If you are driving a Volkswagen car, you can benefit from all the features and conveniences of your vehicle, such as having a VW Key fob on hand.
Knowing how to perform a VW key fob battery replacement will come in handy if your VW key fob battery dies out.
It’s good to know that anyone can perform a VW key fob battery replacement efficiently and easily with no costly professional assistance.
VW key fob batteries do not need to be replaced often. However, a VW key fob battery replacement may be necessary when you find that the battery no longer has the power or ability to power the key fob.
In this article are steps to safely perform a VW key fob battery replacement.
How to Choose the Right Battery for VW Key Fob Battery Replacement?
The most challenging part of a VW key fob battery replacement is determining the exact battery your VW key fob has. If you’re not certain about the specifications of your car’s key fob, we’ve got you.
Choosing the right VW key fob battery is sometimes difficult because one may not have a car manual handy, and VW key fob batteries are unique to just about any car manufacturer brand.
So we’ve created this helpful guide to get you ready for your next purchase of a new VW key fob battery.
- If you have an old VW vehicle using a fob similar to a standard key used in Volkswagen cars, the battery will likely be either a CR1632 or CR2032.
- If your car is made after 1999, your VW key fob uses a CR2032 battery.
How to Perform a VW Key Fob Battery Replacement
The first step is to get the CR1632 or CR2032 battery based on the year your VW was manufactured. This is a round shape that looks like a small disc. It’s also necessary to have a tool to remove the battery, such as a flat blade screwdriver.
- Press the button on the metal key to open it.
- On the key, right under the Volkswagen logo, you will see the battery panel.
- Press the panel after you have emptied the key cavity.
- Remove the battery panel.
- Identify the battery location.
- Apply force with the prying tool while it is inserted into the slot.
- Take out old batteries.
- Replace the new battery in the slot.
- Now you should have the new battery installed.
- Put the battery panel back on.
- Close the key.
- You can now use your fully functional key fob as usual.
Check out this video for more tips on how to perform a VW key fob battery replacement
How to Replace VW Key Fob Battery (Alternative Method)
Here is an alternative method of performing a VW key fob battery replacement.
- Press down the VW key fob to release the emergency key.
- Next, insert your fingers into a seam located between the top of the Volkswagen key fob and its base. When you are there, start to pull away from the pieces of plastic until they begin to separate from each other.
- Replace the battery with a new one in the key fob. The positively charged side of a new battery should face downwards.
- Reassemble the VW key fob remote tightly. Ensure that there aren’t any gaps.
Also Read: Car won’t start? Causes and How To Fix
How to Start the VW Car With a Dead VW Key Fob Battery
What if you need to get somewhere and your Key fob remote isn’t working? Worry not! You’ll be able to get to where you’re going before getting a battery replacement.
With VWs keyless entry or push-button entry, the emergency key does not require a battery.
If your vehicle has a keyless lock or push-button start feature, hold the emergency key beneath the ignition and press it a couple of times to start your engine.
VW Key Fob Not Working After VW Key Fob Battery Replacement
If the VW Key Fob doesn’t work after the VW key fob battery replacement, there’s a good chance there may be something wrong with the Key Fob.
The key itself may be failing, or there is an interference issue with the electronics. There is a possibility that you can solve this on your own, but it is always best to let an expert handle the job for you.
Electronic components may be difficult to repair if you do not have enough knowledge about what to do or how to fix them correctly. They might also prove dangerous if not handled properly.
Also Read: How Long Can You Drive With a Bad Alternator
Symptoms of a Dying Key Fob Battery
Here are some symptoms of a dying key fob battery so that you will know when to change it before it dies out completely
1. Poor Signal Strength
Poor signal strength of the key fob to unlock your car is a sign that the key fob battery is dying out. If you need to approach your vehicle from up to 20 feet for your key fob to unlock the car, you may need to replace its battery.
2. Key Not Responding
With a fully functional key fob, doors should open with only a single button press. However, suppose you’re having to use some force when opening your car door.
In that case, you need a key fob battery replacement. one thing that can help you figure out that it’s time for a key fob change is remembering that a clicky remote means a faulty connection between the key and the car it unlocks.
3. Inconsistent Results
You might be able to initially program your key fob successfully 95% of the time. Nevertheless, you might want to take a look at it when that percentage is no longer as strong; you should also be aware of how long it takes your vehicle to unlock or lock.
You may need to change the battery in the remote control unit, or there may need to be an update or modification in the key fob’s programming.
Frequently Asked Questions – VW Key Fob Battery Replacement
What Battery Does a VW Key Fob Use?
A VW key fob uses a CR2032 battery. It is easy to replace a VW’s battery. However, there are some key steps to pay attention to. The first step is: to obtain a new CR2032 battery and the right screwdriver for this job. It certainly isn’t advisable to harm the key fob; therefore, cover the flat end of your precision screwdriver with a piece of clear tape.
Can I Use CR2032 in VW Key Fob?
Yes, VW key fob uses CR2032 batteries. However, keep in mind that the CR2032 battery is different from the MEB ID battery.
Can I Replace the Key Fob Battery Myself?
Yes, you can replace the key fob battery yourself. The key fob battery replacement process is much simpler than you can imagine. A flat tip screwdriver, new batteries, and some knowledge are all you need.
How Long Does a VW Key Fob Battery Last?
VW key fob battery lasts about three to four years with consistent usage. However, where the key fob is stored can impact this lifespan. It isn’t recommended that car owners keep their fobs in their cars for a long time or place them on a hanger near the vehicle. Doing both could reduce the amount of charge you get from your keys in the future.
Will a CR2025 Work for a CR2032?
Consider the battery type if you plan to use the CR2025 and CR2032 in a battery compartment. The resistance won’t be a concern regarding CR2025 and CR2032, but you might want to consider if one is appropriate or not based on your device’s specifications? You may opt for a higher capacity – i.e over 2500mAh concerning either for extended runtime.
How Much Does a Key Fob Battery Cost?
Key Fob Batteries typically cost about $10. Key fob Batteries are usually swapped for free by dealers and shops who sell batteries since it will only take a few seconds.
Why Does My Key Fob Not Work After Replacing the Battery?
There’s a chance that your car’s remote was reset when your battery was changed. Likewise, a key fob could be reset when certain buttons are pressed. In some instances, when multiple key fobs are not working, it is an indication that the key fob for your car has been reset.
Can a Dead Key Fob Drain Car Battery?
Key fobs always attempt to connect with a car. While this drains the battery slightly, it isn’t likely to be enough to drain a car’s batteries in good condition.
How Long Should a VW Key Battery Last?
Battery replacement for key fobs is necessary every three to four years, but the frequency will depend on their use and the quality of their construction.
Will Dead Battery in Key Fob Cause Car Not to Start?
A keyless entry system will not let you ignite the engine if it can’t verify that your key fob is in your possession. So, for example, if your vehicle’s key fob happens to have a failed battery, the car won’t recognize that the fob is in the vehicle, and as a result, the engine won’t start.
What Happens if the Key Fob Dies While Driving?
If you are driving and your vehicle’s key fob fails, no harm will come to the vehicle because it doesn’t cause a loss of control. In other words, without the key fob, the car can still function in terms of opening and starting the engine, but only if you are in motion. It does not affect the vehicle’s ability to start or modify the engine when driving or parked.
Can You Program a Key Fob Yourself?
It is possible to program some types of key fobs or car remotes used with entry-level cars. To do so, you will need to use the manufacturer’s programming method and if your remote doesn’t come with instructions, then search online for resources that can help walk you through how to reprogram it.