Carkeyglobal.com
A car key that suddenly stops working is frustrating. Doors won't open, your car won't respond, and you're literally locked out. In many cases, the cause is simple: a dead battery. Fortunately, you can replace your car key battery yourself. In this guide from Auto-Key.co.uk, you'll learn step by step how that works, what you'll need and when it's better to call for help.
How do you know if your car key battery is dead?
Symptoms of a dead key battery
A dead battery usually shows itself quickly. Pay attention to the following signs:
-The remote control no longer works
-You have to hold the key close to the door or dashboard
-The light on the key is dimly lit or not lit at all
-The central door lock is not responding
-Keyless entry does not work or falters
In modern cars, the key is often linked to the start button. If your car does not start or does not detect a key, it could also be due to a dead battery.
Life of a car key battery
Most button cell batteries in car keys last an average of 1 to 3 years. If your key is older or heavily used (like keyless systems), this may be shorter.
How to replace your car key battery
Step 1: Find out what type of battery you need
Before you begin, you need to know what type of button cell is in your key. Common types are:
-CR2032
-CR2025
-CR1620
-CR2016
You can often find the type on the old battery itself or in your car's manual.
Step 2: Carefully open the key housing
Use a small flat screwdriver, coin or nail to snap open the key housing. Be careful not to damage the housing or circuit board.
Step 3: Replace the battery
Remove the old battery and replace the new one in exactly the same way (note plus and minus sides!). Push the key closed again and test if everything works.
Step 4: Test the key
Check that your key responds remotely again and that the central locking system works properly. In some cases, you may need to resynchronize the key.
Common problems after battery replacement
The key still doesn't work
If your car key still doesn't work after replacing the battery, something else may be going on:
-The battery is not seated properly
-The contacts are dirty or corroded
-The circuit board is damaged
-The key needs to be reprogrammed
Key works, but keyless function does not
Some keys need to be reconnected to the car after replacing the battery. Consult the manual for this or contact a specialist.
When is it better to call in a specialist?
Not all car keys are easy to open or repair. Call in professional help for:
-Glued or welded key housing.
-Damaged buttons or circuit boards
-Keyless entry keys with malfunctions
Brand-specific codes (e.g. BMW, Audi, Mercedes).
At Auto-Sleutel.nl we have all the tools, knowledge and batteries to repair your key quickly and safely. Also take a look at our page:
Alternatives if the key does not open
New key housing
Is your key damaged or can't be opened without breaking it? Then you might consider buying a new key housing. We can transfer your old circuit board into a new housing.
Complete key replacement
If your key really doesn't work anymore, we can deliver and program a new car key. This is cheaper than through the dealer and often arranged the same day.
Prevent problems: tips for longer key use
Replace the battery preventively every 1-2 years
Do not use your key as a key ring or bottle opener
Do not drop your key
Avoid moisture, sand and dirt in the housing
Car key battery replacement? Stop by Auto-Sleutel.nl
Not sure which battery you need? Or would you rather not do it yourself? We are happy to help you in our workshop. You're usually back on the road within 10 minutes with a perfectly working key. Are you sure you can be helped immediately? Then contact our customer service via the chat on our website or by phone .
Our service in brief:
-Fast battery replacement
-No appointment needed
-Only quality batteries
-Batteries for all car brands
-Also key casings and repair
Visit us at or stop by our location in Nieuwerkerk aan den IJssel.