Last Updated on January, 2025
Is your car key fob acting up? It might just need a new battery!
Luckily, replacing a car key battery is simple, and it doesn’t require a trip to the mechanic.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to replace your car key battery. From identifying the right battery to testing your key.
Let’s get started on keeping your car key fob working smoothly!
Quick Summary
- Before replacing the battery, it’s crucial to identify the correct type of car key battery by checking the fob or user manual. Most key fobs use coin-cell batteries like CR2032.
- Use a small screwdriver to open the compartment, remove the old battery, and insert the new one. Taking a picture before removing the old battery helps ensure you replace it correctly.
- After closing the compartment, test the key fob to ensure it’s working. If it doesn’t work, recheck the battery position or seek professional help if the fob is damaged.
Steps to Replace Your Car Key Battery
Step 1: Identify the Type of Your Car Key Battery
When your car key fob isn’t working, it might mean it needs a new battery inside. But you have to get the right one! Look closely at your key fob – the plastic part that holds your car key. It usually says what kind of battery it needs.
Once you know that, you can buy the right replacement battery.
Most key fobs use a flat round battery, like the ones in watches. You can find these car key fob batteries at the locksmith or the drugstore, and they’re not expensive.
Sometimes, the back of the key fob or the inside of the key sleeve has letters that show what battery size you need. It’s important to know this before you start so you don’t get the wrong batteries.
For example, a Honda CR-V needs a CR1250 battery, while most use the CR2032 coin cell. And some cars need more than one battery, like the Ford Mustang key fob, which requires two.
You can take a look at the user manual or do an online search to find out the type of your key fob battery quickly.
Alright, you found out the specific type of car key battery you need. Let’s get into step two now.
Step 2: Find the Battery Compartment and Open it Up
Find where the battery compartment is on your key. Often, it’s on the back of the car key, but some keys might have a sliding cover or a hidden spot. Look closely to find out how to get to the battery.
Use the right and necessary tools, like a small Phillips head screwdriver or a small flathead screwdriver, to open the battery compartment carefully. There’s usually a slot or a groove where you can insert the tool.
Pry your car key fob open gently, and be careful not to use too much force to avoid damaging it.
Every car key fob can be different inside, even if they’re from the same car. Before you take out the battery, snap a photo of the key fob case. This way, if anything gets mixed up, you can check the photo to see how it should look.
Also, taking a picture helps you remember which way the battery should go in – with the positive side up or negative side up. This simple step can save you from mistakes later on.
Step 3: Pull Out Your Old Battery and Insert the New One
Changing your key fob battery is easy – it’s like swapping a small coin. You can use tools like a butter knife or flathead screwdriver to lift the old battery out gently.
Some fobs have clips holding the battery. If yours does, lift these clips with a screwdriver correctly. Go slow to avoid breaking them.
Now, replace it with a new one.
As you should replace it in the same position, check which way the new battery should go in using the picture you’ve taken. Usually, you’ll find this info on the back of the fob’s cover or inside the battery compartment.
Step 4: Close the Battery Compartment and Test the Key
Now that your new battery is in, it’s time to close up the battery compartment. Just line up the cover and push it back into place. If your key has screws, secure the battery compartment with the right screwdriver to tighten them.
Next, point your key fob at your car, and press a button to test it. If it still doesn’t work, you might have put the battery in the wrong way. No worries – just open it back up, flip the battery, and try again correctly.
NOTE: Usually, you don’t need to reprogram your key fob after changing the battery.
If your fob still doesn’t work, it might be broken. In that case, call a locksmith or your car dealership for help. Or, if you have an older car, you can buy a blank replacement key fob online and program it yourself.
Relevant contents:
Conclusion
Great job on changing your car key battery!
Now, your device should work smoothly again. If you ever face other problems with your key, it’s best to ask a professional for help. They can fix tricky issues and make sure everything’s working perfectly.
Keep your car key handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a pro if you need more help.
Thanks for following along, and happy driving!
