Nobody likes a dead remote. Whether it’s for a television set or a stereo, it can really put a damper on your day. But there’s one remote in particular where knowing how to change a battery is of vital importance: your keyless vehicle entry remote. If your car remote battery dies, you could be left without a way to get into your vehicle or start the engine. Even though many keyless entry remotes will have keys inside to enable you access to your car, it’s still important to know how to replace a car remote battery. Here’s a step-by-step guide from Car and Truck Remotes.

Step 1: Remove the Metal Key

Many keyless entry remotes will have car keys placed inside in case the battery dies and you can’t get into your vehicle. Before you can begin opening your car remote, you’ll need to remove this key. Some keyless entry remotes come with separate keys, but if your key is built inside the remote, you’ll have to flip the switch on the back of the remote to remove the key.

Step 2: Pry the Car Remote Open

Then insert a thin, flat object into the slot on your keyless entry remote. You can use a butter knife, a coin or something similar. Insert the object into the slot and slowly twist from side to side until the remote separates into two pieces. Do this carefully so you don’t damage your keyless entry remote or the circuit board inside.

Step 3: Remove the Dead Battery

Once you’ve opened the keyless entry remote, you’ll be able to see the battery inside. You can remove the battery with the object you used to pry open the remote. Take care to note which way the battery was inserted so you don’t insert the replacement battery incorrectly. Take the battery out and set it aside.

Step 4: Insert Your Replacement Battery

Place the new battery into the remote the same way the old battery was positioned. Key fobs and other car remotes use button cell batteries, usually the CR2032, but you should verify this by checking your instruction manual before ordering a replacement.

Step 5: Reassemble the Remote

Finally, put the two pieces of the remote back together in the same way that you took them apart. Following this, be sure to test your remote’s new battery to verify that it works before taking it with you.

For Remote Head Keys

If your car remote features a remote built into the head of the key, you will see a small screw on the back of the key. Instead of prying the key apart, just unscrew this screw to access the battery for replacement.

For car remote battery replacements, keyless entry remotes, key fobs and more, be sure to visit Car and Truck Remotes, where you can find everything you need for your vehicle at up to 70% off dealership prices. Being prepared is important — don’t let a dead battery stop you from driving your car.