How to Replace Key Fob Batteries
If your car has keyless entry, you have a little remote with a lock and unlock button (called a key fob) which is powered by a small lithium button battery. Those batteries usually last 2-4 years, depending on use, so I'm going to show you how to replace key fob batteries.
In this video, I show you how to open and replace batteries in two different styles of key fobs — from a 2012 Honda Pilot and a 2011 Toyota Prius — but the process is the same for other model years and most other cars. If yours is very different and you can't figure out how it opens, search YouTube for your specific car. Chances are, someone has already done it for you.
The worst case scenario – if you can't figure out how to open your key fob, or can't find the battery, or just don't want to be bothered – is to have the car dealer change it for you. I've personally never done this so I have no idea how much this would cost. Please comment below if you have.
Buying Batteries
I take pride in being a guy who can fix anything… quickly. I guess the Boy Scout in me likes to always be prepared. The first time I'm without a battery, I buy more than one because I know I'll need another one in the future. Lithium batteries have a very long shelf life so I don't worry about them going stale.
You can find the most common key fob batteries at home centers and hardware stores. Depending on the size, you may be lucky and get two in a card for around $5.00. If you really need it changed quickly, that may be your only choice. But if you can wait a week or two, eBay is a much better alternative. As of this writing, I can get a card of five batteries for about $5.00 with free shipping and no tax. The more batteries you have on-hand, the faster you can fix things for your family. And that will further solidify your reputation for being “handy”!
This was actually useful!