The humble car key fob – it’s something we all take for granted until it stops working. And when it does, it can be a real inconvenience, especially if you’re stuck outside your car on a cold winter morning or in a hurry to get to work. But have you ever stopped to think about what makes your car key fob tick? Or rather, what makes it tickle? The answer lies in the battery that powers it.
Car key fobs use a type of battery known as a coin cell battery. These batteries are small, round, and flat, with a diameter of around 20-25 millimeters and a thickness of around 1-2 millimeters. They are designed to provide a reliable source of power for small devices like key fobs, watches, and hearing aids.
Table of Contents
Types of Coin Cell Batteries
There are several types of coin cell batteries available, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Here are some of the most common types:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| CR2032 | A 3-volt battery with a diameter of 20.0 mm and a thickness of 3.2 mm. It is commonly used in key fobs, watches, and calculators. |
| CR2036 | A 3-volt battery with a diameter of 20.0 mm and a thickness of 3.6 mm. It is commonly used in key fobs, watches, and hearing aids. |
| CR2450 | A 3-volt battery with a diameter of 24.5 mm and a thickness of 5.0 mm. It is commonly used in key fobs, watches, and hearing aids. |
| CR2456 | A 3-volt battery with a diameter of 24.5 mm and a thickness of 5.6 mm. It is commonly used in key fobs, watches, and hearing aids. |
How to Replace a Car Key Fob Battery
Replacing a car key fob battery is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Locate the battery compartment: The battery compartment is usually located on the back or bottom of the key fob. It may be covered with a small screw or clip.
- Remove the screw or clip: Use a small screwdriver or clip remover to remove the screw or clip that holds the battery compartment in place.
- Remove the old battery: Gently pull out the old battery from the compartment. Be careful not to touch any of the internal components.
- Insert the new battery: Place the new battery in the compartment, making sure it is seated properly.
- Replace the screw or clip: Replace the screw or clip to secure the battery compartment.
- Test the key fob: Press the unlock button on the key fob to test it. If it doesn’t work, try replacing the battery again.
Why Do Car Key Fob Batteries Drain So Quickly?
Car key fob batteries can drain quickly due to a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes: (See Also: Why Won’t My Car Start After a New Battery? Common Causes Revealed)
- Weak or old battery: If the battery is weak or old, it may not be able to provide enough power to the key fob, causing it to drain quickly.
- Interference from other devices: Other devices in your car, such as the radio or Bluetooth device, may be interfering with the key fob’s signal, causing it to drain quickly.
- Poor battery contact: If the battery is not making good contact with the key fob’s contacts, it may cause the battery to drain quickly.
- Key fob usage: If you use your key fob frequently, it may cause the battery to drain quickly.
How to Extend the Life of Your Car Key Fob Battery
There are several ways to extend the life of your car key fob battery. Here are some tips:
- Turn off the key fob when not in use: Turning off the key fob when not in use can help conserve battery life.
- Use a key fob with a low-power mode: Some key fobs have a low-power mode that can help conserve battery life.
- Avoid exposing the key fob to extreme temperatures: Extreme temperatures can cause the battery to drain quickly.
- Use a key fob with a replaceable battery: Using a key fob with a replaceable battery can help you replace the battery when it drains quickly.
Recap
In conclusion, car key fobs use a type of battery known as a coin cell battery. There are several types of coin cell batteries available, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. Replacing a car key fob battery is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools. However, car key fob batteries can drain quickly due to a variety of reasons, including weak or old batteries, interference from other devices, poor battery contact, and key fob usage. To extend the life of your car key fob battery, turn off the key fob when not in use, use a key fob with a low-power mode, avoid exposing the key fob to extreme temperatures, and use a key fob with a replaceable battery.
FAQs
What type of battery does my car key fob use?
Your car key fob likely uses a CR2032 or CR2036 coin cell battery. However, it’s best to check your key fob’s manual or manufacturer’s website to confirm the type of battery it uses. (See Also: How Long Does Car Battery? Last)
How do I replace the battery in my car key fob?
Replacing the battery in your car key fob is a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools. First, locate the battery compartment on the back or bottom of the key fob. Remove the screw or clip that holds the compartment in place, and gently pull out the old battery. Insert the new battery, making sure it is seated properly, and replace the screw or clip.
Why does my car key fob battery drain so quickly?
There are several reasons why your car key fob battery may drain quickly, including weak or old batteries, interference from other devices, poor battery contact, and key fob usage. To extend the life of your car key fob battery, turn off the key fob when not in use, use a key fob with a low-power mode, avoid exposing the key fob to extreme temperatures, and use a key fob with a replaceable battery.
Can I use a different type of battery in my car key fob?
No, it’s best to use the type of battery recommended by the manufacturer of your car key fob. Using a different type of battery may cause the key fob to malfunction or not work at all.
(See Also: How to Open Tesla Charge Port if Battery Is Dead? Easy Fix Now)How often should I replace the battery in my car key fob?
The frequency of replacing the battery in your car key fob depends on how often you use it. If you use your key fob frequently, you may need to replace the battery every 6-12 months. However, if you only use your key fob occasionally, you may be able to get away with replacing the battery every 1-2 years.