How Do I Change the Batteries in My Key Fob?

Photo by Brett Jordan from Pexels

Never lose the key fob for your car because key fobs are expensive and run over $200.00 for a replacement. Your dealership may charge you more money if you buy a new key fob through them. If your key fob does not work, the batteries probably need replacing.

The following are step-by-step instructions on how to replace the batteries in your key fob.

If you do not know what kind of battery your key fob has, you will have to open the fob to see what markings the round battery has on it so that you can buy another. Key fob batteries last about five years or less, depending on how much you use the key fob.

If you need to change the battery in your key fob, it would be best to use a small flat-tipped screwdriver. Lay your key fob down on a flat surface and find the notch on the fob.

You will look for a small gap at the top of the key fob. Does your key fob have an emergency key? You may have to find the place where the emergency key slides out.

Slip the screwdriver into the slot and pry the fob open. Be careful not to use too much pressure as you could break the case.

Once open the case, you can identify what kind of battery you need to buy to replace the old battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with the new battery and gently close up the key fob by pushing the side together.

Another thing to be aware of is the sensor found in a key fob case. A tiny sensor lies in the original key fob case from the dealer. Some sensors are set inside the case next to the key. Some car brand owner manuals do not tell you about the sensor.

Buying a new case means that you must remove the sensor and put it in the new case. If you do not do this and try to start your car, the car will not start.

Some sensors within the key fob housing cannot be removed because they are built into the case. In this instance, you will not be able to use the new case. If you want a new key fob, you must order one, and they are expensive.

 

Keyless Entry Systems

Keyless car entries are highly convenient when they are working. When these keyless remotes stop working, they give you grief. These remotes do have batteries that may die at some point. If this were to happen, you have a few options.

  • Get inside your car and hold the dead remote against the driver’s door handle and pull. There may be just enough power in the remote to open the door.
  • Does your key fob have a small mechanical key hidden inside the remote? If the remote has this key, you must figure out how to release the key. Some remotes provide a button release to press to open the case. The driver’s door must have a manual lock.
  • Look around your steering column for a key slot. Do you see any panels that you can push or pop open?
  • Push the start button with the key fob.
  • Check to see if your manufacturer gave you a built-in backup system.

These steps are temporary so that you can get your car to the store to buy a battery. Most car part stores stock a range of batteries appropriate for your key fob. Examine your key fob for a number-letter series.

If you do not find this number-letter series, you must open up the remote to get the identification number off your current battery.

Every vehicle brand has different ways to open key fobs. The majority of the time, all you must do open the battery cover.

Some remotes have a small screw holding the case in place, and all you have to do is remove the screw to get to the battery. If your remote has a sliding key, there should be a button on top. Press the button, and the key springs out.

If your remote has a slot, use a screwdriver or coin to pry the case apart. If there is no slot, try to slip a screwdriver into the case’s seam to pry it open. Never force the case open as you could break the case.

When you get the fob open, all else is easy. Pop out the old battery and replace it with a new battery the same way the old battery sat. For example, if the battery’s writing was on the underside, make sure the battery’s writing is not topside.

 

Are You Having Problems with Your Current Key Fob? Get Replacements from the Professionals at Express Locksmith

Do you need a new key fob, or do you need a replacement? We can help you decide which you need. If your key fob is not working when you press the buttons on it, contact us for help.

Express Locksmith serves Houston, Texas, and over twenty surrounding areas. We are a seasoned locksmith company offering 24/7 services. Part of our expertise is key fobs. Not all locksmiths are trained or have the skill to work on key fobs.

We are a licensed, insured, and bonded, seasoned locksmith company with years of service to the Houston, Texas, community. We also serve over twenty counties surrounding Houston.

Our clients include residential homeowners, commercial businesses, landlords, real estate companies, banks, medical facilities, and anyone who may need locksmith work.

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