How to Remove a Battery From a Car Key: Simple Locksmith Guide
Published Date: Oct 9, 2025
Has your car remote stopped working? Before stressing about costly repairs, consider the most common culprit — a dead key fob battery. The good news? A key fob battery replacement is usually quick, inexpensive, and something you can do yourself once you know the steps. In this blog, Sure Lock & Key shows you how to remove a battery from a car key step by step, so your remote will be working again in minutes.
Before You Start Your Car Remote Battery Change
Getting ready for a car remote battery change? A little prep can save you time and prevent mistakes.
- Check the battery type: Look at the old battery for a number like CR2032 or CR2025 so your replacement is the right fit.
- Be gentle: Key fobs are delicate. Use light pressure when opening the case or removing the battery to avoid cracking the plastic or bending components.
- Clean the contacts: If you see corrosion, a cotton swab and a touch of rubbing alcohol will keep the new battery working properly.
If the process feels tricky or you’d rather not take chances, a professional auto locksmith like Sure Lock & Key can take care of your key fob battery replacement quickly and safely as part of our automotive services.
How to Remove the Battery From a Car Key Fob in 4 Easy Steps
After preparing your remote, the next step is learning how to remove the battery from a car key fob correctly.
- Find the seam: Most car remotes have a thin seam along the edge holding the two halves together.
- Open the casing: Carefully pry it apart using a flathead screwdriver or even a coin.
- Locate the battery: Inside, you’ll see a coin-shaped battery. Pay attention to its orientation — the positive (+) side usually faces up.
- Replace the battery: Remove the old one and slide in the new battery in the same position.
If opening the fob feels too tricky or you’d rather not risk breaking it, a trusted car locksmith can take care of it for you. You can also read our step-by-step guide on how to change a car key battery in our full article on car key battery replacement.
What to Do if Your Car Remote Stopped Working
So, your car remote stopped working even after a fresh car remote battery change. That can be frustrating, but there are a few common reasons it happens. First, make sure the battery is the right type and facing the correct way. Even a small mistake can stop the fob from working. Next, check the contacts inside the remote to be sure they’re not bent or corroded.
If everything looks fine and the remote still isn’t responding, the problem may be reprogramming. This is common with newer cars or if the battery has been dead for too long. Some vehicles allow DIY reprogramming with specific button sequences, but many need special equipment. That’s usually the point when it makes sense to call a car locksmith.
A trusted mobile locksmith can come directly to you, reprogram the fob, and save you the hassle of visiting the dealership. They’ll also check for other hidden problems, including issues caused by aftermarket car keys or internal damage.
Summing Up
Every driver eventually faces a dead remote, which is why knowing how to remove a battery from a car key is such a handy skill. A simple car remote battery change usually solves the issue, but if your fob still refuses to work, there’s no need to spend hours troubleshooting on your own.
Sure Lock & Key has spent decades delivering dependable locksmith services that keep drivers on the road. Whatever the problem, you can count on us to get you moving again.