Quick Summary:
The battery for your 2019 Buick Encore key fob is a CR2032 lithium coin battery. Replacing it is a simple DIY task that takes just a few minutes and ensures your key fob works reliably to unlock your car.
The little light on your key fob might be dim, or the buttons might feel sluggish. This usually means it’s time for a new battery in your 2019 Buick Encore key fob. It’s a common issue that can be easily fixed, saving you a trip to the dealer. Don’t let a dead battery leave you stranded outside your car!
We’ll walk you through exactly what you need and how to swap out that old battery for a fresh one, step-by-step. You’ll have your key fob working like new again in no time. Let’s get your Encore unlocked and ready to go!
Your 2019 Buick Encore Key Fob Battery: The Essential Guide
Having your key fob stop working can be a real nuisance. That moment when you press the unlock button and nothing happens is frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry or dealing with bad weather. Fortunately, the battery for your 2019 Buick Encore key fob is one of the easiest parts to replace yourself. You don’t need to be a mechanic or a tech whiz to get the job done.
This guide is designed to be super clear and easy to follow. We’ll show you exactly which battery you need, what tools to gather, and precisely how to swap it out. We’ll keep things simple, straightforward, and most importantly, safe. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to handle this common car maintenance task.
Why Your Key Fob Needs a Fresh Battery
Your key fob is powered by a small, coin-shaped battery. Over time, like any battery, it loses its charge. This is perfectly normal! Several signs will tell you it’s time for a replacement:
Weak signals: You have to be closer to your car for the fob to work.
Slow response: Buttons might take a second or two to register.
No response: The fob simply stops working altogether.
Indicator light issues: If your fob has an indicator light, it might be dim or not light up at all.
The good news is that replacing the battery is usually a quick and inexpensive fix that can prevent a lot of hassle.
What Battery Do You Need for Your 2019 Buick Encore Key Fob?
The most common and correct battery for a 2019 Buick Encore key fob is a CR2032 lithium coin battery.
These batteries are readily available at most convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, and electronics retailers. They are also very affordable.
Here’s a little more about the CR2032:
Type: Lithium Coin Cell
Voltage: 3 Volts
Size: 20mm diameter, 3.2mm thickness
Commonly found in: Key fobs, small electronics, calculators, watches, medical devices.
Always double-check your owner’s manual if you are unsure, but the CR2032 is a very safe bet for your 2019 Encore.
Choosing the Right Battery Brand
While almost any brand of CR2032 will work, some brands are known for their reliability and longevity. Good quality brands often use better materials and have more consistent performance. When you’re at the store, you might see options from Duracell, Energizer, Panasonic, or Sony. For a key fob battery that you don’t want failing at an inconvenient time, opting for a reputable brand is a good idea.
Tools You’ll Need to Replace the Battery
You really only need one or two simple tools to get the job done. The key is to be gentle to avoid damaging the key fob case.
Here’s what we recommend:
A small, flat-head screwdriver: This is your primary tool for gently prying open the key fob. A small jeweler’s screwdriver or a flathead screwdriver with a thin blade works best.
A plastic pry tool (optional): If you have one, a plastic trim tool or a guitar pick can be even safer as it’s less likely to scratch the plastic of your key fob.
A soft cloth or paper towel: To rest the key fob on and keep the new battery clean.
That’s it! No fancy gadgets or expensive tools are required.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your 2019 Buick Encore Key Fob Battery
Let’s get to it! This process is straightforward and should only take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 1: Locate the Seam on Your Key Fob
Take a look at your key fob. You’ll see a thin line running around the edge where the two halves of the fob meet. This is the seam we need to work with.
Step 2: Separate the Two Halves of the Key Fob
Hold the key fob securely in one hand.
Take your small flat-head screwdriver (or plastic pry tool) and carefully insert the tip into the seam.
Gently twist the screwdriver to create a small gap. Don’t force it! You should hear a slight click as the plastic clips release.
