If you’ve ever had car key troubles, then you know just how frustrating it can be—especially if you’re in a rush and have places to be. Sometimes, these issues involve car key fobs (e.g. smart keys and keyless entry fobs). These mini car remotes are incredibly convenient, but unlike a traditional key, car key fobs have an expiration date; or at least, their batteries do!
As a professional locksmith service provider in Oklahoma City, our team at Okey Locksmith has dealt with countless key fob battery issues over the years. We want to help you get back on the road as soon as possible, so we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common key fob battery FAQs. We hope this information helps you the next time you find yourself dealing with those dreaded car key problems!
What Kind of Battery Does a Key Fob Take?
The kind of battery a key fob can use varies depending on your car model, but generally speaking, key fobs use button cell batteries or small coin batteries. These types of batteries are often used for other gadgets and devices like watches, thermometers, and calculators.
To be even more specific, common types of key fob batteries typically include CR2032, CR2025, and CR2016. However, to be certain, the exact kind of battery can be found on the key fob’s old battery itself, or you can look through the owner’s manual for the information you need.
How Do I Know if My Key Fob Has a Low Battery Level?
To identify if your car key fob battery is running low, keep an eye out for these common symptoms:
- Warning Notification: Some car models notify you when your key fob has a low battery level. You can find these notifications on the dashboard, or you might hear an alert sound indicating that you’re in need of a key fob battery replacement.
- Reduced Range: When your key fob runs low on power, you might have trouble locking or unlocking your car doors from a distance. You might notice that the key fob needs to be physically closer to your car or truck for it to work. This is another sign that your battery might be running too low.
- Battery Indicator: Some car key fobs have battery indicators (often a small LED light) that tell you when the battery is depleted and needs to be replaced.
- Inconsistent Performance: Sometimes, you can easily lock or unlock your doors with the car key fob. Other times, it’s difficult to operate and requires you to repeatedly click the buttons for them to work at all. If your car key fob’s performance has become inconsistent, it can indicate a low battery in need of replacement.
What Happens if the Key Fob Battery Dies?
If your key fob battery suddenly dies, you might not be able to lock/unlock your vehicle. But don’t panic—many key fobs have manual keys hidden inside for this very situation. Aside from that, many vehicles have backup systems that make it possible for you to get the doors open and the engine started even with a dead key fob battery. Of course, the permanent solution is to get a replacement battery for your car key fob as soon as possible.
Can I Replace the Key Fob Battery Myself?
Absolutely! Removing the old battery and replacing it with a new key fob battery is quite simple. Basically, you just have to open the fob, remove the depleted, old battery, and insert the replacement battery into the battery slot. If you encounter any problems while you’re replacing the key fob battery, you can go ahead and check out your car’s owner’s manual for more detailed instructions.
How Do I Know if My Key Fob Needs a New Battery?
You might need a new fob battery if it starts malfunctioning or starts performing less effectively. For example, if you press a button and it has a longer response time, you might want to check the key fob’s battery health to determine if it needs a battery replacement. It’s important to replace the key fob batteries promptly so you get access to the key fob’s functions again.
How Do I Replace the Battery in My Key Fob?
- Buy the Replacement Battery (the right one!): To replace the battery in your car key fob, you have to first purchase the correct battery type. You can find the specific type of battery on the old battery itself or in your car’s owner’s manual. However, the common battery type used for car key fobs is button cell batteries.
- Open Your Car Key Fob: Depending on the model, you may need to use a screwdriver to open your key fob and reveal the battery.
- Remove the Old Battery: Ease the old battery from the slot and properly dispose of it.
- Insert the New Key Fob Battery: Get your new batteries and insert them in their proper place.
- Check if It’s Working: Once the battery is replaced, it’s time to check if the key fob is working properly. Depending on the model of your car key fob, it might have a tiny LED light that would illuminate to tell you that the car key fob has been successfully activated. If your key fob doesn’t have an LED light, just press one of the buttons and wait to see if it works.
Does Leaving Your Key Fob in the Car Drain the Key Fob Battery?
When you leave your car key fob inside your vehicle, its battery level won’t change. The batteries are only drained when you use the key fob, or when the device is malfunctioning. However, if you leave your car key fob in your vehicle during extreme heat or cold for a long time, the extreme temperatures can compromise the battery’s health. So, it’s best not to leave your key fob in the car if you know it might sit there for a while.
Do I Have to Reprogram My Key Fob if I Change the Battery?
No, you usually don’t need to reprogram your key fob after changing the battery. As soon as you replace the dead battery, the key fob should go back to working normally. If your key fob refuses to work even with a new battery, you can consult your vehicle’s manual or contact a professional locksmith for help.
How Often Should I Get a Replacement Battery for My Key Fob?
The general rule of thumb is to replace your key fob’s old battery once every two to three years. However, if your key fob starts performing poorly, or if you notice symptoms of the battery running low, you can get a battery replacement much sooner.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Key Fob Batteries?
It typically costs around $5-$15 to replace your key fob batteries. The price depends on the type of battery you buy, but key fob battery replacements are generally affordable in most places.
What Should I Do if My Key Fob Doesn’t Work Even With a New Key Fob Battery?
If your key fob isn’t working after replacing the battery, double-check the battery’s placement. You can also clean the key fob with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris. If these steps don’t solve the problem, it might be time to search for a “locksmith key fob replacement near me” and call a professional to inspect the device for you.
Where Can I Get a Battery Replacement for My Key Fob?
You can drive to your nearest local store, electronic store, automotive shop, or locksmith shop for car key fob battery replacements. Alternatively, you can also visit local dealerships in your area or check online for new batteries.
How Long Does a Car Key Fob Battery Last?
The typical lifespan of a car key fob battery falls anywhere between two and five years. However, note that the battery can drain faster or slower depending on its usage and based on what type of battery it is.
Can Temperatures Affect My Key Fob Battery Life?
Yes, it’s possible for temperatures to affect your key fob’s battery life. The battery can lose power more quickly or malfunction if it’s exposed to extreme heat or cold. To keep this from happening, avoid leaving your key fob under direct sunlight and next to snow or freezing objects.
Need a Professional? Choose Okey Locksmith for Fast and Expert Assistance!
Searching for “locksmith key fob replacement near me“? Look no further than Okey Locksmith! We offer high-quality locksmith services to the Oklahoma City metro area with a professional team dedicated to meeting all your lock-and-key needs.
Contact us at (405) 703-8943 today for a free consultation!
