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2024 Kia Forte Dead Key Fob Battery: How to Start, Unlock, and Replace It (US)

A dead key fob battery on a 2024 Kia Forte can stop remote lock/unlock and may prevent push-button starting until you use the backup method. The good news: you can usually get in and start the car right away, then replace the coin-cell battery in minutes.

Understanding Your Situation

The small coin-cell battery inside the Forte’s smart key/remote has dropped below the voltage needed to transmit a strong signal. The car may still recognize the fob at very close range, but remote functions often fail first.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Unlock the door using the hidden mechanical key inside the fob (release the latch on the fob, pull out the emergency key, and use the driver’s door key cylinder if equipped).
  2. If the Forte has push-button start, start the car using the emergency start procedure: hold the fob against/near the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START (the car can read the transponder at close range even with a weak/dead fob battery).
  3. Replace the fob battery as soon as possible (commonly a CR2032 coin cell for Kia smart keys, but verify the exact type printed on your old battery or in your owner’s manual).

Your Options

DIY: Replace the coin-cell battery in the key fob

Cost: $3-$12 Time: Same day

Open the fob case, remove the old coin-cell battery, and install a new one with the correct polarity. Test lock/unlock and starting afterward.

âś“ Pros:
  • Lowest cost
  • Fast and convenient
  • Usually restores full range immediately
âś— Cons:
  • Risk of cracking the case or damaging the seal if pried incorrectly
  • Wrong battery type or upside-down installation can cause continued issues

Retail help: Battery replacement at an auto parts store or big-box retailer

Cost: $5-$25 Time: Same day

Bring the fob in and have staff help verify the battery type and replace it. Some stores do this as a courtesy while you purchase the battery.

âś“ Pros:
  • Quick and hands-off
  • Helps ensure correct battery type
  • Often no appointment needed
âś— Cons:
  • Service availability varies by location
  • They may not handle all fob designs or liability for damage

Dealer service: Key fob battery replacement and function check

Cost: $0-$40 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A Kia dealer replaces the battery and can check for other causes (damaged fob, weak vehicle battery, receiver issues) if the problem persists.

âś“ Pros:
  • Professional handling and verification
  • Can diagnose if it’s not just the battery
  • May be covered as a courtesy depending on dealer policies
âś— Cons:
  • Potential wait time and higher cost
  • Travel/appointment may be required

Mobile locksmith: Battery replacement and fob health check

Cost: $50-$150 Time: Same day

A mobile automotive locksmith can replace the battery and test the fob, and can provide a replacement fob if yours is failing beyond the battery.

âś“ Pros:
  • Comes to you (helpful if stranded)
  • Can confirm whether the fob itself is failing
  • Can often supply/program a replacement if needed
âś— Cons:
  • More expensive than DIY
  • Quality varies—use a reputable, insured locksmith

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t force the fob open with a knife or excessive prying—use a plastic pry tool if possible to avoid cracking the case or damaging internal clips.

✕ Don’t install a random coin cell “that fits”—use the exact battery type specified/printed on the old battery (commonly CR2032) and confirm polarity (+/-).

✕ Don’t assume it’s the fob battery if the car won’t start—if the vehicle’s 12V battery is weak, the Forte may not start even with a good fob.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using wrong battery type
  • Damaging case during opening
  • Not resetting after replacement
  • Buying expensive batteries

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start my 2024 Kia Forte if the key fob battery is dead?

If equipped with push-button start, hold the fob directly against/very near the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START. The car can read the fob at close range even if the fob battery is dead or very weak.

What battery does a 2024 Kia Forte key fob use?

Many Kia smart keys use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, but it can vary by fob style/trim. The most reliable way to confirm is to open the fob and read the battery number printed on the old battery or check your owner’s manual.

Will replacing the fob battery erase programming or require reprogramming?

Typically no. Replacing the coin-cell battery does not usually erase the fob’s pairing/programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a new battery, the issue may be the fob, vehicle receiver, or a low 12V car battery.

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

That’s a classic sign of a weak coin-cell battery. The fob’s radio signal becomes too weak for normal range but may still work when very close to the vehicle.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: you can often unlock and start the Forte using the backup methods, but replace the battery soon to avoid being locked out or unable to start in a hurry—especially in bad weather or low-light situations.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Kia Forte.

View Forte Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04