# 🔋 How To Change The Battery In A Dodge Key Fob – Complete Guide
Is your Dodge key fob not locking or unlocking doors like it used to? Do you have to stand closer and push the buttons harder? Most likely, the battery is weak and needs to be replaced.
The good news: **you can change the battery in your Dodge key fob yourself in just a few minutes**—and save time and money compared to visiting the dealership.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
– ✅ Common signs your Dodge key fob battery is dying
– ✅ Which battery your Dodge key fob uses
– ✅ Step-by-step instructions for different Dodge key fobs
– ✅ Tips to avoid damaging your key fob
– ✅ What to do if your key fob still doesn’t work afterward
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## 🧩 1. Signs Your Dodge Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Before you open the key fob, check for these common symptoms of a weak battery:
– 🔻 **Reduced range**
You need to be much closer to the vehicle for the key fob to work.
– 🔻 **Intermittent operation**
Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, or you need to press buttons multiple times.
– 🔻 **No response from the vehicle**
The lock/unlock, trunk, or remote start buttons stop working entirely.
– 🔻 **Dashboard warning message**
Some newer Dodge models display messages such as:
– “Key Fob Battery Low”
– “Key Fob Not Detected”
If you notice one or more of these, it’s time to replace the battery.
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## 🔍 2. What Battery Does a Dodge Key Fob Use?
Most modern Dodge key fobs use **coin-style lithium batteries**. The exact type depends on your model and year. The most common types are:
– **CR2032** – Very common in many modern Dodge fobs
– **CR2025** – Slightly thinner than CR2032 but similar size
– **CR2016** – Less common, used in some older or smaller fobs
### 🧪 How to Identify the Correct Battery
You can confirm the battery type in three ways:
1. **Owner’s manual**
Check the “Keys” or “Key Fob” section of your Dodge owner’s manual.
2. **Look inside the key fob**
Once opened, the battery will usually have the type (e.g., CR2032) printed on it.
3. **Search by model & year**
Many parts websites let you search for the correct key fob battery by entering your vehicle details.
> 💡 **Tip:** Always buy a **quality brand** (e.g., Energizer, Panasonic, Duracell). Cheap batteries can die quickly or leak.
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## 🧰 3. Tools You Will Need
You don’t need special tools. Most Dodge key fobs can be opened with:
– A **small flathead screwdriver** or
– A **plastic pry tool** (better to avoid scratches)
Optional but helpful:
– 🧤 **Thin gloves** or clean hands (to avoid getting oils on the battery)
– 🧻 **Soft cloth** or towel (to protect surfaces and catch small parts)
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## 🚗 4. Common Dodge Models & Typical Battery Types
While you should always double-check for your exact vehicle, here’s a quick overview:
| Dodge Model (Typical Years) | Common Key Fob Battery Type |
|—————————–|—————————–|
| Dodge Charger | CR2032 |
| Dodge Challenger | CR2032 |
| Dodge Durango | CR2032 |
| Dodge Journey | CR2032 or CR2025 |
| Dodge Grand Caravan | CR2032 or CR2025 |
| Dodge Ram (older badged models) | CR2032 |
| Dodge Dart | CR2032 |
| Dodge Avenger | CR2032 or CR2016 |
| Dodge Nitro / Caliber (older) | CR2032 |
> ✅ **Always open your key fob or check your manual to confirm before buying.**
—
## 🧩 5. Types of Dodge Key Fobs
Dodge uses a few main key fob designs:
1. **Modern “Smart Key” / Proximity Fob**
– Push-button start
– No metal key used to start the car
– Usually has a hidden emergency metal key inside
2. **Flip-Key Fob**
– Fold-out metal key blade
– Buttons built into the plastic body
3. **Standard Remote Key Fob**
– Fixed metal key
– Separate buttons for lock/unlock/trunk/panic
The process is **similar for all**, but the opening points may vary slightly. Below, we’ll walk through the most common style first: the **modern proximity smart key** used in vehicles like the Charger, Challenger, Durango, and many others.
