Open the Key Fob Without Damaging It
Most Chrysler key fobs split into two halves along a seam that runs around the edge. Look for a small slot or groove on the side of the fob — this is where you insert a flat tool to pry the two halves apart. A flathead screwdriver, a coin, or a plastic spoon works well. Do not use a knife or anything sharp enough to slip and cut your hand.
Insert your tool gently into the slot and twist slightly to create a gap. Once you see daylight between the halves, work your way around the edge, lifting a little at each point rather than forcing one spot. The two pieces should separate cleanly. If it feels stuck, you are probably not in the right groove — look for the actual seam line and try again there.
Key Takeaways
- Chrysler key fobs typically use a CR2032 or CR2025 battery, which you can buy at any drugstore, grocery store, or hardware store for two to five dollars.
- The battery sits in a small metal holder inside the fob and slides out sideways — do not force it straight up or you may bend the contacts.
- When you insert the new battery, the flat side faces up and the rounded side faces down into the holder, with the plus sign visible from above.
- Snap the two halves of the fob back together by pressing firmly along the seam until you hear or feel a click all the way around.
Identify and Remove the Old Battery
Inside the fob you will see a small metal or plastic battery holder with a coin-sized battery sitting in it. The holder usually has a small lip or tab on one side. Look at the battery itself — you will see a plus sign (+) on the flat top side and a minus sign (−) on the rounded bottom. Write down the battery type printed on the top (usually CR2032 or CR2025) so you know what to buy.
To remove the battery, slide it sideways out of the holder rather than pulling straight up. If there is a small metal tab sticking up from the holder, gently lift it first to release the battery, then slide the battery out. Do not pry or force — the battery should slide out smoothly. If it is stuck, a tiny dab of rubbing alcohol on the edges can help it slide free.
Buy the Correct Replacement Battery
Take the battery type you wrote down to any pharmacy, grocery store, or hardware store. CR2032 and CR2025 are the most common sizes for Chrysler fobs and cost between two and five dollars. You will find them in the battery aisle near watch batteries and hearing aid batteries. Some stores also sell them at the checkout counter. If you are unsure which type your fob uses, bring the old battery with you and the store staff can match it.
You do not need a special Chrysler battery — any brand CR2032 or CR2025 will work. Duracell, Energizer, and store brands all function the same way. Buy one extra if you can, since these batteries last three to four years and you will need another one eventually.
Insert the New Battery Correctly
Before you touch the new battery, wash your hands or wipe them dry. Oils from your skin can interfere with the battery contacts. Hold the new battery so the plus sign (+) faces up toward you. Slide it into the metal holder the same way the old one came out — sideways, not straight down. The flat side with the plus sign should be facing up, and the rounded bottom should rest in the holder.
Push the battery all the way in until it sits flat and level in the holder. If there was a metal tab, gently press it back down over the battery to hold it in place. The battery should not move or rattle when you shake the fob gently. If it feels loose, remove it and try again — it may not be seated all the way.
Reassemble the Key Fob
Line up the two halves of the fob so the seams match. Press them together firmly, starting at one end and working your way around the edge. You should feel or hear a small click as the pieces snap together. Press along the entire seam to make sure both halves are fully seated — a fob that is not snapped together tightly will not work and the battery may fall out.
Once the fob is closed, test it by pressing each button. The lock, unlock, and panic buttons should all work. If nothing happens, open the fob again and check that the battery is sitting flat in the holder with the plus sign facing up. A battery inserted backwards will not work, but it will not damage the fob — straightforward flip it over and try again.
What to Do If the Fob Still Does Not Work
If you installed a new battery and the buttons still do not respond, the problem is usually not the battery. Check that the battery is making contact with the metal terminals inside the holder — if the contacts look dirty or corroded, wipe them gently with a dry cloth or a cotton swab. Sometimes a thin layer of corrosion prevents the battery from making a good connection.
If the contacts are clean and the battery is new, the fob itself may have a broken circuit or water damage. This is not something you can fix at home. Your Chrysler dealer can reprogram a new fob or repair the old one, though this usually costs between fifty and two hundred dollars depending on your model year. Before you pay for a repair, test the fob one more time — make sure you are pressing the buttons firmly and that you are within range of your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a key fob battery last?
A CR2032 or CR2025 battery typically lasts three to four years in a key fob, depending on how often you use it. If you press the buttons many times a day, the battery may wear out faster. If you notice the fob working at shorter distances than before, the battery is probably dying and should be replaced soon.
Can I use a different battery size if I cannot find the right one?
No — using the wrong size battery can damage the fob or cause it to malfunction. CR2032 and CR2025 are slightly different thicknesses, and using the wrong one may prevent the fob from closing properly or may cause poor contact. Stick with the exact type printed on your old battery.
What if I drop the battery or lose it inside the fob?
If the battery falls into the fob case, turn it upside down over a table and gently shake it until the battery slides out. If you lose it, you will need to buy a new one anyway. If you drop a battery on the floor, pick it up and inspect it for cracks or dents before using it — a damaged battery may leak and damage your fob.
Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?
No — changing the battery does not erase the fob's programming. Once you install the new battery and close the fob, it should work when ready without any reprogramming. If it does not work after a new battery, the fob may have lost its programming for a different reason, and you will need to contact your Chrysler dealer.
Is it safe to touch the battery with my bare hands?
Yes, it is safe to touch a CR2032 or CR2025 battery with your bare hands. These batteries produce very little current and cannot shock you. However, washing your hands first prevents skin oils from building up on the battery contacts, which can reduce the connection quality over time.