Swapping out the battery in your Dodge key fob is a simple procedure that can be completed in just a few minutes. Whether your key fob is acting erratically or has completely stopped functioning, replacing the battery is often the solution. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change the battery in your Dodge key fob.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools. You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver, a new CR2032 coin battery, and a clean cloth. Once you have your tools and battery, you can follow these steps to change the battery in your Dodge key fob:
Gathering Necessary Materials
To ensure a smooth battery replacement process for your Dodge key fob, it is essential to gather the necessary materials beforehand. Here’s a comprehensive list to guide you:
Essential Tools
- Flathead screwdriver: A small, flathead screwdriver is essential for prying open the fob’s case without damaging it.
- Replacement battery: Determine the correct battery type for your Dodge key fob. Refer to the owner’s manual or consult with an automotive parts specialist.
Additional Materials
- Soft cloth: A soft, lint-free cloth is useful for cleaning the key fob’s interior and wiping away any debris.
- Cotton swab: A cotton swab can be used to gently clean any corrosion or debris that may have accumulated on the battery contacts.
| Battery Type | Dodge Key Fob Model |
|---|---|
| CR2032 | 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger |
| CR2025 | 2019-2023 Dodge Charger |
Identifying the Key Fob Battery
Determining the battery type used in your Dodge key fob is crucial to ensure you have the right replacement. Here’s a detailed guide to help you identify the correct battery:
- Check the Key Fob Manual: Refer to the owner’s manual of your Dodge vehicle, which typically provides specific information about the battery type used in the key fob.
- Examine the Battery Compartment: Open the battery compartment of the key fob. In most cases, there will be a small symbol or engraving indicating the battery type. This symbol usually resembles a battery with a positive (+) and negative (-) sign. Additionally, the battery’s physical dimensions and shape can provide clues about its type.
- Use a Battery Tester or Multimeter: A battery tester or multimeter can accurately determine the voltage and charge level of your key fob battery. Insert the probes of the tester into the battery compartment and read the display to identify the battery type based on its voltage output.
- Refer to the Internet or Battery Store Database: Many online resources and battery store databases allow you to search for the correct battery type for your Dodge key fob by providing the vehicle’s make, model, and year. These databases often provide detailed information about the battery’s voltage, dimensions, and compatibility.
Here is a table summarizing the most common battery types used in Dodge key fobs:
| Battery Type | Description |
|---|---|
| CR2032 | A 3-volt lithium coin cell battery, commonly used in older Dodge key fobs. |
| CR2025 | A 3-volt lithium coin cell battery, smaller in size than CR2032 and found in newer Dodge key fobs. |
| CR2450 | A 3-volt lithium coin cell battery, similar in size to CR2025 but with a higher capacity. |
Removing the Key Fob Cover
To begin the battery replacement process, you’ll need to remove the cover of your Dodge key fob. Here’s a detailed guide to help you do this safely and effectively:
-
Locate the Key Release Button:
Most key fobs have a small button located on the side or bottom that allows you to release the key from the fob. Locate this button and press it to detach the key from the fob.
-
Pry Open the Fob:
Once the key is removed, use a thin pry tool, such as a small flathead screwdriver or a spudger, to carefully insert into the seam between the fob cover and the body of the fob. Gently pry open the cover, starting from the corner or edge of the fob.
-
Disconnect the Battery:
Inside the fob, you’ll find a small battery held in place by a metal clip or a plastic bracket. Use tweezers or a small tool to gently lift the battery out of its compartment. Be careful not to short-circuit the battery by touching both terminals simultaneously.
Make note of the orientation of the old battery and ensure that the new battery is inserted in the same direction.
Battery Type Common Dodge Fob Models CR2025 Durango, Charger, Ram, Challenger CR2032 Journey, Caravan, Avenger, Dart
Extracting the Old Battery
Once you have located the battery compartment, it’s time to extract the old battery. Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging the key fob:
- Carefully pry open the battery compartment using a small flathead screwdriver or a key. Insert the tool into the designated slot or indentation and gently pry until the compartment pops open.
