Nothing lasts forever, including your Dodge Ram 1500 key fob battery. If you own this beauty and one day the key fob seems to act against you, it’s probably time for a replacement.

Luckily, it’s a simple process, and this article will guide you through every step. All you need is a flat screwdriver, a new battery, and some motivation!

Why and When Do You Need a Replacement Key Fob For The Dodge Ram 1500?

Your Dodge Ram key can perform some special tricks, including locking and unlocking the doors, tailgate, swing, and even the truck of the car.

The first sign that a dodge key fob battery replacement is required is usually when this first function stops working.

It will start with a weaker signal and multiple failed attempts to lock the car, which will result in a nonfunctional key.

Other signs are that you can no longer access the accessory features, like the remote start, radio, or Windows control.

An efficient Dodge key can start or shut down the engine, adjust the climate system, and automatically close the car windows with one button!

If any of these actions seem to lag or stop working, consider a key fob replacement.

The Steps To Dodge Key Fob Replacement

So, you’re now sure that the Dodge RAM 1500 key is not working properly and that a battery replacement is the solution.

The next thing to do is find a new battery, get the necessary tools, and start working! Follow this guide for a quick replacement, and enjoy the results.

Step 1: Analyze The Situation

Chances are you’ll only need to change the battery of your Dodge Ram 1500 key fob.

If this option fails and the key fob is in good condition, with no accumulated moisture, it’s probably time to find a new one.

Step 2: Find The Tools

The good news is that you’ll only need a flat screwdriver and a new battery to replace a Dodge key fob battery.

Search for a CR-2450, 3-volt battery. It should be easy to find one online. In the second case scenario, you’ll need to order a new key fob.

Programming is usually included in the price, but there’s also a guide in this article to help you with that.

Step 3: Remove The Emergency Key

Now that you have all the necessary things let’s start the process. It’s not surprising that a hidden emergency key is found on one end of the dodge key.

To remove it, simply press the side button and hold it for a few seconds, then pull out the key.

Step 4: Use The Screwdriver To Reach The Battery

Now, this is the step where the screwdriver comes in handy. Once you’ve got the emergency key out of its place, you can continue the Dodge Ram 1500 key replacement.

Keep the car key with the buttons facing down, and observe the empty slot from which you’ve pulled the manual key.

Two gaps exist on the sides of the slot. Insert the flat blade of the screwdriver into one of these gaps and pry up a little. Repeat the action on the other side to open the cover.

Step 5: Use The Screwdriver To Replace The Old Battery

All that’s left to do is replace the battery. Use your fingers to remove the cover, then take the screwdriver, place it under the battery, and pry up. Now, simply insert the new battery.

Step 6: Reassemble The Key

No tools are requested for this part. Snap the cover back on top of the battery and insert the emergency key back in its place.

You have now performed a dodge key fob battery replacement all on your own!

Typical Problems Associated With The Key Fob of Dodge Ram 1500

If you notice that your Dodge key starts to lose its efficiency or, worse, suddenly stops working, a replacement key fob for the Dodge Ram 1500 may not always be the solution. Here are other common problems associated with it:

01. The Key Fob Needs To Be Reprogrammed

Solution: You can do this yourself or ask for professional help. Either way, it’s usually less expensive than a battery replacement, so it’s not the worst-case scenario.

Keep reading to learn the step-by-step process and the costs involved.

02. The Car’s Battery is Discharged

If the Dodge key fob does not seem to be working properly, you may need to check the car’s battery.

Using a multimeter, look for a value of 12.5 volts. This indicates that the battery is fully charged, and you can cross out this scenario.

03. There is Dirt Inside The Key

A dodge key fob replacement seems like the most likely scenario when you notice the key isn’t working properly.

However, there have been many cases in which the dodge key accumulated dirt or moisture over time, so its main functions were altered.

Find a screwdriver to remove the key cover, then get an electronic cleaning kit and wipe everything out.

Can You Program The Dodge Ram 1500 Key Fob Yourself?

Yes, and it’s not even that complicated. Even if your key fob is no longer working and you have a brand new one that needs programming, you can quickly program it using the manual emergency key.

If you end up in this situation, you are either trying to reprogram the old key fob, or you have already done a total dodge ram 1500 key replacement and need to program the new one. Either, we’ve got you covered.

Step 1

Get into the car and sit in the driver’s place.

Step 2

Find the lock button and press it quickly 5 times. You must do it fast in order for it to work.

Step 3

Now, hold the unlock button. At the same time, insert the car key and turn the ignition on. Keep holding the unlock button from the key fob this whole time.

Step 4

While you are still holding the unlock button and the ignition is turned on, also held the panic button for one second. Not more, not less than one second.

Step 5

Release both buttons at the same time.

Step 6

Press the unlock button from the key fob again, and you’re good to go. All that’s left is to check the functionality of your newly programmed key fob.

Cost of Dodge Ram 1500 Key Replacement

It all depends on the kind of replacement we’re talking about. The price range is wide, from replacing a Dodge key fob battery to buying an entirely new key fob that needs programming and complex technology.

Next, there’s the problem of whether to ask for professional help or do it yourself; that’s going to also affect the total cost.

