How to Change the Battery in a Hyundai Key Fob

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as having your Hyundai key fob die on you. Most motorists automatically assume the key fob is faulty and needs an expensive replacement. Fortunately, that’s not always the case, as you could be dealing with a dead battery.

Replacing the battery can have the Hyundai key fob functioning seamlessly as before. While replacing and reprograming a Hyundai key fob may sound daunting, it really isn’t. Dig in as we explain how you can replace the battery and reprogram your Hyundai key fob in minutes.

Changing a Hyundai Key Fob Battery

Since Hyundai’s key fobs differ among the car models, the initial process will depend on whether you drive a newer or older Hyundai model.

• For new Hyundai models, press and hold the metal tab or button to detach the metal key. Next, remove the back cover using the metal key. Insert the key into the small opening and turn it as you would when igniting your car. The twisting motion pop the key fob’s case right open.
• Key fobs for older Hyundai models have a notch or slight indentation along the side. Locate the indent and use a flat blade screwdriver or a coin to open the key fob. Gently insert the coin or screwdriver into the notch and twist it in either direction to pop the cover.
• Place the case with the buttons facing downwards to keep them from spilling out. Pop the key fob open.
• Set the fob with the buttons aside and remove the motherboard and the barrier to expose the battery.
• Take a picture or note the battery placement before removing it from the key fob. Battery orientation is crucial, so you must place the replacement battery correctly for the key fob to function.
• Use the key to pop the dead key fob battery from its bracket.
• Pop the new battery into the bracket with the + side facing downwards. You can use your photo as a reference. Most Hyundai key fobs use a CR2032 battery. If you don’t have one handy, note the battery make and model and buy a replacement. CR2032 replacement batteries are readily available online.
• Double-check to ensure the battery has a snug fit in the brackets and is in contact with all the connections.
• Replace the circuit board, barriers, and the button-half of the key fob.
• Align the release button peg with the corresponding hole and snap the fob back together.
• Remember to replace the metal key if you’ve removed it earlier after reassembling the key fob.

After each Hyundai key fob battery replacement, you should test the smart key to ensure it’s 100% functional. Press any of the buttons on the key fob. If the small red light above the unlock button flashes, your Hyundai Smart key is perfectly functional. If the red light doesn’t flash, you may need to reprogram the key fob.

How to Program a Hyundai Key Fob

Some models require you to reprogram the key fob to your vehicle following a key fob battery replacement. Luckily, you don’t need special skills to achieve this simple feat. Here’s what you need to do:

• Enter your Hyundai and close all the doors.
• Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the ACC (accessory) position.
• Press and hold the open or unlock button on your Hyundai key fob until the car lights flash.
• Once the lights flash, you’ve successfully programmed the key fob to your vehicle.
• Test the key fob by locking the door to see if it's functioning correctly. If it doesn’t, re-open the case and check on the battery placement. Ensure it's lying snugly in the bracket and all the connections are touching and in good form, then reprogram it to your car again.

If the key fob doesn’t work after repeating the process, you may need a Hyundai key fob replacement.

P.S. As a safety measure, this programming method only works if you have previously programmed the key fob to your Hyundai. If you have a brand-new key fob, you must have it programmed to your vehicle at a Hyundai service center.

Hyundai Digital Key to the Rescue

If your key fob battery suddenly dies, you can use the Hyundai Digital key to lock and unlock your car in the meantime. The Hyundai Digital Key lets you unlock your car with your smartphone. Hold the smartphone against the driver’s or passenger’s door handle to unlock the car.

Dock the phone on the wireless charger and push the ignition button to start the car. The Hyundai Digital Key app is available from the Google Play Store and only works with Android phones. It’s currently not available for iPhones.

Reliable Hyundai Service Center in Kansas City

If you have trouble programming a key fob to your Hyundai, wish to replace your key fob, or have any other trouble, we can help. The skilled technicians at Reed Hyundai, Kansas City, can help diagnose the problem and improve your motoring experience. Pop in for Hyundai maintenance services, repairs, and more.