For your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob battery, the most common and recommended size is the CR2032. Replacing this essential power source is a straightforward DIY task that keeps your remote start, unlock, and lock functions working smoothly.
Are you finding that your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob is acting up? Maybe it’s not unlocking the doors reliably, or the remote start isn’t responding. It can be really frustrating when this handy little gadget starts giving you trouble. The most common culprit is a simple, drained battery inside the key fob itself. Don’t worry, most drivers can tackle this fix themselves without needing a mechanic or spending a lot of money. This guide will walk you through exactly what you need and how to get your key fob working like new again, step by step. We’ll make sure you have all the information for a quick and successful replacement.
Why Your 2013 Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery Matters
Your key fob is more than just a way to lock and unlock your car; it’s a gateway to convenience. For your 2013 Nissan Altima, it controls essential features like:
Remote Locking/Unlocking: The most basic function, allowing you to secure your vehicle from a distance.
Remote Start: A fantastic feature for those chilly mornings or hot afternoons, letting you get your car to a comfortable temperature before you even step inside.
Trunk Release: Many models offer a way to pop the trunk open remotely, which is super helpful when your hands are full.
Panic Alarm: A safety feature that can help deter unwanted attention or locate your vehicle in a crowded parking lot.
When the battery in your key fob weakens, these conveniences start to falter. You might notice a shorter range for the remote signals, or it might stop working altogether. This is your car’s way of telling you it’s time for a new power source for the fob.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your 2013 Nissan Altima Key Fob
The first and most crucial step is knowing which battery your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob uses. Fortunately, Nissan has been consistent with the key fob battery size for many of its models, including the 2013 Altima.
The overwhelming majority of 2013 Nissan Altima key fobs require a CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery.
You’ll often see this stamped right on the old battery if you open up the fob. If not, it’s the standard replacement you’ll find at almost any store that sells batteries.
What is a CR2032 Battery?
Let’s quickly break down what “CR2032” means, so you understand what you’re looking for:
CR: This designates it as a lithium primary battery.
20: Refers to the diameter of the battery in millimeters (approximately 20mm).
32: Refers to the thickness of the battery in tenths of a millimeter (about 3.2mm).
3-volt: This is the standard voltage output for these coin cell batteries, which is perfect for the low-power electronics in key fobs.
Where Can You Buy a CR2032 Battery?
You can find CR2032 batteries in a wide variety of places, making them easy to get when you need them:
Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often found in the checkout lanes or the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) aisles.
Drug Stores and Pharmacies: Usually in the health and beauty or electronics accessory sections.
Electronics Stores: Like Best Buy, or smaller local electronics shops.
Big Box Retailers: Walmart, Target, etc., will have them in their electronics or battery sections.
Hardware Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, or local hardware shops might carry them.
Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and other online shopping platforms offer them, often in multi-packs which can be cost-effective.
Pro Tip: Buying a multi-pack is usually more economical if you have multiple key fobs or other devices that use CR2032 batteries.
Tools You’ll Need for the Replacement
Changing the battery in your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob is a simple process that requires minimal tools. You likely already have what you need around the house.
Here’s a quick checklist:
New CR2032 Battery: Make sure it’s fresh! Old stock can sometimes be low on power.
Small Flathead Screwdriver: This is the most common tool used to pry open the key fob casing. A small pry tool or even a sturdy flat fingernail can sometimes work, but a screwdriver is usually the most effective.
Plastic Pry Tool (Optional): If you’re worried about scratching the plastic on your key fob, a dedicated plastic pry tool is a gentler option. These are often found in electronics repair kits.
Soft Cloth or Paper Towel: To wipe down any grime or fingerprints from the new battery or the inside of the fob.
Your 2013 Nissan Altima Key Fob: Of course!
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your 2013 Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery
Let’s get your key fob powered up again. Follow these simple steps carefully.
Step 1: Prepare Your Key Fob
First, take a look at your key fob. Most 2013 Nissan Altima fobs have a small seam running around the middle where the two halves of the plastic casing meet. You’ll also notice a small slot or notch, usually on the side or at the bottom, which is where you’ll start prying.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
Locate the Seam and Slot: Examine your key fob closely to find where it can be opened. The easiest place to start is usually the small notch or slot designed for this purpose.
