How to Change the Battery in a Volkswagen Key
Your Volkswagen key is an extremely convenient piece of equipment. It gives you access to keyless entry, remote start, and many other helpful features. However, the battery needs replacing from time to time so you don’t end up with a dead key. Our team of Volkswagen experts here at Volkswagen of Marion has put together a simple guide to show you how to perform this task.
Replacing Your Volkswagen Key’s Battery

Image via Media.VW.com
You’ll need a CR2032 battery, a screwdriver, and some tape to replace your key fob battery. Start by putting tape over the end of the screwdriver to prevent any damage to your key fob. Next, release the emergency key by pushing the button on your Volkswagen key fob. You’ll then need to locate the seam between the base and the lid, pull it slightly apart with your fingers, and pry it open using the screwdriver.
Once the key fob is open, you can remove the old battery. When you replace it with a new one, check that the positive terminal points downwards. Finish the process by putting the key fob back together and checking to ensure it fits as neatly as before. Your key fob should now be ready to use again.
Signs Your Volkswagen Key Battery Needs Replacing
You don’t have to wait until your key fob battery dies to know it needs replacing. There are some common warning signs you can look out for so that you can take action before your key fob stops working. The first sign is if your fob’s signal range drops. The typical signal range is anywhere from 30 to 60 feet. If your key fob only works when it’s much closer to your car, it’s time for a new battery.
Another typical problem is needing to click the button on your fob several times before your car accepts the signal. A probable reason for this issue is that your key fob battery is struggling to produce enough power to transmit the signal. A similar warning sign may be that the signal takes a few seconds to reach your car. For example, when you try to unlock your doors, you may find yourself waiting several seconds for it to happen.
Even if you’re unfortunate enough to miss these warning signs and your key fob dies, you can use the Volkswagen emergency key to access your vehicle and get the engine running so you can drive to a nearby service center.
Troubleshooting Key Fob Problems
But what should you do if you’ve tried replacing your battery, but your key fob still isn’t working correctly? In that case, you could be dealing with another problem. If you have a backup key, try using it to see if it experiences the same problems as your primary key fob. If it does, you may be experiencing a technical issue that requires a professional service technician to take a look. However, this may not automatically be the case.
Another explanation for your backup key having the same issue as your main one is that both batteries are worn out. This is possible since both keys are likely to be the same age.
A short visit to your local Volkswagen service center should be enough to solve the problem with your key fob. Our Volkswagen-certified technicians have extensive experience handling all sorts of tech problems, from software malfunctions in your infotainment system to issues with your key fob. So, why not schedule your appointment today or swing by our Marion service center to learn more?
What Can Your Volkswagen Key Fob Do for You?
If you’re unfamiliar with all the tasks your Volkswagen key fob can perform, installing your new battery provides you with the perfect opportunity to learn about them. Of course, most people know how to lock and unlock car doors using their key fob. Many Volkswagen owners also enjoy the benefits of remote start, which allows you to start your vehicle’s engine using your key fob from a distance. This feature is especially useful if you want to cool your car down on hot afternoons or warm it up on cold winter mornings before you get in.
Your Volkswagen key fob can also lower and roll up your windows. This trick is another excellent way to ensure your Golf or Tiguan remains well-ventilated. Another benefit is the ability to open your trunk or liftgate depending on your particular Volkswagen model. Finally, perhaps one of your key fob’s most significant advantages is its added security. Each key fob is programmed to your specific vehicle and can be erased if lost to prevent someone else from accessing your car.
Order a New Battery for Your Volkswagen Key Online
If you need to order a new CR2032 or CR2025 battery for your Volkswagen key fob, we can help you with that. Our Volkswagen parts center stocks a wide range of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts to meet your vehicle maintenance needs, including key fob batteries. Relying on an OEM parts department is the best way to ensure that the components you buy are high quality and will last longer. What’s more, you can place your order online for added convenience.
When your key fob battery arrives, we can help you with a professional battery replacement. One of our technicians can perform the replacement in a matter of minutes so you can get back on the road. After your key fob battery is installed, your fob may require reprogramming. This is likely to be the case if your old battery died before you replaced it. Reprogramming is a relatively straightforward process that one of our service technicians can complete.
If your Volkswagen vehicle was built before the 2016 model year, you might even be able to complete this process yourself by following the instructions in the owner’s manual. Newer Volkswagen models have more complex computer systems and can only have their keys reprogrammed at a Volkswagen service center.
If you have questions about key fob batteries or want to arrange a service appointment, feel free to contact our Marion service center. Our dedicated team of Volkswagen service technicians is always on hand to help you with your car maintenance needs.
1 comment(s) so far on How to Change the Battery in a Volkswagen Key
Many thanks for your response to my issue