Slowly work your way around the seam with the screwdriver, gently prying as you go. The two halves should start to separate.
Once one side is separated, you can usually just pull the two halves apart.
Important Safety Tip: Be gentle when prying. The plastic clips are small and can break if you use too much force. If you’re having trouble, try inserting the tool into a different part of the seam or wiggling it gently.
Step 3: Identify and Remove the Old Battery
Inside, you’ll see the circular coin battery. It’s usually held in place by a small metal clip or simply sits in a designated spot.
Observe how the battery is positioned. Note which side is facing up.
You might be able to gently push the battery out from the side with your fingernail or a small plastic tool.
If there’s a small metal clip holding it, you might need to carefully slide the screwdriver or pry tool underneath the edge of the battery to lift it out.
Step 4: Insert the New CR2032 Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery.
Pay attention to the symbols on the battery – it will show a plus (+) and a minus (-).
Gently place the new battery into the compartment, making sure the positive (+) side is facing UP. This orientation is crucial for the key fob to work.
The battery should fit snugly. If it feels loose, ensure it’s seated correctly.
Tip: Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the new battery with your bare fingers. Fingerprints and oils can leave residue that might affect battery life or contact. It’s best to handle it by the edges.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Align the two halves of the key fob case.
Gently press them together. You should hear small clicks as the plastic clips snap back into place.
Continue pressing around the edges until the case is sealed tightly.
Give it a quick check to make sure there are no gaps.
Step 6: Test Your Key Fob
The moment of truth!
Walk up to your 2019 Buick Encore and try unlocking it with the key fob.
Press the lock and unlock buttons to ensure they are working correctly.
If you have a panic button, you can test that too (just be prepared for your car alarm to sound!).
If your key fob now works perfectly, congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the battery.
Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Battery Issues
Sometimes, even after replacing the battery, your key fob might not work as expected. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:
Key fob still not working:
Check Battery Orientation: The most common mistake is inserting the battery upside down. Double-check that the ‘+’ side is facing up.
Faulty New Battery: While rare, sometimes new batteries can be dead or defective. Try a different CR2032 battery from a different pack or brand.
Corrosion or Damage: Inspect the battery contacts inside the fob and the battery itself for any signs of corrosion or damage. Clean gently with a pencil eraser if needed.
Key Fob Damage: If none of the above work, the key fob itself might have internal damage, or the battery compartment contacts may be bent or broken.
Buttons are sticky after replacement:
This could be due to dirt or debris that got into the fob during disassembly. Try gently wiping down the inside of the fob and the rubber button contacts with a dry cotton swab.
Key fob works, but intermittently:
This could still point to a slightly weak new battery or poor contact. Ensure the battery is seated firmly and try a higher-quality brand.
If you continue to have problems, it might be time to consult your Buick dealer or a qualified automotive locksmith.
How Often Should You Replace Your Key Fob Battery?
The lifespan of a key fob battery can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:
Usage: How often you use the buttons. Constantly pressing buttons will drain the battery faster.
Battery quality: Higher-quality batteries tend to last longer.
Environmental factors: Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance.
Fob design: Some fob designs might be more power-efficient than others.
As a general rule, you can expect a key fob battery to last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. It’s a good idea to replace it proactively if you notice any of the signs mentioned earlier, rather than waiting for it to die completely. Some drivers like to replace it every two years as routine maintenance.
