Honda Pilot Key Fob Battery: Size, Replacement, Cost, Etc
The fact that you are here right now is probably because you have a warning on the dashboard about your Honda Pilot key fob. Don’t worry, that warning message is normal; there’s nothing to worry about.
If you’ve had your new Pilot for two or three years, you can expect the battery in your key fob to run out. It needs to be replaced. Fortunately, it’s not an expensive or difficult repair.
In this article, I’ll cover some basic things about key fob replacement, including size, cost, and so on.
Symptoms of a Low Battery
When the battery in your key fob starts to run out, you can expect several symptoms to appear.
These symptoms are not serious, but they can be quite annoying if your key fob does not work as it should.
Here are some common symptoms that occur when the key fob battery is running low:
Warning Light on the Dashboard
The latest Honda Pilot model will display a very clear message when the key fob battery starts to run low.
The message will appear on the instrument cluster display (speedometer) and will say something like “Keyless Remote Battery Low,” “Key Battery,” or “Key Battery Low.”
Whatever the wording, the point of the warning message is to let you know that your key fob battery needs to be replaced.
When the message appears, there’s no need to panic; you can continue driving as usual, but be sure to replace the battery with a new one as soon as possible.
Smart Key System or Remote Functions Do Not Work
Another sign you may notice, and this is something I often experience, is that the key fob does not work as smoothly as it should.
When the battery in the key fob is low or about to run out, you may need to press the button several times to unlock or lock the door. Normally, when the battery is in good condition, you only need to press it once.
If your Honda Pilot is the latest model with a smart key system, the car may not be able to detect the key in order to start when the fob battery is low.
The Operation Range Will be Reduced
With a weakening battery, you may not be able to lock or start your Honda Pilot from the distance you’re used to.
I’ve experienced this several times. Usually, I can unlock my Honda Pilot from my bedroom when the car is parked in the garage, but when the battery is weak, I have to get closer to the car to do it.
Battery Size
Key fobs are powered by “coin battery” or button-style batteries, which are commonly used in small devices such as key fobs, watches, and so on.
However, it is important to remember that button-style batteries come in various sizes, and they usually have specific codes such as CR2032, CR1616, CR2016, and many more.
The size of your Honda Pilot key fob battery varies depending on the model. To make it easier for you to find the right battery for your Honda Pilot key fob’s model year, I will display it in a table format.
| Model Year | Key Fob Battery Size |
|---|---|
| 2025 | CR2032 |
| 2024 | CR2032 |
| 2023 | CR2032 |
| 2022 | CR2032 |
| 2021 | CR2032 |
| 2020 | CR2032 |
| 2019 | CR2032 |
| 2018 | CR2032 |
| 2017 | CR2032 |
| 2016 | CR2032 |
| 2015 | CR1616 |
| 2014 | CR1616 |
| 2013 | CR1616 |
| 2012 | CR1616 |
| 2011 | CR1616 |
| 2010 | CR1616 |
| 2009 | CR1616 |
| 2008 | CR1616 |
| 2007 | CR1616 |
| 2006 | CR1616 |
| 2005 | CR1616 |
| 2004 | CR2025 |
| 2003 | CR2025 |
How to Replace
To get started, you will need two things:
- New battery
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver (for older model key fob)
Smart Entry Remote
The newer Honda Pilot comes with a smart key system. Here’s how to replace the battery:
- Make sure you already have the correct size battery.
- Remove the mechanical key.
- Separate the key fob halves. Insert the tip of the mechanical key into the space between the two halves of the key fob and pry them apart gently.
- Once the key fob is open, use a small flat-tip screwdriver to gently pry the dead battery out of its holder.
- Take your new battery and insert it with the positive side facing outward (up/visible). A small red light may flash, indicating the battery is working.
- Reassemble the key fob and replace the mechanical key back into the key fob until it locks in place.
You can also watch the following video from PYR Automotive if you prefer visual instructions.
Key With Combo Remote Transmitter
To replace the battery in a key with a remote combo like this, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. Here are the steps:
- Make sure you already have the correct size battery.
- Remove the screws. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the small screws on the back.
- Once the screws are removed, use a flat-tip screwdriver to pry off the back cover where the battery is located.
- Do the same on the main body of the key fob to open the casing. This will give you access to the battery.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry out and remove the old battery.
- Install the new battery with the positive side facing down.
- Test and reassemble. Don’t forget to reinstall the screws to secure the key fob.
You can also watch the following video if you prefer visual instructions.
Cost
Affordable and easy. That’s what I want to tell you. Yes, replacing a key fob battery is an inexpensive repair.
You can simply buy a $5 coin battery at a convenience store or hardware store in your neighborhood, or online if you don’t have time to go to a store.
The replacement process is very easy, but if you really can’t do it yourself, a Honda dealership or local auto parts store may help you replace it for free—as long as you buy the battery there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recap
Sooner or later, the key fob battery will run out and need to be replaced. Fortunately, it’s an easy and inexpensive repair.
You can do it yourself at home when you notice signs that the key fob battery is starting to weaken. Just make sure to get the right size battery, because the battery size for Honda Pilot key fobs varies depending on the model year.
The battery size chart I’ve provided above will certainly make it easier for you to find the right one.
If you have any further questions or want to share something with other readers, feel free to drop a comment below!
a cat lover, Honda driver, automotive enthusiast, and occasional photographer.
Nurjati is a proud Honda SUV owner and passionate content creator dedicated to sharing expert insights about full-size family SUVs.
His first car in school was a Honda, and she’s been in love with the brand ever since. With over 10 years of experience as a journalist and automotive blogger, Nurjati is committed to keeping enthusiasts and buyers informed and inspired.
