How to Change Your Honda Key Fob Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide
Losing access to your Honda because of a dead key fob battery is frustrating. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Honda key fob is a simple task you can usually handle yourself in just a few minutes with a few basic tools. This guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for replacing the battery in various Honda key fob models, ensuring you can get back on the road quickly and without the expense of a dealership visit.
Why Change Your Honda Key Fob Battery Yourself?
While you could take your key fob to a dealership or locksmith, replacing the battery yourself offers several advantages:
* **Cost Savings:** Dealerships often charge a significant markup for a simple battery replacement. Doing it yourself only costs the price of the battery, typically a few dollars.
* **Convenience:** You can perform the replacement at your own pace and on your own schedule, without having to schedule an appointment or wait in line.
* **Simplicity:** The process is generally straightforward and doesn’t require specialized tools or expertise.
* **Empowerment:** Gaining the ability to handle basic car maintenance tasks can be empowering and give you more control over your vehicle.
Identifying Your Honda Key Fob Type
Before you begin, it’s crucial to identify the type of key fob you have. Honda has used several different key fob designs over the years. Common types include:
* **Standard Key Fob (Flip Key):** This type has a physical key that flips out from the fob.
* **Smart Key Fob (Push-Button Start):** This type allows you to start your car with the push of a button, without inserting a key.
* **Older Style Fobs:** Some older Hondas use a more basic, rectangular fob with fewer features.
The steps for replacing the battery vary slightly depending on the key fob type. This guide will cover the most common types.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Regardless of the specific key fob type, you’ll generally need the following tools and materials:
* **New Battery:** The correct battery type is crucial. Most Honda key fobs use a CR2032 battery, but some models may use a CR1620 or other type. Consult your owner’s manual or check the existing battery to confirm the correct type. It is best to use a brand-name battery for longer life and reliability. Look for brands like Panasonic, Sony, or Duracell.
* **Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool:** A small, thin flathead screwdriver or a specialized plastic pry tool is needed to open the key fob casing. Avoid using excessively sharp or large tools, as they could damage the plastic.
* **Soft Cloth (Optional):** A soft cloth can protect the key fob from scratches during the opening process.
* **Owner’s Manual (Recommended):** Your owner’s manual may provide specific instructions and diagrams for your particular key fob model.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Replacing the Battery (Standard Flip Key Fob)
These instructions apply to Honda key fobs with a flip-out physical key.
1. **Locate the Emergency Key Release:** On the back of the key fob, you should find a small release button or switch that allows you to detach the emergency key. This key can be used to manually unlock the car door if the battery is completely dead.
2. **Release the Emergency Key:** Press and hold the release button or slide the switch while simultaneously pulling out the emergency key. Set the key aside.
3. **Locate the Seam or Notch:** With the emergency key removed, you should see a small seam or notch where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. This is where you will insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool.
4. **Carefully Pry Open the Casing:** Insert the tip of the flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the seam or notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as this could damage the plastic. Work your way around the seam, slowly separating the casing until it pops open. If the casing is difficult to open, try using a plastic pry tool to avoid scratching the surface.
5. **Identify the Battery:** Once the casing is open, you will see the battery inside. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. This is important to ensure you insert the new battery correctly.
6. **Remove the Old Battery:** Use the tip of the flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to gently pry the old battery out of its retaining clips or holder. Be careful not to damage the battery contacts.
7. **Insert the New Battery:** Place the new battery into the holder, making sure the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction (matching the orientation of the old battery). The battery should snap securely into place.
8. **Reassemble the Key Fob:** Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Make sure the seam is closed completely and there are no gaps.
9. **Reinsert the Emergency Key:** Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
10. **Test the Key Fob:** Press the buttons on the key fob to test if it’s working properly. You should be able to lock and unlock the car doors remotely. If the key fob still doesn’t work, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the casing is fully closed.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Replacing the Battery (Smart Key Fob – Push-Button Start)
These instructions apply to Honda key fobs used for push-button start vehicles.