Insert the Screwdriver: Carefully insert the tip of your small flathead screwdriver (or pry tool) into the slot.
Gently Pry: Apply gentle, steady pressure to twist the screwdriver or carefully pry the two halves of the casing apart. You might hear a slight pop as the clips holding the casing together release. Work your way around the seam if necessary, but often starting at the designated slot is enough.
Avoid Forcing: Be patient and avoid using excessive force, as you don’t want to break any of the plastic clips or damage the internal components.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the small, round battery nestled inside. Batteries are usually held in place by a small metal clip or by the casing itself.
Observe the Placement: Note how the battery is oriented – usually, the positive (+) side is facing up.
Lift or Slide Out: Most CR2032 batteries can be gently pried out with your screwdriver or a fingernail. If there’s a metal clip holding it, carefully push the clip to the side to release the battery.
Step 4: Insert the New Battery
Now it’s time to put in the fresh CR2032 battery.
Orient Correctly: Take your new CR2032 battery. Look for the positive (+) side, which usually has the battery’s markings printed on it. You want this side to face upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery.
Seat the Battery: Gently place the new battery into its holder. It should sit snugly and securely. If there’s a clip, make sure it snaps back over the edge of the battery.
Cleanliness: If the inside of your fob is dusty or dirty, you can use a dry cloth to wipe it down before inserting the new battery.
Step 5: Close the Key Fob Casing
Align the Halves: Take the two halves of the key fob casing and align them correctly. Ensure any buttons or internal electronic components are properly seated.
Snap Together: Press the two halves firmly together. You should feel and hear them snap back into place. Work your way around the seam, pressing firmly until the casing is securely closed all the way around.
Check for Gaps: Make sure there are no visible gaps in the casing. If there are, you might need to press a bit harder or ensure no wires are caught between the halves.
Step 6: Test Your Key Fob
This is the moment of truth!
Test Functions: Take your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob and try all its functions.
Press the lock button.
Press the unlock button.
Try the trunk release button.
If you have a remote start button, try that too.
Check Range: You should notice a much-improved range compared to when the battery was weak.
Troubleshooting: If it’s still not working, double-check that the battery is inserted correctly (positive side up), that it’s the right battery type, and that the casing is fully closed. Sometimes, the metal contacts inside the fob just need a little adjustment – ensure they are making good contact with the battery.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob battery.
Understanding Battery Lifespan and Maintenance
Like any battery, the one in your 2013 Nissan Altima key fob won’t last forever. Several factors influence its lifespan.
Factors Affecting Battery Life
Usage Frequency: The more you use your key fob, the faster the battery will drain. Frequent door locking/unlocking, remote starting, and accidental button presses (like when it’s in a pocket or bag) all contribute.
Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance and longevity. Very cold or very hot conditions aren’t ideal.
Battery Quality: Not all CR2032 batteries are created equal. Higher-quality batteries from reputable brands tend to last longer than cheaper, unbranded ones.
Key Fob Design: While your 2013 Altima uses a standard design, minor variations in power consumption can occur between different fob versions or even manufacturing batches.
Typical Lifespan for a 2013 Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery
A CR2032 battery in a key fob typically lasts anywhere from 1 to 3 years. Some might last a bit longer, while others might need replacing sooner, usually between 18 and 24 months is a common range.
If you find yourself needing to replace the battery more frequently than that (e.g., every few months), it might indicate a problem with the key fob itself or a sign that the battery you’re using isn’t holding a charge well.
When to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Reduced Range: The most common sign is when you have to be much closer to your car for the fob to work.
Unreliable Operation: The buttons might work sometimes and not others.
No Response: The key fob simply stops working altogether.
Car Notification: Some modern cars might even show a warning light on the dashboard if they detect a low key fob battery, though this is less common for a 2013 model.
