You can buy key fob batteries at drugstores, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers

The easiest place to find a key fob battery is any drugstore or supermarket with a pharmacy section — CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Walmart all stock them near the checkout or in the health and beauty aisle. You can also find them at hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, usually in the electrical or tool section. If you know the exact battery type your fob needs, you can order online from Amazon, eBay, or battery-specific retailers like Batteries Plus Bulbs or Interstate Battery, often for less money than in-store prices.

The catch is knowing which battery your fob actually uses. Most car key fobs use one of three types: CR2032, CR2025, or CR2016. The number refers to the battery's size and voltage. You can find out which one you need by opening your fob — usually there's a small slot or button on the side that lets you pop the case apart — and looking at the number printed on the old battery. If you cannot open it yourself, any car dealership, locksmith, or tire shop can open it for you and tell you the type in under a minute, often for free.

Key Takeaways

  • Most key fob batteries are CR2032, CR2025, or CR2016 coin cells, and you can find the exact type by opening your fob and reading the number on the old battery.
  • Drugstores and supermarkets carry key fob batteries in the pharmacy or checkout area, and prices usually range from $3 to $8 per battery.
  • Online retailers like Amazon and Batteries Plus Bulbs often sell the same batteries for $1 to $3 each if you buy in bulk or are willing to wait for shipping.
  • A car dealership, locksmith, or tire shop can open your fob and identify the battery type for you if you cannot do it yourself.

Drugstores and supermarkets are the fastest option

CVS, Walgreens, Target, and Walmart all stock CR2032 and CR2025 batteries because they are the most common types. You can walk in, find them in minutes, and pay at checkout. The downside is price — in-store batteries usually cost $4 to $8 each, sometimes more. If you are in a hurry or do not want to wait for shipping, this is the right choice.

Some drugstores keep batteries behind the pharmacy counter rather than on open shelves. If you cannot find them in the aisle, ask a staff member. Many also have a battery section near the photo counter or in the electronics area. Call ahead if you want to confirm they have the specific type in stock before you drive over.

Hardware stores carry batteries and can help you identify the type

Home Depot, Lowe's, and Ace Hardware all stock coin cell batteries in their electrical or tool sections. The selection is usually wider than at drugstores, and staff are often more familiar with battery types and sizes. If you bring your key fob in, they can help you match it to the right battery.

Hardware stores typically price batteries the same as drugstores — $4 to $8 each — but some run sales or loyalty discounts. If you have a rewards card, ask whether batteries are included. You can also call the store and ask them to hold a specific battery type if you want to make sure they have it before you visit.

Online retailers offer lower prices if you can wait for delivery

Amazon, eBay, and specialty retailers like Batteries Plus Bulbs sell key fob batteries in bulk packs of 5, 10, or 20 for $1 to $3 per battery. If you buy a 10-pack of CR2032 batteries, you might pay $12 to $15 total, which works out to $1.20 to $1.50 each. This is much cheaper than buying one battery at a time in a store.

The trade-off is shipping time. Standard delivery usually takes 3 to 7 days, though Amazon Prime offers faster options if you have a membership. If your fob battery is dead and you need it working today, order online only if you have Prime or if the retailer offers same-day delivery in your area. Otherwise, go to a drugstore or hardware store.

Batteries Plus Bulbs and Interstate Battery are worth checking because they specialize in batteries and often have sales or bulk discounts. Both have store locations you can visit in person and websites where you can order for pickup or delivery. Their staff can also help you identify the right battery type if you are unsure.

Car dealerships and locksmiths can replace the battery for you

If you do not want to open your fob yourself, a car dealership, locksmith, or tire shop can do it for you. Most will identify the battery type, replace it, and test the fob in 10 to 15 minutes. Some charge a small fee — usually $5 to $15 — but many do it for free if you buy the battery from them.

This option makes sense if you are uncomfortable opening the fob or if you are worried about damaging it. Dealerships are the most expensive route but the safest if your fob is expensive or has special features. Locksmiths and tire shops are usually cheaper and just as reliable. Call ahead to confirm they offer this service and ask whether there is a fee.

Know your battery type before you shop

The three most common key fob batteries are CR2032, CR2025, and CR2016. CR2032 is the largest and most common, used in most car fobs. CR2025 is slightly thinner and used in some older or compact fobs. CR2016 is the smallest and least common. All three cost about the same in stores.

To find out which one you need, open your fob by looking for a small slot or button on the edge of the case. Gently pry it open — most fobs are designed to come apart easily without tools. Once it is open, look at the battery sitting inside. The type is printed on the flat side of the battery. Write down the number or take a photo so you have it when you shop.

If your fob has a screw holding the case together instead of a slot, you will need a small flathead screwdriver to open it. If you do not have one, a locksmith or dealership can open it for you in seconds. Do not force it — forcing a fob open can crack the plastic case or damage the circuit board inside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any CR2032 battery in my key fob?

Yes, any CR2032 battery will work in a fob designed for CR2032, regardless of brand. Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic, and store brands all perform the same way. The main difference is price and how long the battery lasts before it dies. Stick with a recognizable brand if you want reliability, but store-brand batteries work just as well.

How long does a key fob battery last?

Most key fob batteries last 3 to 4 years with normal use. If you use your fob several times a day, it may last 2 to 3 years. If you use it rarely, it might last 5 years or longer. The battery dies gradually — you will notice the fob working at shorter distances before it stops working entirely.

What if I buy the wrong battery type?

If you buy the wrong size, it straightforward will not fit in your fob. The battery compartment is designed for a specific size, and a smaller or larger battery will not make contact with the terminals. Take it back to the store and exchange it for the correct type. Most retailers will swap it for free if you have your receipt.

Is it safe to open my key fob myself?

Yes, it is safe if you are gentle. Most fobs are designed to come apart by hand or with a plastic tool — no screwdriver needed. Look for a small slot on the edge and gently pry it open. Avoid using metal tools or forcing the case, which can damage the circuit board. If you are nervous, a locksmith or dealership can do it for you in seconds.

Can I buy key fob batteries at a gas station?

Some gas stations stock batteries, but the selection is usually limited to the most common types like CR2032, and prices are often higher than at drugstores. If you are on the road and your fob dies, a gas station is a reasonable option. Otherwise, a drugstore or hardware store will have better prices and more choices.