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## 🛠️ 6. How To Change the Battery in a Modern Dodge Smart Key Fob (Proximity Key)
This style is used on many Dodge models with push-button start.
### 🔹 Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
1. Locate the **small release button or latch** on the back or side of the fob.
2. Slide or press this button while pulling the **metal key** out from the fob.
3. Set the metal key aside—this reveals a **seam or small gap** where you can start opening the fob.
—
### 🔹 Step 2: Open the Key Fob Case
1. Look for a **small notch or groove** along the edge of the fob, often where the emergency key was stored.
2. Insert the **flathead screwdriver or plastic pry tool** into the notch.
3. Gently **twist or pry** to separate the two halves of the fob.
4. Work your way around the edge if necessary, being careful not to force it.
> ⚠️ **Warning:** Don’t twist too hard. You can crack the plastic or damage internal components. Use steady, gentle pressure.
—
### 🔹 Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
Once opened, you’ll see a small round battery held in place.
1. Note the **battery orientation**:
– The **+ (positive)** side is usually facing up.
– Take a quick photo with your phone if you’re unsure.
2. Use your **fingernail or a small tool** to carefully pop the battery out of the holder.
3. Avoid bending any metal clips or contacts.
—
### 🔹 Step 4: Insert the New Battery
1. Confirm the **battery type** (e.g., CR2032).
2. Hold the new battery by the **edges**. Avoid touching the flat faces too much.
3. Slide the battery under the clip and **press it gently** into place, matching the same orientation as the old one:
– Generally, **+ side up**.
> 💡 **Tip:** If the new battery feels loose, double-check that it’s properly under the clips and fully seated.
—
### 🔹 Step 5: Snap the Key Fob Back Together
1. Align the **two halves** of the key fob.
2. Press them together firmly until you hear or feel them **snap** into place all around the edge.
3. Reinsert the **metal emergency key** into its slot until it clicks.
—
### 🔹 Step 6: Test the Key Fob
Now test all functions:
– 🔓 Lock
– 🔐 Unlock
– 🚗 Remote start (if equipped)
– 📢 Panic button
Also try standing a bit farther away than before. The range should be **back to normal or better**.
If everything works, you’re done!
—
## 🔧 7. How To Change the Battery in a Dodge Flip-Key Fob
Some Dodge models use a **flip-out metal key** integrated into the fob.
### 🔹 Step 1: Fold the Key Blade
– Press the button to **fold the key blade back inside** the fob (if it’s sticking out).
### 🔹 Step 2: Locate the Seam
– Look around the **edges** of the key fob for a small **split or seam**.
– Some have **tiny screws** on the back. If so, use a small screwdriver (often a Phillips or Torx) to remove them.
### 🔹 Step 3: Open the Fob
– Insert a **small flathead screwdriver** or plastic tool into the seam.
– Gently twist or pry to **separate the housing**.
– If there are screws, remove them first, then gently pull the case apart.
### 🔹 Step 4: Replace the Battery
1. Locate the round coin-style battery inside.
2. Note the **+ and – orientation**.
3. Carefully remove the old battery.
4. Insert the new one, **matching the same orientation**.
### 🔹 Step 5: Reassemble & Test
– Snap the two halves back together (and reinstall any screws).
– Test all buttons: lock, unlock, trunk (if present), and panic.
—
## 🔧 8. How To Change the Battery in a Standard Dodge Remote Key Fob
Older Dodge models may use a **standard remote key fob** attached to a permanent metal key.
### 🔹 Step 1: Examine the Back
– Look for **small screws** or a **notch** where the fob can be pried open.
– If screws are present, remove them carefully.
### 🔹 Step 2: Separate the Case
– Use a **flathead screwdriver** or plastic pry tool along the seam.
– Gently work around the edges until the case splits apart.
### 🔹 Step 3: Replace the Battery
– Identify the battery type (commonly **CR2032 or CR2025**).
– Note its orientation (+ side up or down).
– Remove the old battery and install the new one in the **exact same position**.
