Features like remote start can be great on a hot summer day in Bakersfield. However, the anticipation of getting inside a cool car can quickly fade when you discover your key fob is dead. The good news is that replacing the battery only takes a few minutes and saves you a trip to the dealership. Here at Jim Burke Forde in Bakersfield, California, we’ve put together this quick and easy guide to help you replace your key fob’s battery, so grab the necessary tools, and we’ll walk you through how to swap that battery.
Signs That Your Ford Key Fob Battery Needs Replacement
New Ford models have dash alerts that indicate the battery status of your key fob, but otherwise, your fob will give you warning signs that the battery is about to die. Things to look out for are a decrease in its working range, buttons needing multiple presses, and a dim or nonexistent light. Additionally, keyless entry or push-button start problems are usually due to an old or failing battery.
Ford key fob batteries typically last two to five years, varying with usage and weather conditions. Some may need replacing after eighteen months, while others last more than five years. When you notice warning signs, replace your key fob battery right away.
Tools and Materials Needed for Battery Replacement
Replacing your key fob’s battery is simple, but having the proper tools to hand will help prevent case scratches. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New battery — CR2032, CR2025, or CR2450
- Small flat screwdriver or plastic pry tool
- Clean, lint-free cloth and gloves
Identifying the Right Battery Type for Your Ford Key Fob
Using the wrong battery can waste time and potentially damage your key fob. Most Ford fobs use a single three-volt lithium coin cell battery, with the newer smart keys using CR2450 batteries. To find the correct type of battery, look in your owner’s manual under the key section. If you don’t have a manual, remove the old battery and find the type printed on it, or look inside the fob case or on the fob itself. If you’re still unsure, contact us at Jim Burke Ford, and we’ll look it up according to your vehicle’s model and year.
Additional Tools You Might Need
Optional items, such as a jeweler’s screwdriver set to help with tiny screws, can make tricky battery replacements easier. If you struggle with small print, a magnifying glass works brilliantly. When working with sensitive electronics, an antistatic strap prevents accidental zaps, and for testing your new battery, a simple battery tester is all you need. You probably won’t need all these tools, but having them handy can save a lot of frustration.
Step-By-Step Instructions To Replace the Battery
After wiping down your fob casing and getting your tools ready, replace your battery by following these simple steps:
- Find the seam or button on your fob’s edge.
- Use a screwdriver or pry tool to pry it apart.
- Note how the old battery sits and which side faces up.
- Remove the old battery without touching other components.
- Insert the new battery correctly (usually + side up).
- Press the halves together gently until they click.
- Test all buttons to verify they work.
Work on a clean surface with good lighting and avoid touching battery contacts with bare fingers. Handle your new battery carefully, on the edges only, as your fingerprints contain oils that can mess with the battery’s contact points. These simple steps stop dirt from getting inside and causing problems. There’s also no need to worry about reprogramming — Ford fobs retain their settings after battery changes.
Testing Your Key Fob After Replacement
To verify that the replacement was successful, test each button individually by locking and unlocking the trunk and the doors. Watch for flashing lights and listen for the locks responding. Test from various distances, as a new battery should work from approximately 30 feet away.
With keyless entry, keep the fob in your pocket, and your doors should open when you grab the handle. In push-button start cars, the vehicle should detect your fob when you’re seated. Remember to check additional features such as the remote start or power liftgates.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, issues can pop up even when you do everything right. Check that you’ve inserted the battery correctly and that the case is properly closed, as gaps can disrupt circuits. For range problems, move away from Wi-Fi, garage door openers, and other electronics to eliminate interference.
If buttons are working intermittently, clean the contacts, and if the car isn’t responding, try resetting the fob using your manual’s instructions. Fast-draining batteries can mean stuck buttons or moisture damage.
Key Fob Not Working After Battery Replacement
If a new battery doesn’t work, try the basics — remove and reinstall it, and check that it sits flat and faces the right way, as tiny misalignments can cause problems. You can also reset your fob using the button combinations found in your manual.
Check the interior of the fob for any broken parts, bent contacts, or dirty spots. If you have a spare fob that works, it may indicate that your main fob is faulty.
Tips To Help Extend Battery Life
A battery’s performance and life span are affected by extreme heat and cold. This can be problematic in Bakersfield, where extreme summer heat can significantly increase the temperature inside your car. Keep your fob at room temperature whenever possible, and remember, accidental pocket presses waste power.
Don’t keep keys near phones or other electronics, as their signals can drain your battery. Moisture ruins electronics, so keep your fob dry — a silicone cover can protect it from water, accidental drops, and extreme weather. Buy quality batteries from good stores, as the extra cost often means a longer life span.
When To Seek Professional Help for Key Fob Issues
If you’ve tried everything and are still having problems, it makes sense to seek expert help. Some repairs need specialized dealer equipment, especially for programming or diagnosing car system issues — sometimes a fob issue is actually linked to your car’s computer system. If there is physical damage, such as a cracked case or water damage, you may need a replacement fob.
For older fobs, replacement often costs less than repairs. A quick call to your local Ford service center or auto locksmith can provide you with the best option. Smart tip: If you have multiple fobs, change their batteries all at once to avoid being stranded with a dead backup when you most need it.
Keeping Your Ford Key Fob in Great Condition
A little care keeps your Ford key fob reliable through years of daily use. Replacing batteries at the first sign of trouble saves you the hassle of rushing to the dealership or being locked out of your car.
Changing batteries at home saves time and money, but don’t be shy about asking for help if something seems off. If your Ford key fob needs replacing or resetting, contact us at Jim Burke Ford in Bakersfield, California, or schedule a service appointment today. Our friendly professional staff will advise you on everything from key fobs to major service needs.
Image by Anrita1705 is licensed with Pixabay License
