Dead Key Fob Battery medium urgency

Dead Key Fob Battery on a 2023 Honda CR‑V: How to Get Back In and Start It

If your 2023 Honda CR‑V key fob suddenly won’t unlock the doors or the car says “Keyless Remote Battery Low/Dead,” the fob battery is likely depleted. The good news: you can still get into the vehicle and start it, then replace the battery in minutes.

Understanding Your Situation

The CR‑V’s keyless entry and push-button start rely on a small coin-cell battery inside the remote. When that battery is weak or dead, the remote can’t transmit reliably, but the vehicle still has a built-in backup method to unlock the door and read the fob at close range for starting.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Unlock the door using the hidden mechanical key: press the release on the fob to pull out the emergency key, then use the key cylinder (typically behind a small cover on the driver’s door handle) to unlock.
  2. Start the CR‑V using the backup fob-reading method: hold the fob right up to the START/STOP button (or follow the on-screen prompt), press the brake, then press START. This allows the car to detect the fob even with a dead battery.
  3. Replace the fob battery as soon as possible: open the fob case carefully, install a new coin-cell battery of the correct type (commonly CR2032 for many Honda remotes—verify by checking the marking on the old battery or your owner’s manual), and test lock/unlock and remote start (if equipped).

Your Options

DIY battery replacement (recommended for most owners)

Cost: $3-$10 Time: Same day

Open the key fob, swap in a new coin-cell battery (match the exact number printed on the old battery), and reassemble the fob. No programming is required for a battery change.

✓ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • No dealer visit; no reprogramming needed
✗ Cons:
  • Easy to crack the case or lose small parts if pried aggressively
  • Wrong battery type or upside-down installation can cause continued failure

Battery replacement at a parts store or locksmith

Cost: $10-$30 Time: Same day

A parts retailer or locksmith replaces the coin-cell battery and verifies the fob works. Some locations will do this while you wait.

✓ Pros:
  • Less risk of damaging the fob case
  • Quick confirmation the fob is working after replacement
✗ Cons:
  • May be limited by store hours/availability
  • Not all shops stock the correct battery or handle all Honda fob styles

Honda dealer diagnosis (if a new battery doesn’t fix it)

Cost: $0-$200+ (diagnosis may apply); replacement fob typically $250-$500+ programmed Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If the fob still won’t work after a correct battery swap, the dealer can test the remote, check for vehicle-side issues, and quote replacement if needed.

✓ Pros:
  • Accurate diagnosis and OEM parts
  • Proper programming if a new fob is required
✗ Cons:
  • Highest cost option
  • May require an appointment and proof of ownership

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t force the door handle cover or key fob case—use gentle pressure and a non-marring tool to avoid breaking clips.

✕ Don’t install a different coin-cell type “because it fits” (or stack batteries). Use the exact type printed on the original battery.

✕ Don’t assume the car battery is dead just because the fob won’t work—try the mechanical key entry and the backup start method first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my 2023 Honda CR‑V if the key fob battery is dead?

Yes. You can unlock the door with the hidden mechanical key and start the vehicle using the backup method by holding the fob close to the START/STOP button. Once started, you can drive normally, but replace the fob battery soon to avoid being locked out later.

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

No. A battery replacement does not erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after installing the correct new battery (proper orientation), the fob may be damaged or there may be another issue that needs diagnosis.

What battery does the 2023 Honda CR‑V key fob use?

Many Honda remotes commonly use a CR2032 coin-cell, but you should confirm by checking the number printed on your old battery or referencing your owner’s manual for your exact fob.

Why does it work only when the fob is very close to the car?

With a weak/dead battery, the fob can’t transmit normally at distance. The CR‑V has a short-range backup detection method that can read the fob when it’s held right near the start button (or designated sensing area), allowing you to start the vehicle.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: replace the fob battery soon. A dead fob battery can leave you locked out or unable to start away from home, especially if your second fob also has a weak battery.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Honda CR-V.

View CR-V Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04