### 🔹 Step 4: Close the Case & Test
– Press the halves together until they click or reinstall the screws.
– Test all functions on your vehicle.
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## 🧠 9. Important Tips & Best Practices
Follow these tips to keep your key fob working reliably:
### ✅ Use the Right Battery
– Always match the **exact type** (CR2032 vs CR2025 vs CR2016).
– Do not try to stack smaller batteries to make up thickness.
### ✅ Avoid Metal Tools on the Battery
– Using metal tools can risk **shorting** the battery.
– If you must use a tool, touch only the **edges** of the battery.
### ✅ Don’t Touch Battery Surfaces Too Much
– Oils from your fingers can reduce contact quality.
– Hold the battery from the **sides**.
### ✅ Check for Dirt or Corrosion
– If you see any dust or light corrosion inside:
– Gently clean with a **soft, dry cloth**.
– Avoid using liquids, cleaners, or alcohol inside the fob unless recommended.
### ✅ Replace Batteries in Pairs (If You Have Two Fobs)
– If one fob’s battery is dying, the other is likely close behind.
– Replacing both now avoids being stranded later.
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## 🧪 10. Troubleshooting: Key Fob Still Not Working?
If you replaced the battery and the key fob still doesn’t work, run through this checklist:
### 1. Double-Check Battery Orientation
– Is the **+ side facing the correct direction**?
– Compare to your photo or the markings inside the case.
### 2. Confirm the Battery Type
– Verify that you installed the **correct type** (e.g., CR2032 vs CR2025).
– Wrong thickness can cause **poor contact**.
### 3. Ensure the Case Is Fully Closed
– If the housing isn’t **snapped together tightly**, the battery may not be seated firmly.
### 4. Try a Different New Battery
– Even new batteries can be **defective or weak**.
– Try a second one from a **fresh, name-brand pack**.
### 5. Test the Other Key Fob (If You Have One)
– If both fobs fail, the issue may be with the **vehicle’s receiver**, not the fob.
### 6. Reprogramming Needed?
– In rare cases, especially if the fob was damaged or the internal board shifted, it may need **reprogramming**.
– This is typically done at:
– Dodge dealership
– Qualified automotive locksmith
### 7. Physical Damage
– If the key fob was dropped, cracked, or got wet, internal components may be damaged.
– In this case, replacement may be more cost-effective.
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## 🧷 11. How Often Should You Replace a Dodge Key Fob Battery?
On average, a Dodge key fob battery lasts:
– **2–4 years** with normal use
Factors that reduce battery life:
– Frequent use of **remote start**
– Very hot or very cold climates
– Cheap, off-brand batteries
If you notice reduced range or occasional failures, it’s wise to **replace the battery proactively** before it dies completely—especially before long trips.
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## 📦 12. Where to Buy Dodge Key Fob Batteries
You don’t need a special “Dodge” battery—just the right **coin cell type**. Common places to buy them:
– Auto parts stores (O’Reilly, AutoZone, NAPA, etc.)
– Big-box stores (Walmart, Target)
– Hardware stores
– Online (Amazon, battery specialty sites)
Look for:
– 🔋 Correct type (e.g., CR2032)
– ✅ Reputable brands
– 📆 Long expiration date
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## 📚 13. Quick Summary: Dodge Key Fob Battery Replacement
Here’s a fast recap:
1. **Identify your key fob style** (smart key, flip key, or standard remote).
2. **Confirm the battery type** (most use CR2032, some CR2025 or CR2016).
3. **Open the fob** carefully using a small screwdriver or pry tool.
4. **Remove the old battery** and note orientation (+ / -).
5. **Install the new battery** in the same direction.
6. **Snap the case back together** and reinstall any emergency key.
7. **Test all buttons** (lock, unlock, trunk, panic, remote start if available).
With a few simple steps and a low-cost battery, your Dodge key fob can work like new again—no dealership visit needed.
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If you maintain your key fobs and replace the batteries when they start to weaken, you’ll avoid the frustration of a non-responsive fob and keep your Dodge easy and convenient to access every day.
