An Infiniti key fob disassembled on a workbench for a battery replacement project.

How To Replace Battery In Infiniti Key Fob: A Simple Guide

Last Updated on October 17, 2026

You can perform a successful How To Replace Battery In Infiniti Key Fob procedure in about five minutes using a flat-head screwdriver. This task is considered easy for most owners, though it requires care to avoid scratching the plastic casing of the remote. You should always check your owner’s manual for the specific battery type required for your model, as this varies by model — check the label on the back of your fob or the official Infiniti owner’s guide for the correct specifications.

Tools to replace your Infiniti battery

ItemHow muchWhy it’s neededA substitute
Flat-head screwdriver1 small toolTo pry the caseButter knife
CR2025 or CR20321 new unitPowers the signalnone — don’t swap this
Soft microfiber cloth1 small pieceProtects the plasticClean paper towel
Clean workspace1 flat areaKeeps parts visiblenone — don’t swap this
Tweezers1 pairRemoves tight batteriesNeedle-nose pliers

Preparing Your Remote

  • Move to a clean, well-lit surface where small screws or clips won’t be lost.
  • Ensure your hands are dry and free of oils to maintain a good grip.
  • Switch off the engine and keep the fob away from the ignition slot.
  • The most common mistake is forcing the casing open; if it resists, check for a hidden screw.
  • If your fob has a metal key inside, remove it first by sliding the release switch.

Replacing the Internal Cell

  1. Slide the release button on the back of your remote to remove the mechanical metal key from the fob body.
  2. Insert your flat-head screwdriver into the small notch left behind by the metal key to gently pry the two halves apart.
  3. Work the screwdriver slowly around the edges of the fob to pop the plastic clips open without snapping the plastic tabs.
  4. Lift the back cover away carefully to reveal the internal circuit board and the circular coin-style battery sitting inside.
  5. Use your fingers or small tweezers to slide the old battery out from under its metal retaining clip or housing.
  6. Wipe the battery contacts with a dry cloth to remove any dust or corrosion that might block the electrical flow.
  7. Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing the direction shown on the inside of the fob casing.
  8. Align the two halves of the fob and press them together firmly until you hear the plastic clips click into place.
  9. Reinsert the mechanical metal key into the slot and test the lock and unlock buttons to confirm the remote works.

Verifying Successful Operation

You’ll know the process worked when the vehicle responds to the fob from a distance of at least 15 feet. If the car doesn’t respond, ensure the battery is seated flat and the metal contact prong is touching the top of the cell. If the light on the fob doesn’t blink when you press a button, the battery may be upside down. If the buttons still fail to function after you flip the battery, the remote might require professional programming at an authorized service center.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

What happenedWhyWhat to do
Case won’t openHidden screw presentLook for tiny Phillips screw
Fob feels looseClips not alignedPress edges until they click
Buttons don’t workBattery is backwardFlip the battery over
Light doesn’t flashBattery is deadTest with a new battery
Signal is still weakDirty contactsClean contacts with alcohol

Frequency of Battery Changes

You should typically replace the battery every two to three years depending on usage. If you use the remote to open the trunk or start the engine frequently, the battery will drain faster than normal. A weak signal or the need to stand very close to the car door to unlock it are the primary signs that the power is running low and a replacement is necessary.

Can I use a different battery size?

No, you must use the exact size specified in your manual. Using the wrong size can damage the internal contacts or prevent the fob casing from closing properly, which could lead to a permanent failure of the remote.

Is it safe to open the fob myself?

Yes, it’s safe as long as you don’t touch the internal circuit board with metal tools. Keep the board clean and dry, and avoid using excessive force when prying the plastic shell to prevent cracking the casing.

Why is my key fob not working after changing the battery?

It’s likely the battery is inserted incorrectly or the contacts are dirty. Ensure the positive (+) side is facing the correct way and check that the metal prongs are making firm contact with the battery surface.

How long does a new battery last?

A new battery usually lasts about two to three years with standard daily use. This timeframe varies by model — check the label on your specific fob documentation if you notice a faster drain than expected.

What happens if I drop the fob in water?

If the fob gets wet, you must open it immediately and dry the circuit board with a soft cloth. Don’t use a hairdryer, as the heat can damage the sensitive electronic components inside the plastic housing.

Does it matter which brand of battery I buy?

It’s best to use a high-quality brand to ensure a consistent voltage. Cheap or off-brand batteries often have a shorter lifespan and may not provide the steady power needed to keep your remote working reliably.

Battery Infiniti, in short

Once you’ve snapped the casing back together, test the buttons near your car to ensure everything works perfectly. If the remote doesn’t respond, double-check that the battery is seated correctly. You’ll be glad you handled this simple maintenance yourself, saving you both time and a trip to the dealership.

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