Is your car key fob acting up? Finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times to get a response from your vehicle? It might be more than just an inconvenience; it’s likely a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing. Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and the solution is usually simple and affordable.
Many car owners face this common issue, and the good news is that replacing your key fob battery is often a straightforward DIY task. While dealerships and auto repair shops can certainly handle this for you, understanding where to source a new battery yourself can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the right battery for your key fob and where to purchase it.
DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement: What You’ll Need
Replacing your key fob battery at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple tools, you can have your key fob working like new in no time. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- A Small Pry Tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for carefully opening the key fob case.
- The Correct Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use common coin cell batteries, often CR2032, which are widely available. We’ll discuss how to identify the correct type shortly.
- Precision Screwdriver (potentially): Some key fobs use tiny screws to secure the case. A small Phillips head screwdriver (around 1.4mm to 2.4mm) might be necessary.
- Tweezers: These are helpful for removing the old battery and inserting the new one, especially in tight spaces.
- Your Smartphone (Optional but Recommended): Taking pictures during the process, especially before removing the old battery, can be a lifesaver when reassembling the fob.
The replacement process itself is generally quick and easy:
- Open the Key Fob Case: Use your pry tool to gently open the plastic casing of your key fob. Most fobs have a small notch to help you get started. Work your tool around the seam, carefully separating the two halves.
- Remove the Old Battery: Once open, locate the battery. It’s usually a small, round coin cell battery. Use tweezers or your fingertip to carefully remove the old battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) – this is where your reference photo can be handy!
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation.
- Close the Key Fob Case: Snap the two halves of the key fob case back together until they are securely closed.
Identifying the Right Key Fob Battery: Size Matters
Before you rush out to buy a new battery, it’s crucial to determine the correct type for your specific key fob. Using the wrong battery can prevent your key fob from working or even damage it.
The good news is that many key fobs indicate the battery type directly on the case itself. Look closely at the back of your key fob or inside the battery compartment for embossed markings. You might see codes like CR2032, CR2025, CR2016, CR1632, or others.
Common key fob battery types include:
- CR2032: This is one of the most common types, often used in a wide range of car makes and models.
- CR2025 & CR2016: These are similar to CR2032 but are thinner. While sometimes interchangeable in a pinch, it’s best to use the exact specified type for optimal performance and fit.
- CR1632 & CR1620: Smaller diameter batteries often found in more compact key fobs.
If you can’t find the battery type on your key fob, don’t worry. Carefully open the fob as described earlier and take a look at the battery already inside. The battery type is usually printed directly on the battery itself.
Keep in mind that even within the same car manufacturer, different models or years can use different batteries. For example, while many Honda key fobs use CR2032 batteries, some, like certain Honda CR-V models, might require a CR1250. Some key fobs, like those for Ford Mustangs, even require two batteries.
Where to Buy Key Fob Batteries: Your Options
Now that you know what battery you need, the next question is, “where can I get a battery for my key fob?”. Thankfully, key fob batteries are readily available in numerous locations:
-
Retail Stores: Drugstores, supermarkets, and general retailers like Walmart or Target almost always carry a selection of coin cell batteries, including the common CR2032 and similar types. This is often the most convenient and quickest option for many people.
-
Auto Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts are excellent places to find key fob batteries. Staff here are usually knowledgeable about car parts and can help you locate the correct battery if you’re unsure. They may also offer battery installation services, though doing it yourself is typically easy.
-
Battery Specialty Stores: Stores specializing in batteries, like Interstate All Battery Center, offer a wide selection of batteries, including those for key fobs. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice and ensure you get the right battery type and quality. They may also offer key fob replacement services and spare key fobs. You can find Interstate All Battery Center locations near you.
-
Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and other online marketplaces are vast resources for key fob batteries. You can often find batteries in bulk or at slightly lower prices online. However, be sure to check seller reviews and ensure you are buying from a reputable source to guarantee battery quality and freshness.
-
Car Dealerships (Less Recommended for Just Batteries): While dealerships will certainly sell you a key fob battery and offer replacement service, it’s generally the most expensive option. Dealerships are best reserved for situations where you need key fob programming or have a more complex issue beyond battery replacement.
When to Consider Professional Help
While replacing a key fob battery is usually a simple DIY task, there are times when seeking professional help is advisable:
- If you’re uncomfortable opening the key fob: If you’re worried about damaging your key fob or are not comfortable with small electronics, it’s best to have a professional do it.
- If your key fob still doesn’t work after battery replacement: If a new battery doesn’t solve the problem, there may be a more complex issue with your key fob, such as programming problems or internal damage. In these cases, a dealership or a key fob specialist can diagnose and repair or replace your key fob.
- If you need a spare key fob: If you’ve lost your key fob or want a spare, Interstate All Battery Center and some other locations offer key fob replacement and programming services at more affordable prices than dealerships. You can check for spare car key fobs at Interstate All Battery Center.
Replacing your key fob battery is a common maintenance task that you can easily handle yourself. Knowing where to get a battery for your key fob – from local retail stores to specialty battery centers like Interstate All Battery Center – empowers you to keep your car accessible and your key fob working reliably without unnecessary expense or hassle.
