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How To Change Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery: Easy Steps
Can you change a Jeep Wrangler key fob battery yourself? Yes, absolutely! It’s a simple process that doesn’t require special tools or a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from identifying the correct battery to making sure your Jeep Wrangler remote works perfectly again.
Why Your Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Over time, the battery in your Jeep Wrangler key fob will inevitably drain. This can be due to regular use, age, or even accidental button presses. When the Jeep Wrangler key fob battery dead, you’ll notice your remote becoming less responsive. You might have to stand closer to your Jeep to lock or unlock it, or the buttons might stop working altogether. Don’t worry; this is a common issue, and replacing the battery is a straightforward fix for most Jeep Wrangler remote battery problems.
Identifying the Correct Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Type
The first crucial step in the Jeep Wrangler key fob replacement process is knowing the correct battery type. Different Jeep Wrangler models and years can use slightly different key fobs, which in turn require specific batteries.
Common Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Sizes
The most common Jeep Wrangler fob battery size is the CR2032. This is a 3-volt lithium coin cell battery. You’ll find this battery in many Jeep models, including recent Wranglers. However, it’s always best to confirm the exact type for your specific vehicle.
How to Confirm Your Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Type
The easiest way to confirm your Jeep Wrangler key fob battery type is to:
- Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source. It will detail the specific battery needed for your key fob.
- Inspect your current battery: Once you open the key fob (we’ll cover this next), you’ll see the battery type printed on its surface.
- Look at online resources: Many automotive forums and parts websites list the correct battery types for various Jeep Wrangler years and models.
For example, while CR2032 is prevalent, some older models might use a CR2016 or another small coin cell. Always double-check to avoid purchasing the wrong battery.
Tools Needed for Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Change
You won’t need a full toolbox for this task. The necessary Jeep Wrangler key fob battery tools are minimal and readily available:
- A small flathead screwdriver or a plastic prying tool: This is essential for gently separating the key fob casing. A plastic tool is preferred to prevent scratching the fob.
- The new battery: Make sure you have the correct Jeep Wrangler key fob battery type and size.
- A clean, dry surface: To work on and avoid losing small parts.
- (Optional) Tweezers: To help extract the old battery if it’s stuck.
How to Open Jeep Wrangler Key Fob: Step-by-Step Guide
Opening your Jeep Wrangler key fob is the most delicate part of the process. The key is to be gentle and patient.
Step 1: Locate the Seam
Most Jeep Wrangler key fobs are made of two pieces that snap together. Look closely for a thin seam running around the perimeter of the fob.
Step 2: Insert the Prying Tool
- Find a small notch or crevice along the seam, usually on the side or at the top near the key ring.
- Carefully insert the tip of your small flathead screwdriver or plastic prying tool into this notch.
Step 3: Gently Pry Open the Fob
- Twist the screwdriver slightly or apply gentle upward pressure with the prying tool.
- You should hear a faint click as the plastic clips begin to release.
- Work your way around the seam, carefully inserting the tool and gently prying. Be patient; don’t force it. If you encounter resistance, try a different spot along the seam.
- The two halves of the key fob should begin to separate.
Step 4: Remove the Battery Cover (if applicable)
Some Jeep Wrangler key fobs have a small battery cover that slides off once the main casing is open. If yours does, slide it off carefully.
Step 5: Carefully Remove the Old Battery
- Once the fob is open, you’ll see the coin cell battery.
- Note the orientation of the battery (which side is positive and which is negative). Usually, the positive (+) side is facing up.
- You can often gently pry the battery out with your fingernail or the tip of your screwdriver. If it’s stuck, use tweezers to carefully extract it.
Replacing the Jeep Wrangler Remote Battery
With the old battery out and the new one in hand, it’s time for the replacement.
Step 1: Insert the New Battery
- Take your new Jeep Wrangler key fob battery.
- Ensure you are inserting it in the correct orientation, matching the positive (+) side to the positive terminal inside the fob. This is critical for the fob to function.
Step 2: Secure the Battery
- The battery should sit snugly in its compartment.
- If your fob has a battery cover, slide it back into place.
Step 3: Reassemble the Key Fob
- Align the two halves of the key fob casing.
- Gently press them together around the edges. You should hear the clips snap back into place, securing the two halves.
- Ensure there are no gaps between the casing pieces.
Testing Your Newly Replaced Battery
Before you put your key fob away, test it to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Stand at a normal distance from your Jeep Wrangler.
- Press the lock button. Your Jeep should lock, and the lights might flash.
- Press the unlock button. Your Jeep should unlock.
- If you have a panic button, test that as well.
If the buttons are responsive and your Jeep reacts as expected, congratulations! You’ve successfully changed your Jeep Wrangler key fob battery.
What If Your Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work?
If your key fob is still not working after replacing the battery, don’t panic. Several other issues could be at play.
Common Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check Battery Orientation: The most common mistake is inserting the battery backward. Open the fob again and verify the positive (+) and negative (-) sides are correctly aligned.
- Try a Different New Battery: While unlikely, the new battery you purchased might be faulty. Try a brand-new battery from a different pack.
- Inspect for Damage: Carefully examine the key fob for any visible cracks or damage to the internal circuitry or buttons.
- Clean Battery Terminals: Ensure the metal contacts where the battery sits are clean and free of corrosion. You can gently clean them with a pencil eraser or a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol (allow it to dry completely).
- Check for Interference: Sometimes, other electronic devices or strong radio signals can interfere with your key fob. Try testing the fob in a different location.
Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Programming
In most cases, simply replacing the battery does not require Jeep Wrangler key fob programming. The fob’s internal programming is linked to your Jeep’s security system and shouldn’t be affected by a battery change.
However, if you’ve had to purchase a completely new key fob (e.g., if your old one was lost or damaged beyond repair) or if your key fob is still not working after replacing the battery, you might need to perform Jeep Wrangler key fob programming.
When is Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Programming Necessary?
- New Key Fob: If you bought a brand-new, unprogrammed key fob, it needs to be paired with your vehicle.
- Key Fob Not Functioning: If troubleshooting steps fail and the fob still doesn’t work, a programming issue might be the cause.
- Lost Key Fob: When you lose a key fob, it’s often recommended to reprogram the remaining ones to prevent the lost fob from being used.
How to Program a Jeep Wrangler Key Fob:
The process for Jeep Wrangler key fob programming can vary slightly depending on the model year. Here’s a general procedure that often works for many Jeep Wranglers:
Important Note: You will need all existing key fobs for your Jeep during this process, as it often reprograms the entire set.
- Get in your Jeep and close the doors.
- Insert the key into the ignition.
- Turn the ignition to the RUN position (don’t start the engine). Leave it in RUN for at least 3 seconds.
- Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
- Remove the key from the ignition.
- Insert the key into the ignition again.
- Turn the ignition to the RUN position for at least 3 seconds.
- Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
- Remove the key from the ignition.
- Insert the key into the ignition again.
- Turn the ignition to the RUN position for at least 3 seconds.
- Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
- Remove the key from the ignition.
- Insert the key into the ignition one last time.
- Turn the ignition to the RUN position.
- Listen for a chime or beep. This indicates the Jeep is in programming mode. If you don’t hear it, you might need to adjust the timing or try the sequence again.
- Take one of your key fobs and press the LOCK button. You should hear a chime or beep confirming it’s programmed.
- If you have another key fob to program, press the LOCK button on it now. You should hear another chime.
- Once all fobs are programmed, turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
- Test all key fobs.
Where to Find Specific Programming Instructions:
- Owner’s Manual: Always the best place to start for precise instructions for your specific Jeep Wrangler model year.
- Online Jeep Forums: Enthusiast communities often share detailed programming guides and troubleshooting tips.
- Dealership or Automotive Locksmith: If you’re uncomfortable performing the programming yourself or if the general method doesn’t work, a professional can assist you.
Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Cost
The Jeep Wrangler key fob battery cost is generally quite low.
- CR2032 batteries are widely available at convenience stores, drugstores, supermarkets, and electronics stores.
- You can typically buy a single battery for around $1 to $3.
- Buying a multi-pack can be more cost-effective, with prices ranging from $5 to $10 for a pack of 5 or 10.
This makes a DIY battery change a very budget-friendly maintenance task.
When to Consider Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Replacement
While battery replacement is common, sometimes the entire key fob may need to be replaced.
Reasons for Full Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Replacement:
- Physical Damage: If your key fob has been dropped, crushed, or has suffered water damage, the internal components may be irreparable.
- Worn Buttons: Over years of use, the rubber buttons on the fob can wear out, tear, or become unresponsive.
- Lost Key Fob: If you lose your only key fob, you’ll need to purchase a new one.
- Battery Corrosion: Severe corrosion inside the fob from a leaky battery can damage the circuit board.
Purchasing a Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Replacement:
You have a few options when buying a Jeep Wrangler key fob replacement:
- Dealership: This is usually the most expensive option but guarantees a genuine Mopar part that will work perfectly.
- Online Automotive Parts Retailers: Many websites sell aftermarket and OEM-quality key fobs for Jeep Wranglers. Ensure the product listing matches your specific model year.
- Specialty Key Fob Websites: Some companies specialize in selling replacement key fobs and transmitters.
Once you have a new key fob, you will likely need to follow the Jeep Wrangler key fob programming steps mentioned earlier to pair it with your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions people have about changing their Jeep Wrangler key fob battery:
Q1: How often should I change my Jeep Wrangler key fob battery?
A1: Most Jeep Wrangler key fob batteries last anywhere from 1 to 3 years, depending on usage. If you notice your fob becoming less responsive, it’s a good time to consider replacing the battery, even if it’s not yet completely dead.
Q2: Can I use a rechargeable battery in my Jeep Wrangler key fob?
A2: No, coin cell lithium batteries like the CR2032 are not rechargeable. They are designed for single use. Using a rechargeable battery that isn’t the correct type could damage your key fob.
Q3: My Jeep Wrangler key fob isn’t working after changing the battery. What else could be wrong?
A3: Besides ensuring the battery is correctly oriented, check for physical damage to the fob, clean the battery terminals, or try a different new battery. If problems persist, the fob itself might be faulty, or it may require reprogramming.
Q4: Will changing the battery reset my Jeep’s settings?
A4: No, changing the key fob battery will not reset any of your Jeep’s vehicle settings, such as radio presets, seat memory, or engine diagnostics.
Q5: Where can I buy a Jeep Wrangler key fob battery?
A5: Jeep Wrangler key fob batteries (commonly CR2032) are widely available at most grocery stores, drugstores, electronics stores (like Best Buy), auto parts stores, and online retailers like Amazon.
Q6: What is the voltage of a typical Jeep Wrangler key fob battery?
A6: The most common Jeep Wrangler key fob battery, the CR2032, has a nominal voltage of 3 volts.
By following these simple steps, you can easily maintain your Jeep Wrangler’s key fob and ensure it functions reliably for years to come. Happy Jeeping!