Q: How do I replace the battery in my key?

asked by on December 14, 2015

How do I replace the battery in my key?

Your key is electronic. That’s what allows the remote to communicate with the various systems on the car. Like all batteries, it will eventually die and need to be replaced. It should last for several years between replacements, though. Here’s what to do if your remote isn’t working anymore:

  • Make sure you have a replacement battery. For a standard key and remote, you’ll need a CR2016. For a smart key system, you’ll need a CR1632.

Battery Replacement for a Standard Key

  1. Use a flathead screwdriver and pry the two halves of the key/remote apart.

  2. Flip the key over and locate the module. Remove it.

  3. Remove the old battery.

  4. Replace the new battery (make sure to have the + sign facing upwards).

  5. Close the battery and make sure the remote works.

Battery Replacement for a Smart Key

  1. Remove the mechanical key insert from the remote.

  2. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry apart the cover.

  3. Locate the battery. Remove it.

  4. Replace it with the new battery. Make sure the + sign is up.

  5. Close the remote.

  6. Make sure the remote works.

Tips

You may need to replace the remote battery if the remote stops working, or if you notice the range is reduced.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Orange fluid leaking from radiator.
GM Dexcool antifreeze is orange in color, so you have a coolant leak. Performing a cooling system pressure test will pinpoint the origin of the leak. A trained professional, like one from YourMechanic, will be able to perform this test...
I hear a clink sound when I put my car in reverse
My guess is that you have a bad transmission mount or motor mount (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-long-do-engine-motor-mounts-last). You probably noticed this more when the engine is cold because the idle is higher. A trained professional, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able...
Knocking noise - 2005 Scion xA
Hello. Assemblies such as power steering pumps can often be rebuilt or repaired, but the economics of it are usually only attractive to car enthusiasts or hobbyists. That is, IF there is something wrong with the pump, it is much...
Would a car that is out of alignment cause gas pedal vibration?
What is causing your pedal to vibrate should not be related to your alignment issue. Although your alignment issue may cause a substantial amount of vibration, this would be generally limited to the outer extremities of the car and not...
My car stalled and will not start.
Hi Heidi, Unfortunately, Your Mechanic does not provide engine replacement services. However, we do not know if your engine truly needs to be replaced. As such, a proper inspection by a qualified technician will uncover what is causing the no...
after accident in passenger rear door car won't start
Hi there. In the event that there is a car crash, the inertia switch will activate and cut the fuel system off to keep the fuel system from pumping fuel to prevent any fires. Check the switch, either under the...
New brake pads are making a repeating/clicking noise while in reverse.
The brake pads may not have been cleaned off good. The pads may need to be replaced if they got grease soaked. The brakes should be inspected for rotor burnish from the pads grease that was on the pads. You...
2012 Malibu won’t start. Unplug the fuel pump relay for 10 sec it starts right up. Got new relay started 4 2 wks.
You may want to check to be sure the fuel pressure regulator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pressure-regulator-replacement) is working properly. The fuel pressure regulator is a device which controls the pressure of fuel supplied to the fuel injectors on an engine. This works by...
I have 2014 Dodge Journey and the brake, ABS , engine, and traction lights are on. Also my brake pedal won't depress so i can put
With all the different lights on it would be hard to know why it will not start without testing the system for codes in the different modules. I can suggest you have a mechanic like one from YourMechanic come to...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda CR-V
The The fourth generation Honda CR-V was unveiled in 2012 with a total redesign. One of America’s favorite compact SUVs got a new look and a lot of great new features, including an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, as well as...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Battery Temperature Sensor
Common signs include engine surging, low battery voltage, and an illuminated Battery Light.
Top Automotive News & Stories: September 24-September 30
Angry Civic Type R, 350 special edition Ferraris, Infiniti variable compression tech, Mercedes' electric future, and more.