Dead Key Fob Battery medium urgency

Dead Key Fob Battery on a 2023 Ford F-150: How to Get In and Start the Truck

When the key fob battery dies on a 2023 Ford F-150, the truck may not unlock with the buttons and you may see a “Key Fob Battery Low” warning beforehand. The good news: you can still get in and start the vehicle using the built-in backup methods, then replace the coin-cell battery.

Understanding Your Situation

Your F-150 key fob uses a small coin-cell battery to power the remote buttons and transmit signals. When that battery is weak or dead, remote lock/unlock and remote start may stop working, but the truck still has a mechanical door-entry backup and an in-vehicle backup detection method so you can start it.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Use the mechanical key inside the fob to unlock the driver’s door (release the emergency key from the fob, remove the door-handle key cover if equipped, and insert the key to unlock).
  2. Start the truck using the backup fob detection method: with the fob inside the cab, use the designated backup location (often inside the center console/cupholder area on many Ford models) and press the brake and START/STOP. If it doesn’t recognize the fob, reposition it and try again.
  3. Replace the fob battery as soon as possible (commonly a CR2032 coin-cell on many Ford fobs—verify the exact type printed on the old battery or in your owner’s manual).

Your Options

Replace the coin-cell battery yourself

Cost: $3-$15 Time: Same day

Open the key fob case, remove the old coin-cell battery, and install a new one with the correct orientation. Test lock/unlock and remote start afterward. If the fob case is damaged or contacts are corroded, replacement may be needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • Lowest cost fix
  • Usually restores full fob function immediately
âś— Cons:
  • Can be easy to crack the fob housing if pried incorrectly
  • Wrong battery type or reversed polarity will not work

Battery replacement at a dealership or automotive locksmith

Cost: $0-$30 Time: Same day

A dealer parts/service counter or locksmith replaces the battery and can check the fob for damage, weak range, or contact issues. Useful if you’re unsure how to open the fob without breaking it.

âś“ Pros:
  • Less risk of damaging the fob
  • Quick verification the fob is working after replacement
âś— Cons:
  • May require a trip during business hours
  • Some locations charge labor or minimum service fees

Replace the key fob (if battery replacement doesn’t fix it)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If the fob still won’t work after a new battery, the fob may be failed, water-damaged, or have broken buttons/contacts. Replacing the fob typically requires programming to the truck (dealer or qualified locksmith).

âś“ Pros:
  • Restores reliability if the fob itself is defective
  • Can add a spare fob for backup
âś— Cons:
  • More expensive than a battery
  • Programming/compatibility must match your exact F-150 trim and system

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Avoid forcing the fob open with a knife or excessive prying—use a plastic trim tool or follow the seam to prevent cracking the case.

âś• Avoid using off-brand or old-stock batteries; choose a fresh, name-brand coin cell and confirm the correct type (match the number on the original battery).

✕ Avoid leaving the dead fob battery unresolved for long—weak batteries can leak over time and damage the fob’s internal contacts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still start my 2023 Ford F-150 if the key fob battery is dead?

Yes. A dead fob battery usually disables the remote buttons, but the truck has a backup method to detect the fob when it’s placed in the designated backup location inside the cab. Use that method and then press the brake and START/STOP.

What battery does a 2023 Ford F-150 key fob use?

Many Ford F-150 key fobs commonly use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, but it can vary by fob style. The most reliable way is to open the fob and match the battery number printed on the old battery or confirm in your owner’s manual.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after replacing the battery?

Typically, no. Replacing the coin-cell battery does not usually erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a new battery, the issue may be a damaged fob, incorrect battery installation, or another vehicle/fob problem.

Why does my fob work up close but not from a distance?

That’s a common sign of a weak battery or poor battery contact. Replace the battery first and ensure the contacts are clean and the battery is seated firmly.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: you can often still unlock and start the truck using the backup methods, but replace the battery soon to avoid getting stranded later (especially in bad weather or when parked in an unsafe area).

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Ford F-150.

View F-150 Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04