Acura Key Fob Battery Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide
An Acura key fob is the device that comes with most modern Acura vehicles that allows you to wirelessly lock, unlock, and start your car. If your Acura key fob has stopped working or has become intermittent, replacing the battery is often the solution. This guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for safely replacing the battery in your key fob. Plus, get answers to frequently asked questions.
Overview: Why Does the Acura Key Fob Battery Need Replacement?
The key fob battery may need replacement if:
- The key fob’s range is decreasing
- The buttons are intermittent or unresponsive
- A warning light shows on the vehicle’s dashboard
- You notice delays in locking/unlocking/starting your car
These issues typically indicate that the battery is running low and failing. Acura key fobs use a small, long-lasting coin cell battery that normally lasts 1-4 years. Extreme weather and frequent use can shorten battery life. Replacing the battery restores functionality, allowing the key fob to reliably control your vehicle from up to 60 feet away again.
Before Replacing the Acura Key Fob Battery
Before replacing the battery, take the following steps:
- Check your key fob user guide for the specific battery type/model needed (usually CR1616 or CR2025 coin cell)
- Purchase a replacement battery – good retailers include Walmart, Target, hardware stores, watch stores, or Batteries Plus. Make sure the new battery matches your current one
- Gather:
- Small Phillips screwdriver or thin tool to pry open the battery cover
- Butter knife, credit card, or guitar pick
- Paper towel
- Rubbing alcohol
Accessing the Acura Key Fob Battery Compartment
Many Acura key fob battery compartments are accessed in the following ways:
For snapping compartments: Carefully use a credit card or guitar pick to wedge into the slot at the top or side of the key fob case and twist to pop it open. Snap compartments should open without needing a tool.
For screw compartments: Use a small screwdriver to remove the tiny screw holding the back cover on. The screw will remain captive in the cover.
Removing the Old Acura Key Fob Battery
Once inside the battery compartment, here’s how to remove the old battery:
- Check for damage or corrosion – carefully clean any worn or dirty-looking contacts using rubbing alcohol
- Pry out the battery by sliding a credit card, guitar pick, or small flat screwdriver under one side
- Avoid forcing or damaging the small copper battery contacts
Installing a New Key Fob Battery
Follow these steps to properly install your replacement battery:
- Check the polarity (+ and – symbols) and match how the old battery was installed
- Gently press the battery down into the compartment, avoid touching contacts directly
- Secure compartment cover – replace any screws or snap securely closed
Reset and Re-Pair Key Fob
After replacing the battery, you must resync your key fob:
- Resetting varies by model – consult your owner’s manual. Most require turning the ignition to ON and pressing any key fob button for 1-5 seconds.
- The dashboard indicator will recognize the key fob again once the reset is complete.
- Use the usual lock/unlock/start functions to test that it is working.
Used Battery Disposal
Batteries can leak dangerous chemicals. Recycle your used key fob battery by dropping it off at a recycling center or hazardous waste disposal. Tape the battery terminals before disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best options for prizing open my key fob case?
The case is designed to snap open. A thin, strong tool like an old credit card, guitar pick, or slotted screwdriver works best. Take care not to crack the case.
My replacement battery does not fit. What size do I need? Cross-reference markings on your old battery to find the correct replacement. Common sizes are CR2025 and CR1616 coin cell batteries.
Why won’t my key fob sync after changing the battery? Follow the re-pairing process in your Acura owner’s manual if the fob doesn’t respond after installing a new battery. Lock/unlock functions should be restored once synced.
Which battery side is positive/negative?
There are small + and – markings. Match the same orientation as the old battery. Putting the new battery backward will prevent the key fob from functioning.
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