Car remotes are an essential part of modern car technology, allowing drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars with ease. However, when the battery in your car remote dies, it can be frustrating and inconvenient.
Knowing what size battery for car remote can save you time and money, as well as ensure that your car remote works properly. However, choosing the wrong size could lead to poor performance or even damage.
In this blog, we’ll discover how to determine the correct battery size for your car remote. It’s essential to get this right, as it’s the first step to keeping your remote functioning optimally.
What Size Battery For Car Remote?
Car remotes primarily use CR2032 coin-cell batteries, often with a diameter of approximately 20mm and a thickness ranging from 1.6mm to 3.2mm. However, it’s essential to note that some remotes may require different sizes like CR2025 or CR2016.
Battery Sizes for Various Car Brands:
| Battery Size | Common Brands/Models |
|---|---|
| CR2032 | Toyota, Honda, Ford |
| CR2025 | BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Chevrolet |
| CR2016 | Chevrolet, Nissan, BMW, Audi |
Types of Batteries Used in Car Remotes
When it comes to car remotes, the choice of battery matters. Different types of batteries offer varying advantages and drawbacks, affecting the performance of your remote. Let’s explore these options:
Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries stand out as a preferred choice, especially for high-end car models such as BMW or Mercedes. Their reputation stems from their impressive attributes: long lifespan and high voltage output.
These characteristics ensure that your car remote operates efficiently for extended periods. However, it’s worth noting that their excellence comes at a cost – they are more expensive than other alternatives.
Alkaline Batteries
Alkaline batteries, on the other hand, present a more budget-friendly option for car remotes. They find common use in lower-end car models, such as some older Ford or Toyota vehicles.
While they offer affordability, they fall short in terms of longevity. You may find yourself replacing them more frequently due to their comparatively shorter lifespan.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries are gaining popularity, especially in modern car remotes and electric vehicles like Tesla. These batteries can be conveniently recharged using a USB cable, contributing to their eco-friendly appeal.
However, they come with a caveat – the need for a power source to recharge. This makes them less suitable if you often park your car in locations without easy access to power outlets.
How to Determine the Right Battery for Your Car Remote
When it comes to keeping your car remote in optimal working condition, selecting the right battery is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the process effectively.
Identify Your Car Remote Type
Start by understanding your car remote’s category. There are two primary types:
- Traditional Remotes: These are basic and use simple batteries.
- Smart Remotes: Advanced remotes with keyless entry, requiring complex batteries.
If you have a traditional car remote, it likely uses a standard coin-cell battery.
Check Your Car Remote’s Manual
Your car remote’s manual is a treasure trove of precise battery information. It not only specifies the battery type but also provides detailed replacement instructions. Trust the manual for accurate guidance.
Inspect the Existing Battery
To further verify your battery needs, open your remote and examine the current battery. Hunt for any markings or labels indicating the battery type.
Jot down any numbers or letters you find, as they’ll be vital for identifying the correct replacement.
Search Online Resources
If your manual is missing or your battery lacks clear markings, don’t fret. The internet offers a wealth of information. Numerous websites offer battery details tailored to your car’s make and model.
Simply visit a car battery website, input your car’s specifics, and uncover the recommended battery.
Consult Your Car Dealership
When in doubt, contact your car dealership’s service department. They have experts who can assist you in determining the right battery.
Provide them with your car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for precise guidance. Call your local Toyota dealership and ask for battery recommendations.
Visit an Auto Parts Store
Head to an auto parts store with your old battery or the information you’ve gathered. The store staff can match it with the correct replacement battery.
They can also offer advice on reputable brands. Bring your old CR2032 battery to an auto parts store for assistance.
Consider Quality and Brand
Choose a trusted battery brand to ensure longevity. High-quality batteries may cost a bit more but are worth it for reliability.
Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to powering your car remote. Opt for a well-known brand like Duracell or Energizer for your battery.
Replace the Battery Correctly
Once you have the new battery, replace it by following the remote’s instructions carefully. Pay attention to the battery’s orientation, and avoid touching the battery’s contacts to prevent damage.
Follow the remote’s manual to open the battery compartment and insert the new CR2032 battery.
Test Your Car Remote
After replacing the battery, test your car remote to ensure it’s working correctly. If it’s functioning as expected, you’ve successfully determined and replaced the right battery for your car remote.
Press the buttons on your remote to confirm that your car responds to the commands.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Battery for a Car Remote
Voltage Requirement
The voltage of the battery must match your car remote’s requirement. For example, if your remote requires a 3V battery, using a 1.5V battery won’t provide enough power, while a 6V battery could cause damage.
Battery Life
Consider how long the battery will last before it needs replacing. A battery with a longer life will require less frequent replacements, saving you time and effort. For instance, lithium batteries often last longer than alkaline ones.
Compatibility
The battery must not only fit inside your car remote but also be compatible with its circuitry. Using an incompatible battery could lead to poor performance or even damage to the remote.
Cost
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that cheaper batteries may not last as long and could end up costing more in the long run.
It’s often worth investing in a slightly more expensive battery for better performance and longevity.
Availability
Ensure the type of battery you need is readily available at local stores or online. It can be frustrating to find out your remote’s battery type is hard to find when it needs replacing.
Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of the battery type. Rechargeable or recyclable batteries are more eco-friendly options as they result in less waste.
Steps to Replace a Battery in Car Remote
Open the Car Remote
Most car remotes have a small screw or a clip that you can remove to open them. Some remotes might require a small screwdriver. Be gentle to avoid damaging the remote.
Remove the Old Battery
Once the remote is open, you’ll see the old battery. It’s usually held in place by a small clip. Carefully remove the battery, making sure not to damage any of the internal components of the remote.
Insert the New Battery
Now, take your new battery and place it in the same spot as the old one. Make sure it’s facing the right way – most batteries have a ‘+’ symbol on one side that should be facing up.
Test the Remote
After inserting the new battery, close up your remote and test it with your car. If it’s working correctly, you’re done! If not, double-check that the battery is inserted correctly and that it’s the right type for your remote.
FAQs
Can I use a CR2032 battery for all car remotes?
No, not all car remotes use CR2032 batteries; some may require CR2025 or CR2016 batteries or other sizes.
Is it necessary to consult the car manual for battery replacement?
Yes, consulting the car manual is recommended for accurate information on battery type and replacement instructions.
Are all car remote batteries rechargeable?
No, not all car remote batteries are rechargeable; many use one-time-use batteries like CR2032, CR2025, or CR2016.
Are rechargeable batteries eco-friendly?
Yes, rechargeable batteries are considered eco-friendly as they can be reused multiple times, reducing waste.
Does a higher voltage battery damage the car remote?
Yes, using a battery with a voltage higher than the remote’s requirement can damage the car remotely.
Conclusion
Choosing and replacing a car remote battery can seem daunting, but with this guide, it should be a breeze.
Remember to consider factors like voltage requirement, battery life, and environmental impact when selecting a new battery. Happy driving!