- Once the compartment is open, locate the old battery inside. It will typically be a small, round or coin-shaped battery, often labeled as CR2025, CR2032, or similar.
- Use a pair of tweezers or your fingers to gently lift the old battery out of its socket. Be careful not to touch the metal contacts of the battery or the inside of the key fob with your bare hands, as this could cause damage.
- Remove the key from the fob.
- Locate the small button on the back of the fob. Press and hold the button while sliding the fob open.
- Remove the old battery from the fob.
- Insert the new battery into the fob, making sure that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing up.
- Slide the fob back together and make sure that it snaps into place.
| Battery Type | Location | Removal Method |
|---|---|---|
| CR2025 | Inside battery compartment, tucked into a small socket | Use tweezers or fingers to lift it out gently. |
| CR2032 | Underneath a small plastic cover inside the battery compartment | Pry open the plastic cover using a small tool, then lift out the battery. |
Inserting the New Battery
Identifying the Correct Battery:
Refer to the table below to determine the correct battery type required for your Dodge key fob.
| Key Fob Model | Battery Type |
|---|---|
| 2008-2014 Charger | CR2025 |
| 2007-2013 Nitro | CR2032 |
| 2015-2019 Challenger | CR2025 |
| 2011-2023 Durango | CR2025 |
Steps to Insert the New Battery:
1. Open the key fob using the small notch provided.
2. Locate the old battery and carefully remove it using tweezers or a small flathead screwdriver.
3. Note the orientation of the old battery and insert the new one in the same way.
4. Ensure that the positive (+) side of the new battery faces up.
5. Gently press down on the new battery to ensure it is securely seated. Avoid using excessive force while inserting or removing the battery, as it can damage the key fob’s components.
Reassembling the Key Fob
1. Align the two halves of the key fob, ensuring that the battery compartment is facing up.
2. Gently press on the top and bottom buttons simultaneously to reattach the fob’s body.
3. Apply firm pressure until the buttons click into place and the fob is fully assembled.
4. Slide the key into the designated slot, aligning the metal teeth with the groove inside the fob.
5. Insert a small, flat-head screwdriver or key into the hole on the bottom of the fob to release the trunk key.
6. Testing the Key Fob
a. Press a button on the fob to test its functionality.
b. If the fob does not work, double-check the battery installation and ensure the fob is fully assembled.
c. If the fob still malfunctions, contact a Dodge dealership for assistance.
7. To replace the trunk key, insert it into the designated slot on the bottom of the fob and push until it clicks into place.
8. Your Dodge key fob should now be successfully reassembled and ready for use.
Verifying Battery Replacement
To ensure the successful replacement of your Dodge key fob battery, it is crucial to verify the battery type. The battery model number is typically printed on the battery itself. If you encounter difficulties in identifying the battery type, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or visit an authorized Dodge dealership for assistance.
For reference, here is a compatibility table for common Dodge key fob batteries:
| Vehicle Model | Key Fob Battery Type |
|---|---|
| Dodge RAM (2019-present) | CR2032 |
| Dodge Charger (2015-present) | CR2025 |
| Dodge Challenger (2015-present) | CR2025 |
| Dodge Durango (2014-present) | CR2032 |
| Dodge Journey (2011-present) | CR2025 |
Tips for Extending Battery Life
To extend the battery life of your Dodge key fob, consider these tips:
1. Avoid Repeated Pressing
Excessive clicking of the buttons can drain the battery prematurely. Use the key fob only when necessary.
2. Keep It Dry
Moisture can corrode the battery and damage the circuitry. Avoid exposing the key fob to water or humidity.
3. Store It Properly
When not in use, keep the key fob in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
4. Remove the Battery When Unused
If you won’t be using the key fob for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent power loss.
5. Use High-Quality Batteries
Investing in quality batteries designed for key fobs ensures longer battery life.
6. Check for Loose Connections
Loose connections can create resistance and drain the battery. Regularly inspect the contacts for any damage or looseness.