Comparing Key Fob Batteries to Car Batteries
It’s important to note that the battery in your key fob is very different from the main car battery in your 2019 Buick Encore.
| Feature | Key Fob Battery (CR2032) | Buick Encore Car Battery |
| :—————- | :——————————————- | :——————————————— |
| Type | Lithium Coin Cell | Lead-Acid (usually) |
| Voltage | 3 Volts | 12 Volts |
| Size | Small, coin-shaped (approx. 20mm diameter) | Large, rectangular (heavy) |
| Purpose | Powers the remote functions of the key fob | Starts the engine, powers vehicle electronics |
| Lifespan | 1-3 years | 3-5 years (can vary significantly) |
| Replacement | DIY, simple, inexpensive | Can be DIY, but often requires more tools and knowledge; professional service recommended for some |
| Availability | Widely available at retail stores | Auto parts stores, dealerships |
| Cost | A few dollars | $100 – $300+ |
While both are batteries, their roles and specifications are entirely different. The car battery is a much larger, more powerful component essential for the vehicle’s operation, whereas the key fob battery is a low-power source for remote functions. For more information on your car’s main battery, resources like fueleconomy.gov offer insights into vehicle battery technologies.
When Should You Consider a Professional Replacement?
For a 2019 Buick Encore key fob battery, the vast majority of owners can and should handle the replacement themselves. It’s a straightforward and inexpensive task.
However, you might consider professional help if:
You’re uncomfortable with DIY: If you lack the confidence or dexterity to open the fob without risking damage, it’s okay to seek help.
The key fob is damaged: If your key fob has been dropped, submerged in water, or shows signs of physical damage, it may need professional repair or replacement, not just a battery change.
You’ve lost your spare key fob: If you only have one key fob and it’s malfunctioning, a dealership might be able to reprogram a new one if you can’t get the old one working after a battery change.
* The key fob is extremely old or a specialized model: While unlikely for a 2019 model, some older or unique key fobs might have special disassembly procedures.
Always remember that the dealership is an option, but it will likely be the most expensive. An automotive locksmith or a specialized car electronics repair shop might be more cost-effective if you decide professional help is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions people have about their 2019 Buick Encore key fob batteries.
Q1: What is the most common battery type for a 2019 Buick Encore key fob?
The most common battery is a CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery. These are easily found at most stores that sell batteries.
Q2: How do I know when my key fob battery needs replacing?
Signs include your key fob not unlocking or locking your car from a normal distance, the buttons feeling slow to respond, or the indicator light on the fob being dim or not lighting up at all.
Q3: Can I replace the key fob battery myself?
Yes, absolutely! Replacing the key fob battery is a simple DIY task that usually just requires a small flat-head screwdriver and a few minutes of your time.
Q4: Where can I buy a CR2032 battery?
You can buy CR2032 batteries at most supermarkets, drug stores, convenience stores, electronics stores (like Best Buy), and online retailers (like Amazon).
Q5: Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?
No, typically you do not need to reprogram your key fob after simply replacing the battery. The fob’s internal programming is retained even without power.
Q6: How long does a key fob battery typically last?
A CR2032 key fob battery usually lasts between 1 to 3 years, depending on usage, battery quality, and environmental conditions.
Q7: What should I do if my key fob still doesn’t work after changing the battery?
First, double-check that the new battery is inserted correctly with the positive (+) side facing up. If it still doesn’t work, try another new battery, inspect the battery contacts for damage, or consider that the key fob itself might be damaged and require professional attention.
Keeping Your Key Fob in Top Shape
Beyond just the battery, taking simple care of your key fob can extend its life and prevent issues. Avoid dropping it unnecessarily, keep it away from excessive moisture, and if it gets dirty, clean it gently with a dry microfiber cloth. A well-maintained key fob means a more reliable connection to your 2019 Buick Encore.
Conclusion
You’ve now got all the essential information on how to replace the battery for your 2019 Buick Encore key fob. It’s a simple, affordable task that empowers you to keep your vehicle easily accessible. By following these steps, you can confidently tackle this common maintenance item yourself, saving time and money.
Remember, a dead key fob battery is rarely a sign of a bigger problem with your car; it’s usually just a sign that the small battery inside needs a refresh. Armed with the right battery (a CR2032) and a few minutes, you can ensure your key fob is always ready when you are. Keep your Encore ready to roll with a perfectly functioning key fob!
