Honda Accord Key Fob Battery — Type & 2-Minute Replacement
Most Honda Accord smart keys (push-button-start models, 2013 and newer) use a CR2032 3-volt coin cell. Older flip/clicker remotes use a CR1620 (some 2008–2012 fobs use a CR1616). To be sure, pop the fob open and read the number printed on the old cell. Replacing it takes about two minutes, costs a few dollars, and does not require any reprogramming.
Which battery does my Accord key fob take?
It’s set by fob style, not just model year — so a higher trim from an early year can use a smart key while a base trim of the same year uses a bladed remote. Match by style, then confirm by the code on the old cell:
| Fob style | Trims / years (typical) | Coin cell |
|---|---|---|
| Smart key — oval remote, push-button start, keyless entry | EX-L, Touring, higher trims; ~2013–present | CR2032 |
| Bladed flip / remote key — flip-out metal key | LX, Sport, lower trims | CR1620 |
| Older gen-8 remote (2008–2012) | base remotes of that era | CR1616 (verify — some are CR1620) |
The printed code on the dead cell is the final word. CR2032 / CR1620 / CR1616 are all 3V lithium coin cells but different thicknesses — the last two digits are millimetres of height (2032 = 3.2 mm, 1620 = 2.0 mm, 1616 = 1.6 mm). Using the wrong thickness means a loose or crushed fit, so match the number exactly.
Replacing an older flip / bladed remote (CR1620 / CR1616)
- Find the seam or screw. Many flip keys have a small Phillips screw near the keyring loop; others just split along a seam.
- Open the shell. Remove the screw (if present) and gently pry the halves apart at the seam.
- Pop out the circuit module if needed to reach the cell, note the orientation, and swap in the matching CR1620 (or CR1616 for some 2008–2012 remotes).
- Reassemble, replace the screw, and test.
Do I need to reprogram the fob after changing the battery?
No. The fob’s transponder ID is stored on its circuit board, not the battery — so swapping the coin cell doesn’t erase anything. Your remote keeps working immediately. (Reprogramming is only needed when you buy a brand-new fob or one is lost — that’s a different job.)
My fob still doesn’t work after a new battery — now what?
- Re-seat the cell — the most common miss. Make sure it’s the correct side up and fully under the clip.
- Check you used the right cell (and that the new one isn’t a dud from an old multipack).
- Clean the contacts — a tiny bit of corrosion or a fingerprint’s oil can break contact; wipe with a dry cloth.
- Try the buttons up close — if it works at 1 foot and not at 20, the fob may be failing, not the battery.
- Use the mechanical key / push-to-start backup — a dead fob still starts the car: hold the fob against the start button (smart key) or use the hidden blade to unlock. If nothing works after a known-good battery, the fob itself or the car’s receiver may need a dealer/locksmith.
What to buy
You only need a 3V lithium coin cell in the right size — any major brand (Energizer, Duracell, Panasonic, Sony/Murata) is fine. Multipacks are the best value since you’ll do this again (and other remotes around the house use the same cells).
- CR2032 (smart keys, 2013+): shop CR2032 on Amazon →
- CR1620 (flip/clicker remotes): shop CR1620 on Amazon →
- CR1616 (some 2008–2012 remotes): shop CR1616 on Amazon →
If the problem turns out to be the car’s battery (engine won’t crank, not just the remote), see the battery replacement guide and the best battery picks.
Replace a smart key battery (CR2032) — 2-minute steps
Most Accords (2013 and newer) are smart keys. Here’s the swap, start to finish:
- Slide out the emergency key — press the small release latch on the back and pull the metal blade free.
- Split the case: insert the metal blade (or a coin or plastic pry tool) into the seam where the blade came out and gently twist — don't pry sideways. The two halves pop apart.
- Note the orientation, then lift the old cell out. On most Accord fobs the + (writing) side faces down toward the circuit board — check before you remove it.
- Drop in the new CR2032 the same way (correct side up), pressing it under the retaining clip until it's flush.
- Snap the case shut, reinsert the emergency blade, and test all the buttons from a few feet away.