Open the key fob and locate the battery

The Chevy Equinox key fob splits into two halves. Look for a small slot or seam running along the edge of the fob — usually on the side or bottom. Insert a flat tool (a coin, flathead screwdriver, or even a butter knife) into that slot and gently twist to pry the two halves apart. Do not force it; a small amount of pressure is enough.

Once open, you will see a small round battery sitting in a metal holder. The battery is typically a CR2032 or CR2025 — the number is printed on the battery itself. Write down which type you have, because you will need to buy the exact replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • Chevy Equinox key fobs use either CR2032 or CR2025 batteries, which you can find at any pharmacy, grocery store, or hardware store for a few dollars.
  • Pry the fob open gently with a flat tool along the seam, then note which side of the battery holder faces up before removing it.
  • Insert the new battery with the positive side (marked with a +) facing up, then snap the fob halves back together.
  • If the fob still does not work after replacing the battery, the problem may be a worn contact or a dead fob circuit, not the battery itself.

Remove the old battery and note its position

Gently lift or pry the old battery out of its metal holder. Pay attention to which side was facing up — the side marked with a + symbol (the positive side) should have been pointing toward you or toward the top of the fob.

If the battery is stuck, do not dig at it with a sharp tool. Instead, use a plastic spoon handle or the edge of a credit card to slide under it and lift gently. Metal tools can scratch the circuit board inside.

Buy the correct replacement battery

Take the old battery or the number you wrote down to any pharmacy, grocery store, or hardware store. CR2032 and CR2025 batteries cost between $2 and $6 each, and most stores stock them in the watch or hearing aid section. You can also order them online, but you will have them in hand when ready if you buy in person.

Do not buy a generic "coin cell" battery without checking the number — the wrong size will not fit or will not power the fob correctly.

Insert the new battery with the correct side facing up

Place the new battery into the metal holder with the positive side (+) facing up — the same direction the old battery was facing. This is the most common mistake: reversing the battery will prevent the fob from working, even though the battery is new.

The battery should sit flat and snug in the holder. If it rocks or feels loose, remove it and check that you are using the correct size.

Close the fob and test it

Line up the two halves of the fob and press them together firmly until you hear or feel a click. The seam should be tight all the way around — if there is a gap, open it again and make sure the battery is sitting flat and the circuit board is not bent.

Stand near your Chevy Equinox and press the lock and unlock buttons. The fob should work when ready. If it does not, open the fob again and check that the battery is facing the correct direction and sitting all the way down in the holder.

What to do if the fob still does not work

If a new battery does not fix the problem, the issue is usually not the battery itself. The metal contacts inside the fob may be worn or corroded, or the circuit board may have failed. You can try cleaning the metal contacts with a pencil eraser or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, then letting them dry completely before reassembling.

If cleaning does not help, you will need a replacement fob. Chevy dealerships sell OEM (original equipment manufacturer) fobs, and aftermarket fobs are also available online or at auto parts stores. Programming a new fob usually requires a trip to the dealership, though some newer models allow you to program it yourself — check your owner's manual or call your dealer to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different battery size if I cannot find CR2032 or CR2025?

No. Using the wrong size will either not fit in the holder or will not power the fob correctly. Both CR2032 and CR2025 are common and inexpensive — any pharmacy or grocery store will have them in stock.

How often do I need to replace the battery?

Most key fob batteries last two to four years with normal use. If you use the fob heavily or live in a very cold climate, the battery may wear out sooner. You will notice the fob working at shorter distances before it stops working entirely.

What happens if I put the battery in backwards?

The fob will not work, but the battery will not be damaged. straightforward open the fob again, flip the battery so the positive side (+) faces up, and close it. The fob should work when ready.

Do I need to reprogram the fob after changing the battery?

No. Changing the battery does not erase the fob's programming. Once you insert the new battery and close the fob, it should work right away without any additional steps.

Where is the seam on my Equinox key fob if I cannot find it?

The seam usually runs along the side or bottom edge of the fob. Look for a thin line where the two plastic halves meet. If you still cannot find it, try gently running your fingernail around the entire perimeter of the fob — you will feel the seam before you see it.