1. **Locate the Emergency Key Release:** Similar to the flip key fob, the smart key fob also has an emergency key that can be used to manually unlock the car door. Locate the release button or switch on the back or side of the fob.
2. **Release the Emergency Key:** Press and hold the release button or slide the switch while simultaneously pulling out the emergency key. Set the key aside.
3. **Locate the Seam or Notch (or Screw):** Depending on the model, the smart key fob may have a seam or notch like the flip key fob, or it might have a small screw holding the casing together. Examine the fob carefully to determine how it opens.
4. **If a Seam/Notch is Present: Carefully Pry Open the Casing:** Insert the tip of the flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the seam or notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the casing. Be careful not to apply excessive force. Work your way around the seam, slowly separating the casing until it pops open.
5. **If a Screw is Present: Remove the Screw:** Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw. Store the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
6. **Separate the Casing:** Once the screw is removed, you should be able to gently separate the two halves of the key fob casing.
7. **Identify the Battery:** Once the casing is open, you will see the battery inside. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it.
8. **Remove the Old Battery:** Use the tip of the flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to gently pry the old battery out of its retaining clips or holder. Be careful not to damage the battery contacts.
9. **Insert the New Battery:** Place the new battery into the holder, making sure the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction (matching the orientation of the old battery). The battery should snap securely into place.
10. **Reassemble the Key Fob:** Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together. If there was a screw, replace it and tighten it securely (but not overtighten).
11. **Reinsert the Emergency Key:** Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
12. **Test the Key Fob:** Press the buttons on the key fob to test if it’s working properly. You should be able to lock and unlock the car doors remotely and start the car (if equipped with push-button start). If the key fob still doesn’t work, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the casing is fully closed.
Troubleshooting Tips
* **Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work:** If the key fob doesn’t work after replacing the battery, try these troubleshooting steps:
* **Double-Check Battery Orientation:** Ensure the battery is inserted with the correct polarity (positive side up or down).
* **Clean Battery Contacts:** Use a cotton swab and a small amount of rubbing alcohol to clean the battery contacts inside the key fob. Dirty contacts can prevent the battery from making a good connection.
* **Check for Damage:** Inspect the key fob circuit board for any signs of damage, such as broken components or corrosion.
* **Try a Different Battery:** Although unlikely, the new battery could be defective. Try a different new battery from a different package.
* **Key Fob Reprogramming:** In some cases, after replacing the battery, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed to the car. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reprogram the key fob, or consult a dealership or locksmith.
* **Difficulty Opening the Key Fob:** If you are having trouble opening the key fob casing, try using a plastic pry tool instead of a metal screwdriver to avoid scratching the plastic. Apply gentle, consistent pressure and work your way around the seam.
* **Lost Emergency Key:** If you lose the emergency key, you can usually order a replacement from a Honda dealership. You will need to provide proof of ownership of the vehicle.
* **Key Fob Battery Draining Quickly:** If your key fob battery is draining quickly, it could be a sign of a problem with the key fob itself. Consider consulting a dealership or locksmith for diagnosis and repair.
Important Considerations
* **Battery Type:** Always use the correct battery type for your key fob. Using the wrong battery type can damage the key fob or cause it to malfunction.
* **Environmental Disposal:** Dispose of the old battery properly according to local regulations. Many stores that sell batteries also offer battery recycling programs.
* **Static Electricity:** Avoid touching the circuit board inside the key fob as much as possible, as static electricity can damage electronic components.
* **Owner’s Manual:** Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams for your particular key fob model. The owner’s manual may also provide information on key fob programming and other relevant topics.
* **Water Damage:** Avoid exposing your key fob to water or other liquids. Water damage can cause the key fob to malfunction.
Conclusion
Replacing your Honda key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective task that you can easily do yourself. By following these step-by-step instructions and taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid the expense and inconvenience of a dealership visit and keep your key fob working properly. Remember to identify your key fob type, use the correct battery, and refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions. With a little patience and care, you’ll be back on the road in no time!