7. Clean the Battery Terminals
Dirt and corrosion on the battery terminals can impede conductivity. Clean them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
8. Reduce Signal Interference
Keeping the key fob close to other electronic devices, such as cell phones, can interfere with the signal and drain the battery. If possible, store the key fob separately.
| Battery Type | Approximate Battery Life |
|---|---|
| CR2025 | 2-3 years |
| CR2032 | 3-5 years |
Common Battery Issues and Troubleshooting
Dead or weak batteries are the most common cause of malfunctioning key fobs. Here are some troubleshooting tips for addressing battery issues:
1. Check the Battery
Locate the battery compartment in your key fob. Once opened, inspect the battery for corrosion, leakage, or damage. If any of these are present, replace the battery immediately.
2. Inspect the Battery Compartment
Examine the battery compartment for any signs of corrosion or debris. Clean it with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to ensure proper contact between the battery and terminals.
3. Test the Battery Voltage
Using a multimeter, measure the voltage of the battery. A healthy battery should read between 2.8V and 3.3V. If it falls below this range, it needs to be replaced.
4. Clean the Terminals
Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the battery terminals. This removes any oxidation or debris that may interfere with contact.
5. Check the Wiring
Inspect the wires connecting the battery to the circuit board for any breaks or damage. If any are found, repair them accordingly.
6. Reset the Key Fob
If the above troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, try resetting the key fob. Refer to your vehicle’s user manual for instructions on how to do this.
7. Check for Key Fob Range
If the key fob is only working within a short range, it could indicate a weak battery or a problem with the receiver in your vehicle.
8. Test the Other Key Fob
If you have a spare key fob, try using it to rule out any issues with your primary key fob.
9. Advanced Troubleshooting
In some cases, more advanced troubleshooting may be required to identify and resolve key fob battery issues. Here are some additional steps:
| Issue | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Fob only works intermittently | Loose battery connection or internal circuit issues |
| Fob buttons become unresponsive | Faulty button contacts or worn-out springs |
| Fob battery drains quickly | Excessive use, faulty battery, or parasitic drain |
Additional Key Fob Maintenance Considerations
In addition to regularly replacing the battery in your Dodge key fob, there are a few other maintenance considerations to keep in mind to ensure its longevity:
1. Keep It Clean:
Dirt and debris can accumulate on the key fob’s buttons and contacts over time, interfering with its functionality. Regularly clean it using a soft, damp cloth.
2. Avoid Extreme Temperatures:
Extreme heat or cold can damage the key fob’s electronics. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or exposing it to freezing temperatures.
3. Avoid Contact with Water:
Water can damage the key fob’s internal components. Keep it dry and avoid submerging it in water.
4. Don’t Drop or Throw It:
Impact can damage the key fob’s delicate components. Treat it with care and avoid dropping or throwing it.
5. Test the Buttons Regularly:
Periodically check the buttons on your key fob to make sure they are working properly. If any buttons are sticking or not responding, clean them with a soft brush.
6. Protect from Radio Frequency Interference (RFI):
Certain electronic devices, such as high-power radios or metal detectors, can emit RFI that can interfere with the key fob’s signal. Keep the key fob away from these devices.
7. Prevent Signal Blocking:
Some materials, such as aluminum foil or thick metal, can block the key fob’s signal. Avoid storing it in places where it may be obstructed.
8. Use a Key Fob Case or Cover:
A protective case or cover can help shield the key fob from scratches, dents, and other damage.
9. Replace the Battery Regularly:
The battery in your Dodge key fob will eventually need to be replaced. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended replacement interval.
10. Consider Getting a Spare Fob:
Having a spare key fob can provide peace of mind in case your primary key fob is lost or damaged. Consider purchasing and programming a spare fob to keep in a safe location.
How To Change Battery In Dodge Key Fob
Changing the battery in a Dodge key fob is a simple and straightforward process. Here are the steps involved:
People Also Ask
What type of battery do I need for my Dodge key fob?
The type of battery you need for your Dodge key fob will depend on the model and year of your vehicle. However, most Dodge key fobs use a CR2025 or CR2032 battery.
How often should I change the battery in my Dodge key fob?
The battery in your Dodge key fob should last for about two to three years. However, if you notice that the fob is not working as well as it used to, you may need to replace the battery sooner.
