How to Change Hyundai Key Fob Battery

For Hyundai vehicle owners, the key fob is an essential tool for convenience and security, enabling keyless entry and ignition, among other features.

Like all battery-operated devices, the key fob requires periodic battery replacement to maintain its functionality.

Published: February 28, 2024.

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First Signs of Weak Hyundai Key Fob Battery

Recognizing the early signs of a weakening key fob battery can prevent you from being locked out of your vehicle or facing difficulties in starting it.

Here are the most common indicators that your Hyundai key fob battery might need replacement:

  • Reduced Range: If you have to be closer to your vehicle than usual for the key fob to work, it might be a sign that the battery is dying.
  • Inconsistent Operation: If the key fob functions sporadically or requires multiple presses to respond, it's likely that the battery is weakening.
  • Warning Message: Some Hyundai models are equipped with a dashboard warning light or message that alerts you when your key fob battery is low.
  • Total Non-Function: If your key fob stops working altogether, the battery could be completely dead, or there might be another issue with the fob.

 Most Common Key Fob Batteries

The type of battery required for your Hyundai key fob typically depends on the model and year of your vehicle. However, the most common batteries used in Hyundai key fobs are the CR2032 and the CR2025. These are 3-volt lithium coin cell batteries, chosen for their long-lasting power and reliability in small electronic devices.

  • CR2032: This is the most widely used battery in Hyundai key fobs, known for its slightly thicker profile compared to the CR2025.
  • CR2025: Slightly thinner than the CR2032, this battery is used in key fobs that require a slimmer profile.

Always refer to your Hyundai's owner manual or the existing battery in your key fob to confirm the correct battery type before purchasing a replacement.

How to Replace Your Hyundai Key Fob Battery

Replacing the battery in your Hyundai key fob is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Follow these steps to ensure a successful replacement:

  • Open the Key Fob: Locate a small notch or slot on the side of the key fob. Use a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry the key fob apart. Some models may have a release button that opens the key fob when pressed.
  • Identify the Battery: Once open, locate the battery and note its orientation. This ensures you’ll place the new battery in the correct position.
  • Remove the Old Battery: Use a small screwdriver or a non-metallic tool to carefully remove the old battery. Avoid using metal tools directly on the battery to prevent short-circuiting.
  • Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the key fob, ensuring it’s correctly oriented (positive side facing up).
  • Reassemble the Key Fob: Snap the two halves of the key fob back together. Make sure it's securely closed to avoid any damage or moisture ingress.

Do You Have To Reprogram Hyundai Key Fob After Battery Replacement

No, you typically do not have to reprogram your Hyundai key fob after replacing the battery. The key fob's programming is designed to be retained even when the battery is removed, meaning it should work as normal once the new battery is installed. Here's a brief overview of what you need to know:

Key Fob Memory

Hyundai key fobs are equipped with a permanent memory that stores the programming information required to communicate with your vehicle. This information remains intact even when the battery is completely removed.

Therefore, replacing the battery does not erase or alter the key fob's programming.

Steps After Battery Replacement

Once you've replaced the battery in your Hyundai key fob, you should be able to use it immediately without any reprogramming. Here are the usual steps:

  • Test the Key Fob: After installing the new battery, try locking and unlocking your vehicle with the key fob to ensure it's working correctly.
  • No Synchronization Needed: For the majority of Hyundai models, no synchronization or additional steps are required to start using the key fob again.

Exceptions and Troubleshooting

While reprogramming isn't normally necessary, there are a few situations where additional steps might be helpful:

  • Key Fob Not Working: If the key fob doesn't work after the battery replacement, ensure the battery is correctly installed (positive side up) and that the battery itself isn't faulty. Also, check that the key fob's internal components are clean and undamaged.
  • Re-synchronization: In rare cases, if the key fob seems to be unresponsive, you might need to re-synchronize it with your vehicle. This usually involves a simple process, such as pressing a sequence of buttons on the key fob or turning the ignition on and off a specific number of times with the key fob inserted or nearby. However, this is more the exception than the rule.

For Hyundai vehicles, changing the key fob battery is a straightforward process that doesn't typically require reprogramming. The key fobs are designed to retain their programming information, ensuring seamless use after battery replacement.

If you encounter any issues with your key fob after changing the battery, consult your Hyundai owner's manual or contact a Hyundai dealership for assistance.

Popular Hyundai Models and Their Key Fob Batteries

Hyundai vehicles are known for their reliability, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, including the convenience of their key fobs. Over time, the battery in a Hyundai key fob will require replacement.

To assist Hyundai owners, here’s a comprehensive list of popular Hyundai models and the specific key fob batteries they require.

