There’s nothing quite as frustrating as heading out for an adventure, grabbing your keys, and realizing your Ford Explorer’s key fob isn’t responding. You press the unlock button, and… nothing. No reassuring click, no flashing lights. This dead key fob scenario is more than just an inconvenience; it can leave you stranded, especially when you’re far from home or deep on a trail.
Before you panic or head to the dealership, know that tackling this common issue yourself is surprisingly simple. This guide will walk you through how to change battery in 2017 Ford Explorer key fob with confidence, saving you time, money, and a potential headache. We’ll cover everything from recognizing the signs of a dying battery to the step-by-step replacement process, ensuring you’re back in control of your vehicle in minutes.
Recognizing the Signs: Is Your Key Fob Battery Dying?
A key fob battery doesn’t usually die without warning. Your 2017 Ford Explorer’s intelligent access key is designed to give you subtle hints that its power source is dwindling. Paying attention to these signals can prevent you from being caught off guard.
First, you might notice a reduced range. You have to be closer to your Explorer than usual for the remote lock or unlock features to work. What used to function from across a parking lot now requires you to be right next to the driver’s door.
Another common indicator is intermittent functionality. Sometimes the buttons work, sometimes they don’t. This can be particularly frustrating when you’re trying to quickly lock up at a trailhead or remote campsite.
Your vehicle itself might even tell you. Many Ford Explorer models will display a “Key Fob Battery Low” or “Key Not Detected” message on the dashboard instrument cluster. Don’t ignore these warnings; they’re a direct signal to address the issue promptly.
Finally, if your remote start stops working, or you find yourself needing to use the physical key to unlock the door more often, these are strong clues. A weak battery struggles to send a consistent signal to the vehicle.
Essential Tools and Materials for Key Fob Battery Replacement
Before you dive into the replacement process, gather a few simple tools and the correct replacement battery. Having everything on hand will make the job quick and seamless.
The Right Battery Type: CR2450
For your 2017 Ford Explorer intelligent access key fob, you’ll need a CR2450 3V lithium coin cell battery. This specific battery type is crucial for proper function and fit. Do not try to substitute with other sizes like a CR2032, as it won’t fit correctly and could damage the fob.
You can find CR2450 batteries at most electronics stores, supermarkets, or online retailers. It’s a good idea to keep a spare in your glove box or toolkit, especially if you frequently head off-road or into remote areas where a quick battery swap could be critical.
Tools You’ll Need
The good news is you won’t need a specialized mechanic’s toolkit for this job. Most of what you need you probably already have around the house or in your vehicle’s emergency kit.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: This is essential for prying open the key fob casing. Choose one with a thin blade that can easily slip into the small seam without causing damage. A jeweler’s screwdriver set often has the perfect size.
- Plastic Pry Tool (Optional but Recommended): While a flathead screwdriver works, a plastic pry tool (like those used for phone repair or automotive trim removal) can be gentler on the plastic casing, reducing the risk of scratches or dents.
- New CR2450 Battery: As mentioned, ensure it’s a fresh, correctly sized battery.
- Clean Cloth: Useful for wiping down the key fob components if needed, or for holding the fob firmly without scratching it.
Always work on a clean, well-lit surface. This helps prevent small parts from getting lost and ensures you can clearly see what you’re doing.
How to Change Battery in 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob: Step-by-Step
Now, let’s get down to business. This process is straightforward, but taking your time and following each step carefully will ensure a successful battery replacement.
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
The first step is to access the internal components of your key fob. Look at the top or side of your key fob. You’ll notice a small button or latch. Press this button, and the physical emergency key blade will slide out from the bottom or side of the fob.
This emergency key is crucial for manually unlocking your Explorer if the fob battery is completely dead. Set it aside in a safe place where it won’t get lost.
Step 2: Locate the Key Fob Seam
With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a small slot or seam where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. This slot is usually located near where the emergency key was housed.
This is where your small flathead screwdriver or plastic pry tool comes into play. The goal is to gently separate the two halves of the casing.
Step 3: Carefully Pry Open the Casing
Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or plastic pry tool into the seam you just located. Apply gentle, steady pressure and twist the tool slightly. You should hear a faint click as the plastic clips holding the two halves together begin to release.
