Chevy Key Fob Battery Replacement

Having a key fob that doesn’t work properly due to a low battery can be inconvenient and frustrating. This guide will walk through the complete process of replacing the battery in your Chevy key fob. Properly replacing the small disc battery (often CR2032) can restore functionality and range.

When to Replace the Key Fob Battery

There are a few telltale signs that indicate it’s time to replace the battery in your Chevy key fob:

Reduced range – The key fob remote works only when you are very close to the vehicle. The battery is no longer transmitting strongly enough over normal distances.
Intermittent issues – Sometimes button presses on the fob work to lock/unlock the doors, sometimes not. This flickering performance means the battery is on its last legs.
Warning message – Newer Chevy models may display a warning message in the driver information display indicating the low-key fob battery.

Don’t wait until failure before replacing the battery. Proactively swap it out at the first signs of low power to avoid being inconvenienced by a dead key remote.

What You Need for Replacement

Replacing the battery requires gathering a few affordable, easily-obtainable items:

Correct replacement battery – Chevy key fobs predominantly use a CR2032 coin cell battery. The battery type and voltage should be printed on the old battery or inside the fob casing.
Small Phillips screwdriver – For prying, open the key casing if closed with screws.
Old credit card or plastic pry tool – Useful for separating the key housing safely once opened. Insert carefully to avoid damaging internal components.
Replacement battery – CR2032 or equivalent based on your model. Purchase from a store or online.

An optional item is a keyring to hold the loose fob pieces together while working on it if the housing doesn’t stay clipped.

How to Safely Open the Key Fob Housing

The first step is to access the internal circuit board and battery compartment. Key fob casing designs vary, but there is usually a small seam or one or more miniature Phillips head screws securing the two halves.

If screws are present, use the small Phillips screwdriver to carefully loosen them until the casing separates into two pieces.

For snap-fit casings with no visible screws, locate the perimeter seam line. Wedge the thin credit card or plastic opening tool into this seam gap. Slowly twist and pry in different spots to release the internal tabs holding the case together until it pops free.

Take care not to excessively flex or stress points on the circuit board during this step. Work patiently around the entire housing edge.

Removing the Dead Battery

Once able to access the battery and circuit board, take note of the position and orientation of the old battery. There may be + / – markings visible indicating polarity.

Use the plastic pry tool to gently lift the battery free from its slot. Try not to forcefully yank as small wires soldered to contact points could get accidentally pulled loose.

Clear any corrosion or debris from the battery compartment area with some isopropyl alcohol and a cotton swab if buildup is present before inserting the new battery.

Installing the New Key Fob Battery

Orient the new CR2032 battery according to the indicated + / – polarity and lower it into position in the plastic battery slot. The positive pole should face up in most models.

Gently press down to snap the replacement battery into place. Avoid excessive side-to-side movement. For batteries with tabs, tuck these fully into the slot recesses.

Double-check that the battery is seated firmly and correctly with regard to positive/negative contacts before proceeding.

Reassembling the Key Fob Housing

With the fresh battery installed and the compartment area cleaned, rejoin the fob casing pieces.

Align the edges precisely and then apply pressure to snap the halves back together around the perimeter. This generally takes firm pressure as the clips are stiff.

Ensure no gaps are visible and the case is fully resealed. Test the key lock/unlock buttons for responsiveness. The remote should now have restored range and reliability.

Re-pairing the Key Fob

In some instances, after a battery swap, the key fob may need to be repaired or resynchronized with the vehicle’s computer system. Refer to the owner’s manual. Often, this involves standing near the vehicle and locking/unlocking doors to reset. The range should now be restored.

Key Fob Battery Replacement Troubleshooting

If replacing the battery does not resolve key fob functionality issues, here is some troubleshooting guidance:

Verify correct CR2032 battery is properly oriented in the compartment slot
Try re-pairing the key fob with the vehicle’s electronic system
Inspect for detached wires or damage during the battery swap process
Consider replacing the key fob unit if issues persist

Tips for Maximizing Battery Life

To avoid premature failure and extend the time between replacements:

Store the key fob away from extreme ambient temperatures
Check the expiration date on replacement batteries for the freshest ones
Purchase quality batteries from leading brands

Properly replacing the battery using the guidance in this Chevy key fob battery replacement tutorial will restore functionality and allow you to delay having to purchase an expensive replacement remote.