You can replace an Infiniti key fob battery yourself in about five minutes with no tools
Most Infiniti key fobs use a coin-cell battery — usually CR2032 or CR2025 — that you can swap out at home without taking the fob apart or visiting a dealer. The battery sits in a slot behind the fob's plastic case, held in by a small clip or spring. You pry open the case with a flat object, slide out the old battery, and slide in the new one. The whole job costs between $3 and $8 for the battery itself.
The steps are the same across most Infiniti models from the last 15 years, though the exact case design varies slightly. If your fob is cracked or the battery compartment is corroded, replacement may not work — in that case, you would need a new fob from a dealer or a third-party supplier.
Key Takeaways
- Infiniti key fobs typically use CR2032 or CR2025 coin-cell batteries that you can buy at any pharmacy, grocery store, or online retailer for $3 to $8.
- You need only a flat object like a coin or plastic spoon to pry open the fob case; no screwdrivers or special tools are required.
- The battery compartment is usually on the back or side of the fob and holds the battery in place with a small metal clip or spring.
- After inserting the new battery, test the fob by pressing each button to confirm the lock, unlock, and panic functions work before putting it away.
What battery type your Infiniti key fob uses
Check your owner's manual or the back of your fob to find the exact battery model. Most Infiniti fobs use CR2032, which is a 3-volt lithium coin cell about the size of a dime. Some older or compact models use CR2025, which is slightly thinner but the same diameter. Both are standard batteries sold at pharmacies, supermarkets, and online — you do not need an Infiniti-branded version.
If you cannot find the battery type printed on your fob, search online for your specific Infiniti model year and "key fob battery." You will find the answer in seconds. Buying the wrong size wastes money and time, so confirm before you shop.
How to open the key fob case
Look for a seam or slot running around the edge of your fob. This is where the plastic case splits. On most Infiniti fobs, the seam runs horizontally across the middle or vertically down one side. Insert a flat object — a coin, flathead screwdriver, or plastic spoon — into the seam and gently twist or pry to separate the two halves.
Do not force it. If the case resists, try a different spot along the seam or use a plastic tool instead of metal to avoid scratching the fob. Once the case cracks open slightly, you can usually pull it apart by hand. Set the metal contacts and any springs aside on a clean surface so you do not lose them.
Removing and replacing the battery
The battery sits in a small compartment, usually held in place by a metal clip or spring on one side. Note which side of the battery faces up — the positive side is marked with a plus sign. Gently lift or slide the clip away from the battery, then slide the old battery out of its slot.
Insert the new battery with the positive side facing the same direction as the old one. Slide it all the way into the slot until it sits flat, then press the clip back down over the battery to hold it in place. If your fob uses a spring instead of a clip, the spring should already be in position and will hold the new battery automatically.
Closing the fob and testing the buttons
Align the two halves of the case and press them together firmly until you hear or feel a click. The seam should be flush all the way around. If a gap remains, the case may not be fully seated — press harder or check that no wires or springs are caught in the seam.
Test each button on the fob: lock, unlock, and panic (if your model has one). All three should work when ready. If a button does not respond, the battery may not be making contact with the terminals. Open the fob again, remove the battery, and reinsert it, making sure it sits completely flat in the slot.
When a new battery does not fix the problem
If the fob still does not work after you install a fresh battery, the problem is usually a corroded battery compartment or damaged contacts inside the case. Corrosion appears as white, green, or blue powder on the metal surfaces. If you see corrosion, clean it gently with a cotton swab and a small amount of rubbing alcohol, then dry the compartment completely before installing the new battery.
If cleaning does not work, or if the case is cracked or the buttons are stuck, the fob itself is damaged beyond a battery replacement. You would need to buy a replacement fob from an Infiniti dealer, a locksmith, or a third-party supplier. Dealer fobs cost more but come programmed to your vehicle; third-party fobs are cheaper but usually require programming at a dealer or by a locksmith.
Where to buy replacement batteries
CR2032 and CR2025 batteries are sold everywhere: pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, grocery stores, hardware stores, and online retailers like Amazon. A single battery costs $2 to $5 in a store; a pack of four or five costs $5 to $10 and is better value if you have multiple fobs or devices. Check the expiration date on the package — old batteries lose charge over time even when unused.
Do not buy the cheapest option if the brand is unfamiliar. Reputable brands like Energizer, Duracell, and Panasonic hold their charge longer and are worth the small extra cost. A dead battery in your fob is inconvenient; a cheap battery that dies after a month is worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a key fob battery last?
Most CR2032 and CR2025 batteries last three to four years in a key fob, depending on how often you use the buttons. Heavy use — pressing the buttons many times a day — drains the battery faster. If your fob stops working after only a year, the battery may be defective, or the fob may have a drain problem.
Can I use a rechargeable battery in my Infiniti key fob?
Rechargeable coin-cell batteries exist, but they are not recommended for key fobs. Rechargeable batteries have a lower voltage than standard alkaline batteries and may not provide enough power to trigger the fob's transmitter reliably. Stick with standard CR2032 or CR2025 alkaline batteries.
What if I lose the spring or clip when I open the fob?
If the metal clip or spring falls out and you cannot find it, the battery will not stay in place. Check the floor and any surfaces nearby — these parts are small and straightforward to lose. If you cannot locate it, you can buy a replacement fob or contact an Infiniti dealer for a replacement clip or spring.
Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?
No. Changing the battery does not erase the fob's programming. As soon as the new battery is installed, the fob should work exactly as it did before. If it does not, the problem is not the battery or programming — it is likely a damaged contact or a corroded compartment.
Can I replace the battery in a smart key or push-button fob?
Yes, if your Infiniti has a smart key or push-button start fob, it also contains a coin-cell battery that you can replace the same way. The case design may be slightly different, but the process is identical. Check your manual to confirm the battery type for your specific fob model.