Maintaining your Dodge vehicle means staying on top of routine tasks, and one of the simplest yet most essential is replacing your key fob battery. A dead key fob battery can be a real inconvenience, leaving you unable to remotely lock or unlock your doors, or even start your vehicle in some cases. If you’re wondering “what battery does a Dodge key fob take?”, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your Dodge key fob battery and how to replace it yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
Understanding Your Dodge Key Fob Battery
Most Dodge key fobs, across various models and years, utilize a common type of battery: the CR2032 3V lithium coin cell battery. This battery is widely available at most drugstores, supermarkets, auto parts stores, and online retailers. It’s a small, flat, round battery known for its long life and reliability in low-power devices like key fobs.
While the CR2032 is the most common, it’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual for the specific battery type recommended for your Dodge model and year. You can also often find the battery type printed inside the key fob itself once you open it.
Knowing the right battery is crucial, but recognizing when you need a replacement is equally important. Here are some common signs that indicate your Dodge key fob battery is getting weak and might need replacing soon:
- Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your vehicle than usual for the key fob to work.
- Inconsistent Operation: The buttons on your key fob become less responsive, requiring multiple presses.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some newer Dodge models may display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.
- No Response: In the most obvious case, your key fob simply stops working altogether.
If you experience any of these signs, it’s time to consider a battery replacement. Fortunately, changing your Dodge key fob battery is a straightforward process you can easily do at home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Dodge Key Fob Battery
Replacing your Dodge key fob battery is a simple DIY task that generally takes just a few minutes. The process is similar for most Dodge key fob styles, but there might be slight variations depending on whether you have a newer “hands-free” fob or an older style. Here’s a general guide that covers both types:
Tools You’ll Need:
- New CR2032 Battery: Purchase a fresh CR2032 battery. Consider buying from reputable brands for longer life.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: A small flathead screwdriver, a plastic pry tool (like those used for electronics repair), or even the emergency key from your fob will work.
- Phillips Head Screwdriver (Possibly): Some older Dodge key fobs may have a small Phillips head screw.
Steps to Replace the Battery:
-
Locate and Remove the Emergency Key: Most Dodge key fobs have a mechanical emergency key that slides out or is released by a small lever. Find this lever (usually on the back or bottom of the fob) and release the emergency key. Set the key aside.
-
Open the Key Fob Casing: This is where the process can slightly differ depending on your fob style.
-
For Most Modern Fobs (Without Screws): Look for a small slot or seam on the fob casing, usually where the emergency key was located. Insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into this slot. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob. Work your way around the seam if needed until the case pops open. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic.
-
For Older Fobs (Potentially With Screws): Flip the fob over to the side opposite the buttons. Look for a tiny Phillips head screw. If present, use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove this screw. Once the screw is removed, you can usually pry the two halves of the fob apart using the same slot method described above.
-
-
Access the Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the internal electronics and the battery. The CR2032 battery is typically held in place by small clips or within a battery holder.
-
Remove the Old Battery: Carefully note the orientation of the old battery – specifically, which side is facing up (usually the positive “+” side). Use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to gently slide or lift the old battery out of its housing.
-
Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Make sure the “+” side is facing the correct way (match it to the orientation you noted or look for “+” markings in the battery compartment). Press the battery firmly into place until it’s securely seated.
-
Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap closed. If you removed a Phillips head screw, replace and tighten it.
-
Replace the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
-
Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working correctly. Lock and unlock your doors remotely to confirm the new battery is functioning.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your Dodge key fob battery. You’ve saved yourself a trip to the service center and ensured your key fob is ready to keep you securely connected to your vehicle. Remember to properly dispose of the old battery according to local regulations for electronic waste.
