2012 2nd generation (final year)
2012 Ford Escape Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2012 Ford Escape key fob takes a CR2032 (separate remote fob and integrated keyhead transmitters) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
Last verified
Quick answer
The 2012 Ford Escape key fob takes a CR2032 (separate remote fob and integrated keyhead transmitters) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2012 Ford Escape key fob battery
- Pry the fob open gently at the seam with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, working around the edge. Many fobs have a hidden release slot near the key ring or emergency-key blade.
- Note the battery orientation (usually positive side up) before removing the old cell.
- Avoid touching the new battery's faces with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten its life.
- If the fob doesn't work after replacement, check that the battery is seated fully and the contacts weren't bent. Most vehicles do not need re-pairing after a battery change.
Which Ford Escape model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Ford Escape built from 2012 through 2012 — the 2nd generation (final year), compact suv (boxy body style; fwd or 4wd). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2012 Ford Escape
- 2012Final year of the 2nd generation and of the original Escape Hybrid; replaced by the all-new 2013 model. Mechanically identical to 2010–2011.
2012 Ford Escape key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2012 Ford Escape key fob take?
- A single CR2032 (separate remote fob and integrated keyhead transmitters) coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012 Ford Escape key fob?
- This fob takes a CR2032 (separate remote fob and integrated keyhead transmitters), so start there. The two cells share a 20 mm diameter but differ in thickness, and the thicker one does not always seat in a housing built for the thinner.
How do you open a 2012 Ford Escape key fob?
- Slide out the mechanical emergency key first, which usually releases a catch, then part the halves with a plastic pry tool or a coin wrapped in tape. A screwdriver will mark the case and can crack the seam.
Sources
- AMSOIL lookup, 2012 Escape 2.5L capacities/torques
- AMSOIL lookup, 2012 Escape 3.0L V6 (6 qt, 5W-20)
- AutoZone, 2012 Escape battery (Group 96R) and wiper fitment
- fueleconomy.gov, 2012 Ford Escape / Escape Hybrid EPA ratings
- Samarins, 2008–2012 Ford Escape common problems review
- Car and Driver, 2012 Escape XLS specs (fuel tank, curb weight)
- XenonPro, 2008–2012 Escape bulb size chart (H13, 5202)