Work your way around the seam, gently prying it open. Be patient and avoid excessive force, as you could damage the plastic tabs or scratch the casing. The two halves should eventually separate completely, revealing the circuit board and the battery tray inside.
Pro Tip: If you’re struggling, try applying pressure from different points along the seam. The plastic is designed to flex slightly.
Step 4: Remove the Old Battery
Once the casing is open, you’ll see the circular coin cell battery. It’s usually held in place by a small clip or tray on the circuit board.
Carefully use your flathead screwdriver or a fingernail to gently pry the old CR2450 battery out of its holder. Note the orientation of the battery before you remove it – typically, the positive (+) side faces upwards, or towards you. This is important for correct installation of the new battery.
Take care not to touch the circuit board directly with your fingers, as oils and static electricity can potentially cause damage. Handle the battery by its edges.
Step 5: Insert the New CR2450 Battery
Now, take your fresh CR2450 battery. Ensure you orient it correctly, matching the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals with the markings on the key fob or how the old battery was positioned. For most 2017 Ford Explorer key fobs, the positive (+) side of the battery faces up, or towards the side with the buttons.
Gently slide the new battery into the holder, ensuring it sits snugly and is fully engaged under the clips. It should snap into place without needing to be forced.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
With the new battery in place, carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Make sure the buttons are properly seated and that the internal components haven’t shifted.
Press the two halves firmly together until you hear and feel them click back into place. Work your way around the edges to ensure all the clips are securely fastened. There should be no gaps in the seam.
Step 7: Reinsert the Emergency Key
Finally, slide the emergency key blade back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks and locks into position. Your key fob should now be fully assembled and ready for testing.
Testing Your Refreshed Key Fob
After successfully completing the battery replacement, it’s time to test your work. Head over to your 2017 Ford Explorer and try out the key fob’s functions.
First, try locking and unlocking the doors from a reasonable distance. You should notice an immediate improvement in range and responsiveness. If the lights flash and the doors cycle, you’re off to a great start.
Next, test the remote start feature if your Explorer is equipped with it. This is a good indicator that the fob is transmitting a strong signal. Finally, try starting the vehicle normally. Your Explorer should recognize the key fob without any “Key Not Detected” warnings.
If everything works as expected, congratulations! You’ve successfully completed the battery replacement. If you encounter any issues, don’t worry, we’ll cover some troubleshooting tips next.
Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Issues After Battery Change
While changing the key fob battery is usually a straightforward fix, sometimes things don’t go perfectly. Here are a few common issues and how to troubleshoot them.
Fob Still Not Working
If your key fob still isn’t working after replacing the battery, double-check a few things:
- Battery Orientation: Is the new CR2450 battery installed with the correct positive (+) and negative (-) orientation? This is the most common mistake.
- Battery Quality: Is the new battery fresh? Sometimes “new” batteries can be old stock or faulty. Try a different new battery if you have one.
- Connections: Ensure the battery is sitting firmly in its tray and making good contact with the terminals. Gently bend the small metal tabs if they seem too flat to make contact.
- Fob Damage: Inspect the circuit board for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose components. If you dropped the fob previously, internal damage might be the culprit.
“Key Not Detected” Message Persists
Even with a new battery, your Explorer might still display a “Key Not Detected” message. This can happen, especially if the battery was completely dead for a while.
Your 2017 Ford Explorer has a backup starting procedure. Locate the emergency key slot, usually found in the center console or a designated area near the steering column. Place your key fob directly into this slot. This allows the vehicle to read the fob’s transponder chip directly, even if the remote functions aren’t working.
Once the key is in the slot, try to start the vehicle. This often helps the car “re-learn” the key fob’s presence. If it starts, remove the fob from the slot and try starting it normally. If the problem persists, you might have a more complex issue, possibly requiring a visit to a dealership for reprogramming, though this is rare after a simple battery change.
Physical Key Not Working in Door Lock
If you’re using the physical emergency key to unlock the door, and it’s not turning, first ensure you’re using the correct door lock cylinder. Some vehicles only have a physical key slot on the driver’s side door handle. Also, ensure the key is fully inserted and try wiggling it gently while turning.
