For several years, Nissan drivers have used a similar 4- or 5-button key fob called the Intelligent Key. There have been subtle changes up to 2021, but the unit remains essentially the same. Obviously, the key fob is crucial to the everyday operation of the car. You might need a working key fob to open up or start your vehicle. You won’t be able to lock it remotely, either.
In other words, keeping your key fob supplied with power is always a good idea. The good news on modern Nissan key fob battery units is that there is a flashing light on the casing. When the light stops flashing, it indicates that the battery needs changing. It’s designed to act as a warning: if there isn’t enough power to keep the light blinking, then there isn’t enough power to communicate with your Nissan.
In today’s blog, we’re looking at Nissan key fob battery replacement, how it’s done, and how often you might have to do it. We’ll also include some additional tips about your key fob.
Process overview:
- Step 1: Release the mechanical key
- Step 2: Pry open the fob into two parts
- Step 3: Remove the old battery
- Step 4: Install the new battery
- Step 5: Replace key fob housing
- Step 6: Replace the mechanical key
Background: What Functions Are On a Nissan Key Fob?
First, let’s be clear on the key fobs themselves. Broadly speaking, two versions are still commonly in use in 2021. There is a simpler, 4-button key fob that locks and unlocks the car, opens the trunk, and includes a panic alarm. The newer generation added a remote start button, bringing the total to 5 buttons. They also introduced a blinking light (see above) that indicates the battery is working and power is flowing in the key fob.
The 5-button key fob also helps the Nissan owner manage certain security functions on their vehicle. It’s primarily designed to be a fob that sits in your pocket or purse and allows you to open and lock the doors keylessly and start the car.
The effective range of these keyless features is about 2.5 feet. A button on the door handle can lock and unlock the car when the fob is nearby, and the car’s push-button start will activate only when the key fob is close, too.
A family running a Nissan vehicle can register up to 4 keys on each car. The key fobs are saved as profiles in the Nissan infotainment system. They can allow drivers to create and save their personal settings, which are activated when the key fob opening and starting the car is identified.
How to Change Battery in Nissan Key Fob
It’s all very advanced and technical , but like any other gadget, a keyfob battery has a limited lifespan. It’s important, then, to know how to change the Nissan key fob battery. The first time you do it, it might feel a little tricky, but it’s much easier than it seems, and you’ll undoubtedly get pretty deft at it over time.
Below are the main steps for Nissan key fob battery replacement:
Step 1: Release the mechanical key.
Turn the Nissan key fob over in your hand and look for the little catch on the back. Pull that down, and it will release the stored mechanical key from its position in the fob. You don’t need this key as part of the battery replacement process, but it does need to be out of the way.
Step 2: Pry open the fob into two parts.
At the top end of the key fob, you’ll see two small slits. These are ideal to slot a small flat-head screwdriver into before turning it clockwise to safely and evenly open the casing. You should be able to then pull the fob into two halves.
Step 3: Remove the old battery.
The battery is a round Panasonic 3-volt CR 2032 battery . You will see its metal disc in one half of the key fob. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to pop the battery out safely. A small gap under the battery should be perfect for such a move.
Step 4: Install the new battery.
Take your new CR 2032 battery and place it with the writing on the battery facing downward. Slide it in from the side towards the spring that you can see in the casing. Push the battery toward the spring and ensure that it clicks properly into place.
Step 5: Replace key fob housing.
Next, you need to put the two pieces of the key fob casing back together. Line up the two halves and then click them back into place. It should make quite a loud or at least noticeable click, so ensure all parts are evenly connected.
Step 6: Replace the mechanical key.
Finally, you have to put the spare mechanical key back in its slot, and your Nissan key fob battery should be working fine.
Nissan Key Fob Battery Replacement: What to Watch Out For
Though the procedure is relatively simple. It would be best if you were careful of a few things when doing a Nissan key fob battery replacement:
- When opening the casing into two parts, don't use the grooves on the side of the case as a point to lever your screwdriver. Older keys have these side grooves, but ignore those and focus on the slits at the top.
- When prying open the casing from the top, apply only a little force to avoid damaging the edge or any internal parts.
- Keep your key fob away from anything magnetic while changing the battery. Magnets can cause damage to the inner workings of your Nissan key fob.
- When replacing the battery, ensure that you put the side with the writing "Panasonic CR 2032…" face down into the battery casing. If you put it in the wrong way, it won't work.
How Frequently Should You Change Battery in Nissan Key Fob?
The good news is that your Nissan key fob battery should last for three to four years before needing a change. If you use the fob and its remote functions a lot, the battery may go down faster overall, but it should still reach the lower estimate of three to four years, saving some disaster.
You can take the fob to a dealer and have them do a Nissan key fob battery replacement, but this service typically costs money and isn't necessary. Replacing it yourself is relatively easy, and the batteries are as cheap as $5 for a pack of 4 .
Conclusion: Look After the Nissan Key Fob Battery, and It'll Look After You
Just so long as you keep the Nissan key fob battery healthy, the fob will continue to do its job. Besides battery care, you should also ensure that the fob doesn't get wet or come into contact with magnets, which can damage the internal components. It also is vulnerable to physical impacts, so try to avoid dropping it or exerting too much pressure on its exterior.
You're wrong if you think it's just a cheap bit of plastic. Going back to the dealership to get a replacement key fob when one is broken could cost you up to $400. You might find an alternative locksmith on the outside to help you get a better deal, but for the dealership-dealt 100-percent real McCoy, it will cost you. That said, look after your key fob, and all will be well.
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