Key Fob Battery Types: CR2032 vs. CR2025 & CR2016
While the CR2032 is the standard for your 2013 Nissan Altima, it’s helpful to know about other common coin cell batteries, as they look similar but have crucial differences.
| Battery Type | Diameter (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Voltage (V) | Common Uses |
| :———– | :———— | :————- | :———- | :————————————————- |
| CR2032 | ~20 | ~3.2 | 3V | Car key fobs (including 2013 Altima), calculators, watches, small electronics |
| CR2025 | ~20 | ~2.5 | 3V | Calculators, key fobs (some other vehicles), small remotes |
| CR2016 | ~20 | ~1.6 | 3V | Small digital watches, key fobs (even fewer), computer motherboards |
It’s critical to use the correct battery size. A CR2025 or CR2016 is thinner than a CR2032. While they have the same voltage (3V), their physical dimensions mean they won’t fit properly in the battery compartment and may not make consistent contact with the terminals, rendering your key fob useless.
Important Safety Precautions
Working with small electronics and batteries is generally safe, but it’s always good to keep a few safety tips in mind to avoid any issues.
Handle Batteries with Care: While CR2032 batteries are common, avoid storing them loose with other metal objects like coins or keys, as this can cause them to short-circuit.
Proper Disposal: Don’t just throw old batteries in the regular trash. Many places have battery recycling programs. Check with your local municipality or electronics stores for disposal options. For example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidance on responsible electronics recycling.
Don’t Ingest: Keep batteries away from small children and pets. If a coin battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal injuries. If this happens, seek immediate medical attention.
Cleanliness: While not a safety hazard, keeping the inside of your key fob and the new battery clean can ensure a better connection and longer life for the battery.
Gentle Force: As mentioned earlier, don’t force anything when prying open the fob or removing the battery. Broken plastic can make the fob difficult to reassemble and may leave sharp edges.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
What if your key fob still isn’t working after replacing the battery? Don’t panic! Here are a few common issues and how to fix them.
Battery Installed Backward: This is one of the most common mistakes. Double-check that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards (or towards the contacts, depending on the fob design).
Poor Connection: The metal contacts inside the fob might be dirty, bent, or not making proper contact with the battery. Gently clean the contacts with a pencil eraser or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol (let it dry completely). If a contact looks bent, you can try to very carefully adjust it slightly with a small, non-conductive tool.
Wrong Battery Type: You might have accidentally bought a CR2025 or CR2016 instead of a CR2032. As discussed, these are physically different and won’t work.
Damaged Key Fob: The internal circuitry of the key fob could be damaged, especially if it’s been dropped, exposed to moisture, or is very old. This is less common but possible.
Car’s Receiver Issues: In rare cases, the problem might not be the key fob itself, but the receiver in your 2013 Nissan Altima. This is a much less likely scenario if the only symptom is a non-working key fob.
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your key fob still doesn’t work, you may need to:
Purchase a new key fob: These can be bought online or from a dealership.
Have the key fob reprogrammed: Once you have a new fob, it will need to be paired with your car. Many dealerships offer this service, and sometimes independent automotive shops can do it too. For information on key fob programming, you can often find helpful resources on automotive repair forums or from manufacturers like Nissan USA’s customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the battery size for a 2013 Nissan Altima key fob?
A1: The standard battery size for a 2013 Nissan Altima key fob is the CR2032, a 3-volt lithium coin cell battery.
Q2: How often should I replace my key fob battery?
A2: Typically, a key fob battery lasts between 1 to 3 years, depending on usage and battery quality. You’ll know it’s time when the range decreases or it stops working reliably.
Q3: Can I use a CR2025 battery instead of a CR2032?
A3: No, you should not substitute a CR2025 (or CR2016) for a CR2032. While they have the same voltage, they differ in thickness. A CR2032 is thicker and won’t fit properly in a slot designed for a thinner battery, leading to poor contact or an inability to close the fob.
Q4: My key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery. What should I do?
A4: First, ensure the battery is installed correctly with the positive (+) side up. Check for bent or dirty contacts inside the fob. If those are fine, the battery might be faulty, or the key fob itself may need replacement or reprogramming.
Q5: Where can I buy a CR2032 battery?
A5: CR2032 batteries are widely available at supermarkets, drug stores, electronics stores, big-box retailers, hardware stores, and online retailers like Amazon.
Q6: Is it safe to replace the battery myself?
A6: Yes, replacing the key fob battery is a simple and safe DIY task. Just be careful not to force any parts when opening the fob and ensure you handle batteries responsibly.