Of course, while choosing the second option is more time- and nerve-consuming- it’s usually worth it, as anyone can complete the process in minutes.

a) Dodge Key Fob Battery Replacement

With a simple Amazon search, you’ll find plenty of brands offering affordable packs of CR2450 3V lithium batteries.

The average cost for a pack of 6 batteries is $5-$10, so if a discharged key fob battery is the problem, you’re lucky.

b) Whole Key Fob Replacement

This is the most expensive scenario. With programming costs included, a standard key fob costs about $150-$200, while a smart proximity key fob can easily reach $450.

A more wallet-friendly alternative is simply making a basic key at the locksmith for around $30.

Tips To Know Before The Replacement Process

01. A Stolen Key Fob Must Be Reported

If your key fob was stolen, informing the dealership about it is always a must.

They will be able to program the new key fob and reprogram the car so that the thief is incapable of controlling its functions.

02. Take Into Consideration The Model of Your Car

Newer cars tend to be more pretentious about OEM keys, so they might not function properly when controlled by aftermarket keys.

If that’s the case, going to a dealership is the smartest option, even if it’s pricy.

03. Check The Dodge Key Fob Battery

To this before buying a new key. You might escape the situation with less money and effort. Also, clean the interior of the fob before reaching any conclusion.

What To Do If The Key Fob is Not Working Even After The Replacement

As we’ve mentioned, a dead key fob battery is one of the best-case scenarios if the car is not responding to your key fob’s commands.

If the Dodge RAM 1500 key is still not working, even after a battery replacement, you may start to consider more serious problems, like blocked locks, electrical car problems, or simply a broken key fob.

However, before jumping to any conclusions, make sure to clean the inside of the fob thoroughly with a special cleaning kit.

It can be purchased from any store, and to open the cover, you’ll only need a flat screwdriver.

Next, try reprogramming the key fob, as sometimes a new battery can interrupt the old connection.

To do it yourself, follow the steps we’ve already presented earlier in the article.

How To Do it Yourself Dodge Key Fob Battery Replacement

Here’s a short revision to sort out the simple, easy steps of replacing your Dodge Ram 1500 key fob battery all on your own.

Step 1

You need a CR-2450, a 3-volt battery, and a flat-bolt screwdriver for this process.

Step 2

Find the metal end of the key. Press the button next to it and hold until you can easily pull out the hidden emergency key.

Step 3

After removing the key, it’s time to remove the fob’s cover. Insert the flat screwdriver into the small side holes in the empty spot where the emergency key used to be and pry out.

Step 4

After you feel the cover popping out a little, use your fingers to remove it gently. It shouldn’t feel forced, as we try to keep the integrity of the key fob. After all, you’ll need it back in a functional state.

Step 5

Use the flat screwdriver again. Insert its head under the small battery and use it to slowly remove and remove it.

Step 6

Replace the space with the new CR-2450 round battery and put the cover back on, using only your hand for this step. All done!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Types of Dodge Keys Are There?

There are at least 5 types of keys for your Dodge RAM 1500. Their features, disadvantages, and costs all differ, so in the end, it’s up to you and what best fits your needs.

The basic key is the old, manual key used to lock and unlock the car; no complications are needed. The transponder key is a basic key with some extra safety features.

It has a transponder that assures communication with the car, so it provides a better level of security.

Next comes the key fob, the switchblade key, and the proximity key, all with complex, remote, advanced features.

Do Different Key Fobs Come With Different Prices?

The short answer is yes. Even more, they are appropriate for different car models. The Basic Key is the best fit for 1990-2005 vehicles, and the price range for one of these is $30-$160.

A good locksmith will make the key in no time, and it’s surely the most wallet-friendly option.

The Transponder Key costs between $100 and $190, while the remote head key costs between $150 and $250.

Finally, the most advanced smart proximity key can cost up to $450, so make sure you’ve considered all the other possibilities before totally replacing your old key fob.

If I Change The Battery, Do I Need To Reprogram The Key Fob?

This is quite a frequent situation. Although your key fob may keep its connection to the car after a battery replacement and work just as well as a new one, this is not the only possible scenario.

If, after the battery key fob for the Dodge Ram 1500 replacement, the key fob still seems to have problems, it probably just needs a quick reprogramming so it recognizes the car once again. So, before panicking, check the programming guide!

How Long is The Battery Life of a Key Fob?

Batteries can last different amounts of time, depending on the brand and type. The most common battery for a Dodge Ram 1500 key fob is a CR-2450, 3-volt.

Its everyday life is about 3-4 years, then it needs to be replaced or charged. Luckily for you, this type of battery is both lasting and affordable, so a 6-pack should be enough for the next decade.

Last Thoughts

Now, let’s revise all the important aspects of a Dodge Ram 1500 key replacement.

You’ve learned that a nonfunctional key fob can be the result of many issues, with the need for a Dodge key fob battery replacement occupying the top place.

Also, while a key fob replacement is not exactly the most favorable situation, you can minimize the costs by programming the part yourself in just six simple steps.

With this knowledge, it’s time to check your Dodge key fob and find the best solution!