How to Change Your Mercedes-Benz Key Battery

Slower starts, a shorter range, and lit-up dashboard warning lights may all be symptoms of a dying Mercedes-Benz key fob battery. There’s no reason to get frustrated. Learning how to change your Mercedes-Benz key battery only takes a moment, and we can even take care of the problem for you, at our service center in Warwick. Find out how to take the next steps below.

Which Type of Mercedes-Benz Car Key Do I Have?

How many batteries do you need? This depends on your type of car key. A few keys you may have include:

Chrome Key: the Chrome Key is designated for select Mercedes-Benz models and feature a metal case. Newer Chrome Key models require one battery and the older Chrome Key needs two batteries. Wondering which Chrome Key you have? The newer Chrome Key has a triangular panic button and the older Chrome Key has a circular panic button.

SmartKey®: The SmartKey® is constructed out of plastic, requires two batteries, and is designed for older Mercedes-Benz models.

How Long Do Key Fob Batteries Last?

How long do key fob batteries last? Key fobs are powered by tiny batteries that, like other batteries, will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Why? Each time you use key fobs, batteries use electricity and wear down. These key fob batteries generally last three to four years before needing to be replaced. Wondering when to replace your key fob? Read on to identify some key signals that you want to replace your key fob battery.

When to Replace Your Mercedes-Benz Key Battery

Your Mercedes-Benz features and technologies are designed to provide a seamless and satisfying experience. If you’re experiencing one of the following issues, a dying Mercedes-Benz key battery is almost certainly to blame:

• Push-Button Start Issues – If it takes more than one try to ignite your engine using the push-button feature on your dashboard, it’s likely that your key fob isn’t being recognized.
• Loss of Key Fob Range – If you find that you have to get closer and closer to your vehicle to use the fob buttons, you probably need to replace the battery. The same is true if your fob buttons aren’t working at all.
• Charging System Dashboard Light – One of your Mercedes-Benz dashboard lights indicates an issue with your charging system. Although it may point to another issue, it could be a signal that you need to check your fob

How to Replace Your Mercedes-Benz Key Battery

Although it’s quick and easy to schedule service, we find that many of our East Greenwich-area neighbors feel comfortable handling this task at home. Here’s how to change the battery in your Mercedes-Benz key fob at home:

• Determine the type of key you have. Most newer models include a Chrome Key, which only needs one CR 2025 battery. An older Smart Key requires two.
• Either way, you can pick up fresh batteries at our Warwick parts department.

When you’ve picked up the new Mercedes-Benz key battery, it’s simple to take the next steps:

With a Smart Key:

• Pull the latch toward the end of the fob and retrieve the emergency key.
• Insert that key horizontally into the open slot.
• This will allow you to lift out the battery compartment.
• Double-check to make sure you’re inserting the batteries with the proper orientation.

With a Chrome Key:

• Pull the tab at the bottom of the key fob.
• Insert the emergency key into the narrow end of the slot.
• Remove the cover, and replace the battery.
• Remember to make sure the positive side is facing the right way.

If you have any trouble, we can always show you how to perform the process at our service center.

We’re Ready to Help

You can save on a new Mercedes-Benz key fob battery or lower your Mercedes-Benz service cost by taking advantage of our exciting parts and service specials. We’re easy to reach from anywhere near Providence or Cranston, so don’t hesitate to reach out!