Hyundai Sonata

  • 2011-2014 Models: CR2032
  • 2015-Present Models: CR2032

The Sonata has consistently used CR2032 batteries across different generations, accommodating its push-button start and keyless entry features.

Hyundai Elantra

  • 2011-2016 Models: CR2032
  • 2017-Present Models: CR2032

Similar to the Sonata, the Elantra uses CR2032 batteries for its key fobs, ensuring long-lasting performance for keyless operations.

Hyundai Tucson

  • 2010-2015 Models: CR2032
  • 2016-Present Models: CR2032

The Tucson, Hyundai’s popular compact SUV, also relies on CR2032 batteries for its key fob functionality.

Hyundai Santa Fe

  • 2013-2018 Models (Santa Fe Sport included): CR2032
  • 2019-Present Models: CR2032

Both the standard and Sport versions of the Santa Fe use CR2032 batteries, supporting features like remote start and keyless entry.

Hyundai Kona

  • 2018-Present Models: CR2032

Hyundai’s subcompact SUV, the Kona, uses CR2032 batteries in its key fobs, ensuring easy access and convenience for drivers.

Hyundai Palisade

  • 2020-Present Models: CR2032

As Hyundai's newest addition to its SUV lineup, the Palisade uses CR2032 batteries to power its advanced key fob features.

Hyundai Veloster

  • 2011-2017 Models: CR2032
  • 2019-Present Models: CR2032

The Veloster, known for its unique three-door configuration, utilizes CR2032 batteries in its key fobs for seamless entry and start functions.

Hyundai Accent

  • 2011-2017 Models: CR2032
  • 2018-Present Models: CR2032

The Accent, Hyundai’s compact car, sticks with the CR2032 battery for its key fob, aligning with the rest of the lineup for uniformity and convenience.

Hyundai Ioniq

  • 2017-Present Models: CR2032

Hyundai's eco-friendly model, the Ioniq, which includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric versions, also uses CR2032 batteries for its keyless access and features.

As one can see, the CR2032 battery is the most common across Hyundai’s lineup, and it is known for its longevity and reliability in powering key fobs.

When replacing your Hyundai key fob battery, ensure to purchase the correct type and follow the proper replacement procedure to maintain functionality.

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How to Start Hyundai With Dead Key Fob Battery?

Starting a Hyundai vehicle when the key fob battery is dead may seem challenging, but Hyundai designs its vehicles with alternative methods to ensure you can still operate your car. Here’s a guide on how to start your Hyundai with a dead key fob battery, ensuring you're not stranded or unable to use your vehicle.

Step 1: Gain Entry to Your Vehicle

Even with a dead key fob battery, you should be able to access your Hyundai. Most Hyundai key fobs have a mechanical key hidden inside them for such situations. Here's how to use it:

  • Locate the Release Button: Look for a small button or switch on the key fob. When pressed, this button will release a mechanical key.
  • Use the Mechanical Key: Insert this key into the keyhole on the driver’s door (if equipped) and turn it to unlock the door manually.

Step 2: Starting the Vehicle

Once inside the vehicle, starting it will depend on whether your Hyundai has a push-button start or a traditional key ignition.

For Push-Button Start Systems

If your Hyundai is equipped with a push-button start system, you can still start your car by following these steps:

  • Find the Key Fob Recognition Area: In many Hyundai models, there's a designated area inside the car (often on the center console or near the steering column) where you can place the key fob to ensure the car recognizes it, even with a dead battery. This area is typically marked with a key symbol.
  • Press the Start Button with the Key Fob: Hold the key fob against the marked area, then press the brake pedal (or clutch pedal in manual transmission cars) and push the start/stop button at the same time. This action should start the car’s engine.

For Vehicles with an Ignition Slot

  • Insert the Key Fob into the Ignition Slot: Some Hyundai models might have an ignition slot where you can insert the key fob directly. If your vehicle has this feature, insert the key fob into the slot, and then start the car as you normally would.

Step 3: Replace the Key Fob Battery

After you've started your vehicle, it's advisable to replace the key fob battery as soon as possible to restore its full functionality. Refer to the vehicle’s manual or consult a professional for the correct battery type and replacement procedure.

Tips and Considerations

  • Battery Type: Most Hyundai key fobs use a CR2032 battery, which is readily available at electronics stores.
  • Preventative Measures: To avoid being caught off guard by a dead key fob battery, consider replacing the battery periodically, especially if you notice any signs of the key fob battery weakening.

Few Final Words

Changing the battery in your Hyundai key fob is an easy maintenance task that ensures you can continue to enjoy the convenience and security features of your vehicle without interruption.

By recognizing the signs of a weak battery, understanding the replacement process, and knowing which battery your key fob requires, you can ensure a quick and hassle-free battery change. Always refer to your Hyundai's owner manual for the most accurate and specific instructions regarding your model.