If the key still won’t turn, the lock cylinder itself might be frozen or jammed, especially in cold weather or if it hasn’t been used in a long time. A bit of graphite lubricant might help.
Extending Your Key Fob Battery Life
Now that you know how to change battery in 2017 Ford Explorer key fob, here are some tips to get the most out of your new battery and prevent premature failure.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Just like your phone, key fob batteries don’t like extreme heat or cold. Leaving your fob on the dashboard in direct sunlight during summer, or in a freezing vehicle overnight, can shorten its lifespan. Try to keep it in a moderate environment.
Keep it Dry: Water and electronics don’t mix. While key fobs have some water resistance, they are not waterproof. If your fob gets wet, open it up (after removing the battery) and let it air dry completely before reassembling. This is especially important for off-roaders who might encounter unexpected water crossings or heavy rain.
Minimize Button Presses: Every time you press a button, the fob sends a signal, using a small amount of battery power. While you can’t avoid using it, try not to “fidget” with the buttons unnecessarily, especially when out of range of your vehicle.
Avoid RFID Interference: Some electronic devices or even other key fobs can interfere with your fob’s signal, potentially causing it to work harder and drain faster. Keep your key fob separate from other devices when not in use.
Carry a Spare: For those who frequently venture into the wilderness or on long road trips, keeping a spare CR2450 battery in your emergency kit is a smart move. A dead key fob in a remote area can be a real problem, and a quick swap can save your day.
Why DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement Matters for Off-Roaders
For the “FatBoysOffroad” crew, understanding how to perform basic DIY maintenance like changing a key fob battery isn’t just about saving a few bucks—it’s about self-reliance and preparedness. Imagine you’re miles deep on a challenging trail, maybe near a remote campsite, and your Explorer’s key fob suddenly goes dead.
Without the knowledge to quickly swap out that CR2450 battery, you’re left with limited options. You might have to manually unlock the door with the physical key, which works, but then face the “Key Not Detected” message when trying to start. Knowing the emergency start procedure (placing the fob in the specific slot) is critical in these situations.
Having a spare battery and the simple tools on hand means you can resolve the issue on the spot. No need to call for a tow, no desperate search for a park ranger with a spare battery, and no cutting your adventure short. It’s a small skill with a big impact on your peace of mind and your ability to keep exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery
What kind of battery does a 2017 Ford Explorer key fob take?
Your 2017 Ford Explorer key fob, specifically the intelligent access key, requires a CR2450 3V lithium coin cell battery. It’s crucial to use this exact type for proper fit and function.
How long do 2017 Ford Explorer key fob batteries last?
Typically, a 2017 Ford Explorer key fob battery should last between 3 to 5 years. However, this can vary based on usage frequency, environmental conditions (like extreme temperatures), and the quality of the battery itself. Regular use of features like remote start can also slightly reduce lifespan.
Do I need to reprogram my key fob after changing the battery?
No, in most cases, you do not need to reprogram your 2017 Ford Explorer key fob after simply changing the battery. The key fob retains its programming even when the battery is removed. If you experience issues after replacement, ensure the new battery is correctly installed and try the backup starting procedure (placing the fob in the emergency slot) to re-establish communication.
What if my key fob gets wet?
If your key fob gets wet, immediately remove the emergency key and carefully pry open the casing. Remove the battery and allow all components to air dry completely for at least 24-48 hours in a dry, warm place (but not hot, like direct sun). Do not try to use a hairdryer, as excessive heat can damage the circuit board. Once fully dry, reinsert a new battery and reassemble.
Conclusion: Stay Powered, Stay Adventurous
Changing the battery in your 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is a simple, empowering DIY task that every Explorer owner should know. It’s a quick fix that can save you from inconvenient situations, especially when you’re out enjoying the open road or tackling challenging trails.
By following these steps, you not only restore full functionality to your intelligent access key but also gain valuable experience in maintaining your vehicle. Remember to use the correct CR2450 battery, work carefully, and keep a spare on hand for those unexpected moments. Your Ford Explorer is built for adventure, and with a fully functional key fob, you’re always ready to answer the call of the wild. Stay safe and stay comfortable!
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