Nothing lasts forever, including your dodge ram 1500 hey fob battery. If you happen to own this beauty, and one day the key fob seems to act against you, it’s probably time for a replacement.
Luckily for you, it’s a simple process, and this article will guide you through every step of it. 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 do some special tricks, including locking and unlocking the doors, tailgate, swing, and even 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 of locking the car and end up with a nonfunctional key.
Other signs are that you no longer can 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 for you, all in one button!
If any of these actions seem to have a lag or stop working at all, consider a key fob replacement.
The Steps To Dodge Key Fob Replacement
So, you’re now sure that the key for the dodge RAM 1500 is not working properly, and a battery replacement is a solution.
The next thing to do is find a new battery, get the necessary tools and start working! Follow this guide for a simple, 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 there’s nothing wrong with the key fob, like accumulated moisture inside it, 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 for a dodge key fob battery replacement.
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 a surprise that on one end of the dodge key you’ll find a hidden, emergency 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 which you’ve pulled the manual key from.
There are two gaps on the sides of the slot. Insert the flat blade of the screwdriver in any of these gaps and pry up a little. Repeat the action for the other side to open the cover.
Step 5: Use The Screwdriver To Replace The Old Battery
All that’s left to do is to replace the battery. Remove the cover using your fingers, 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. Simply 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 you can 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 everything seems to be just fine with the dodge key fob, you may need to check the car’s battery.
Look for a value of 12.5 volts using a multimeter. This indicated 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 simply 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 you’re key fob is not working anymore, and you got a brand new one that needs programming, you can quickly get the job done 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 take 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 here. From a dodge key fob battery replacement to buying an entirely new key fob that needs programming and complex technology, the price range is large.
Next, there’s the problem of asking for professional help or doing 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 the process can be done by anyone in minutes.
a) Dodge Key Fob Battery Replacement
With a simple Amazon search, you’ll find plenty of brands that offer packs of CR2450 3V lithium batteries for affordable prices.
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 one is the most expensive case scenario. With costs that include programming, a standard key fob costs about $150-$200, while a smart proximity key fob can reach $450 easily.
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, it’s always a must to inform the dealership about it.
Not only they will be able to program the new key fob, but they will also reprogram the car, so the thief is incapable of controlling its functions.
02. Take Into Consideration The Model of Your Car
Newer cars tend to be more pretentious when it comes to OEM keys, so they might not function under the control of 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 take into consideration 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 you’ll only need a flat screwdriver to open the cover.
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
Find a CR-2450, 3-volt battery, and a flat-bolt screwdriver. These are all the items you need in 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 emergency key hidden there.
Step 3
After removing the key, it’s time to remove the cover of the fob. Insert the flat screwdriver into the small side holes you’ll find 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 gently remove it. 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 take it out.
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 cost all differ, so in the end, it’s up to you and what fits your needs best.
The basic is the old, manual key used to simply lock and unlock the car, no complications 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-$190, while the remote head key reaches $150-$250.
Finally, the most advanced, smart proximity key can reach even $450, so make sure you’ve checked 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 doing the programming part yourself in just 6 simple steps.
With this knowledge, it’s time to check your dodge key fob and come up with the best solution!
Richmond is a dedicated automotive enthusiast, offering expertise in all things cars. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, he’s your go-to expert for all your automotive inquiries.