Open the Key Fob and Locate the Battery

Most Chrysler key fobs open by sliding a small metal lever or pressing a release button on the side or back of the fob. Look for a seam running around the edge—this is where the two plastic halves separate. On many models, you'll find a small slot near the bottom; insert a flathead screwdriver or coin into this slot and gently twist to pry the fob apart. Do this slowly to avoid cracking the plastic.

Once the fob is open, you'll see a small circuit board with a coin-shaped battery attached to it. The battery is usually held in place by a metal clip or sits in a shallow plastic cup. Take note of which side of the battery faces up—the positive side (marked with a + symbol) should face toward you when you look at the open fob. This detail matters when you install the new battery.

Key Takeaways

  • Chrysler key fobs typically use a CR2032 or CR2025 coin-cell battery, which you can buy at any pharmacy, grocery store, or hardware store for under five dollars.
  • Open the fob by sliding a lever or prying gently at the seam with a flathead screwdriver, and note which side of the old battery faces upward before removing it.
  • Insert the new battery with the positive side facing the same direction as the old one, then snap the fob halves back together until you hear a click.
  • Test all buttons on the fob from about 10 feet away from your vehicle before considering the job complete.

Identify Your Battery Type and Buy a Replacement

Chrysler key fobs use one of two common coin-cell batteries: the CR2032 or the CR2025. The easiest way to know which one you need is to look at the battery already in your fob—the type is printed on the metal surface. If you can't read it clearly, write down your vehicle's year, make, and model, and ask the pharmacy or hardware store clerk which battery fits your fob.

You can buy these batteries at any pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens), grocery store, or hardware store (Home Depot, Lowe's). They cost between two and five dollars. Some auto parts stores like AutoZone or O'Reilly carry them as well. Buy one extra battery while you're there—key fob batteries last three to four years, and having a spare on hand saves a trip later.

Remove the Old Battery Safely

With the fob open, look at how the old battery sits in its holder. If a metal clip holds it down, gently lift one edge of the clip away from the battery using your fingernail or a plastic spoon. Do not use a metal tool that could scratch the circuit board. Once the clip is loose, slide the battery out from underneath it.

If the battery sits in a plastic cup with no clip, straightforward lift it straight out. Set the old battery aside—do not throw it away when ready. You'll want to keep it visible while you install the new one so you can match the orientation exactly. Some people place the old battery next to the open fob as a reference.

Install the New Battery in the Correct Direction

Before touching the new battery, wash your hands or wipe them dry. Oils from your skin can interfere with the battery's contact with the fob's metal terminals. Hold the new battery so the positive side (marked with a +) faces the same direction the old battery's positive side faced. This is the most common mistake—reversing the battery will prevent the fob from working.

Slide the new battery into the holder, positive side up, until it sits flat and level. If your fob has a metal clip, gently press the clip back down over the battery until it clicks or snaps into place. The clip should hold the battery firmly but not so tight that you have to force it. If the battery is loose, the fob may not work reliably.

Close the Fob and Test All Buttons

Align the two halves of the fob so the seams match up evenly on all sides. Press them together firmly until you hear or feel a click. Some fobs require you to press along the entire seam; others snap together at one point. Do not force the halves together if they don't align—check that the battery is sitting flat and try again.

Stand about 10 feet away from your vehicle and press each button on the fob: lock, unlock, panic, and any others your model has. Watch your vehicle's lights or listen for the locks to respond. If nothing happens, open the fob again and check that the battery is oriented correctly and seated fully in its holder. If the fob still doesn't work after you've confirmed the battery direction, the circuit board may need service, but this is rare.

Reassemble and Store Your Old Battery

Once you've confirmed the fob works, you're finished. The old battery should be recycled or disposed of according to your local rules. Many pharmacies and retailers that sell batteries will take old ones back for free. Check with your local waste management program or search online for "battery recycling near me" to find a drop-off location.

Keep your key fob in a dry place away from extreme heat or cold. Batteries last longer when stored in moderate temperatures. If you notice the fob responding slowly or requiring you to press buttons multiple times, the battery is likely wearing out—replace it again using the same steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my Chrysler key fob won't open?

Try using a plastic spoon or butter knife instead of a metal screwdriver—plastic is less likely to slip and damage the fob. If there's a visible screw, use a screwdriver that fits it exactly; a screwdriver that's too small will strip the screw. Some fobs have a small notch rather than a slot; look for it on all four sides before assuming the fob is stuck.

Can I use a different battery type if I can't find the exact one?

CR2032 and CR2025 are not interchangeable—they have different thicknesses and voltages. Using the wrong battery can damage the fob's circuit board or cause it to malfunction. Stick with the type printed on your old battery. If your store doesn't have it in stock, ask when it will be available or try another location.

How long does a new key fob battery last?

Most Chrysler key fob batteries last three to four years with normal use. Heavy use—pressing buttons many times per day—can shorten this to two years. If your fob starts responding slowly or you have to press buttons twice, the battery is wearing out and needs replacement.

What should I do if the fob still doesn't work after I replace the battery?

First, open the fob again and confirm the battery is oriented correctly (positive side up) and seated fully. If it is, try cleaning the metal contacts on the circuit board with a dry cotton swab—dirt or corrosion can prevent the battery from making contact. If the fob still doesn't work, the circuit board may need professional repair from a Chrysler dealer.

Is it safe to replace the battery myself, or should I go to a dealer?

Replacing a key fob battery is safe to do at home and requires no special tools beyond a flathead screwdriver. A dealer will charge you thirty to fifty dollars for the same five-minute job. The only reason to visit a dealer is if the fob doesn't work after you've replaced the battery and cleaned the contacts.