Just like any battery-operated device, your Acura key fob relies on a battery to function. When your key fob starts becoming unresponsive or has a decreased range, it’s likely time for a battery replacement. Acura owners often wonder, What Battery Does An Acura Key Fob Use? The good news is that replacing the battery in your Acura key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself.
This guide, brought to you by the experts at keyfobprog.com, will walk you through everything you need to know about your Acura key fob battery. We’ll cover the type of battery required, how to identify which key fob you have, and provide step-by-step instructions for replacing the battery in both Acura keyless remotes and smart keys.
Understanding the right battery for your Acura key fob is the first step to ensuring seamless vehicle access. Let’s dive in and make sure you’re never locked out due to a dead key fob battery!
Identifying Your Acura Key Fob and Battery Type
Before you rush out to buy a new battery, it’s helpful to understand the type of key fob you have and confirm the battery it uses. While most Acura key fobs utilize the same standard battery, knowing your specific fob type can make the replacement process even smoother.
The standard battery for most Acura key fobs is the CR2032 button cell battery. This is a common and readily available 3V lithium battery. You can typically find CR2032 batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and online retailers.
To double-check, you can often find battery information within your Acura owner’s manual. Additionally, visually inspecting your key fob can give you clues about the type you have. Acura key fobs generally fall into two main categories:
- Keyless Remote: This type usually has a traditional key blade that can be detached.
- Smart Key: Smart keys often have a more streamlined design and may feature buttons on the side. They also include a retractable or removable physical key for emergency access.
While both types commonly use the CR2032 battery, the opening mechanism for battery replacement can vary slightly. Let’s explore the replacement process for each type.
Step-by-Step Guide: Acura Key Fob Battery Replacement
No matter which Acura model you drive – be it an Integra, TLX, MDX, or RDX – the battery replacement process for your key fob is generally similar. Here’s how to change the battery in your Acura key fob, depending on the type you own:
Replacing the Battery in an Acura Keyless Remote
If your Acura key fob is a keyless remote, follow these simple steps to replace the battery:
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Remove the Metal Blade Key: Locate the release button or latch on your key fob. Press and hold it to detach the metal blade key. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door.
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Gently Pry Open the Fob: After removing the metal key, you’ll notice a small slot or seam where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. Insert a standard flat-head screwdriver or a thin plastic pry tool into this slot. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the casing.
Prying open an Acura key fob with a screwdriver
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Slide Out the Old Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the battery compartment. The CR2032 battery is typically held in place by small clips. Gently slide out the old battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) for correct installation of the new battery.
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the compartment in the same orientation as the old one. The positive (+) side of the battery should usually face upwards, but double-check the markings in the battery compartment.
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Snap the Fob Back Together: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click confirming they are securely closed.
Replacing the Battery in an Acura Smart Key
For Acura models equipped with a Smart Key, the battery replacement is slightly different but still easy to manage:
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Press Tab and Remove the Metal Key: Similar to the keyless remote, locate the tab or button on your smart key fob that releases the metal emergency key. Press it and remove the key.
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Pry Open the Fob Using the Metal Key: With the metal key removed, you’ll see an opening or slot where the key was housed. Insert the tip of the metal key into this opening. Use the key as a lever to gently pry open the smart key fob.
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Pop Out the Old Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Use a small screwdriver or your fingertip to gently pop out the old CR2032 battery. Again, pay attention to the battery’s orientation.
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Slot in the New Battery: Insert the new CR2032 battery into the battery slot. Ensure the positive (+) side is facing outwards, as indicated in the compartment.
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Press the Key Fob Back Together: Carefully align the two halves of the smart key fob and press them together firmly until you hear two distinct clicks. This ensures the fob is properly sealed.
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Return the Metal Key: Slide the metal emergency key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks into place.
Testing Your Acura Key Fob After Battery Replacement
After replacing the battery in your Acura key fob, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Try the following:
- Lock and Unlock Doors: Use the lock and unlock buttons on your key fob to verify they are functioning and that your car doors respond.
- Remote Start (if applicable): If your Acura is equipped with remote start, test this feature to confirm the new battery is powering all functionalities.
- Panic Button: Press the panic button to ensure it activates your car’s alarm system.
If your key fob functions as expected after these tests, you’ve successfully replaced the battery! If you encounter any issues, double-check that the battery is installed correctly and that it is a fresh CR2032 battery.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
While Acura key fob battery replacement is generally a DIY task, there might be situations where you prefer professional help. Consider contacting your local Acura service center if:
- You are uncomfortable opening the key fob yourself.
- You are unsure about the battery replacement process for your specific Acura model.
- You continue to experience issues with your key fob after replacing the battery.
Acura dealerships and certified technicians have the expertise to assist with any key fob issues and ensure your vehicle’s remote access system is working perfectly.
Replacing your Acura key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you from inconvenience. By knowing what battery does an Acura key fob use (CR2032) and following these steps, you can keep your key fob functioning optimally and enjoy the convenience of keyless entry and remote features.