2020–2025 U625 (6th generation)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2020–2025 Ford Explorer key fob takes a CR2450 (2020–2025 Intelligent Access fob; some manuals/fobs differ. Check the old cell when you open it) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
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Quick answer
The 2020–2025 Ford Explorer key fob takes a CR2450 (2020–2025 Intelligent Access fob; some manuals/fobs differ. Check the old cell when you open it) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer 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 Explorer model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Ford Explorer built from 2020 through 2025 — the U625 (6th generation), mid-size 3-row suv (rwd-based cd6 platform, rwd/awd; 2025 refresh). 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 2020–2025 Ford Explorer
- 2020Generation launch on RWD-based CD6 platform; 10-speed automatic across the board; hybrid and 400-hp ST debut; rocky launch quality (see common problems)
- 2021King Ranch and off-road-flavored Timberline (265/65R18 ATs, full-size spare) added; Platinum keeps 365-hp 3.0L
- 2022ST-Line (ST looks, 2.3L) added; ST available RWD; 3.0L Platinum/King Ranch rated 400 hp
- 2024Carryover; final year for the 3.3L hybrid and King Ranch/Timberline/Limited trims
- 2025Major refresh: new fascias, new interior with 13.2-in SYNC 4A touchscreen, trims consolidated to Active/ST-Line/Platinum/ST; hybrid dropped; 2.3L switches to FL-2127 oil filter (~5.0 qt)
2020–2025 Ford Explorer key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2020–2025 Ford Explorer key fob take?
- A single CR2450 (2020–2025 Intelligent Access fob; some manuals/fobs differ. Check the old cell when you open it) coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer key fob?
- Usually. Both are 20 mm across; the 2032 is 3.2 mm thick against the 2025's 2.5 mm, so it holds more charge but is a tighter fit and can strain the contacts in a shallow housing. If the case will not close cleanly, use the specified CR2450 (2020–2025 Intelligent Access fob; some manuals/fobs differ. Check the old cell when you open it).
How do you open a 2020–2025 Ford Explorer 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
- 2020 Explorer Owner's Manual, Capacities and Specifications (fordservicecontent.com)
- CarCareTruth, 2020–2026 Explorer oil type & capacity (from OEM manuals)
- NHTSA recall 23V-675 / Ford 23S55, rear axle bolt replacement
- Ford recall 22S27 (NHTSA 22V-712), rear axle bolt software remedy
- NHTSA recall 23V-342 (Ford 23S23), 360-camera blue image
- Levittown Ford parts, FA-1947 / L1MZ-9601-A engine air filter (3.0L/3.3L)
- Ford Parts Giant, JX6Z-19N619-B cabin air filter, 2020 Explorer
- ExplorerST.org, factory H6 battery, fluid capacities (Mercon ULV, 75W-85 rear axle)
- fueleconomy.gov, 2021 Ford Explorer EPA ratings
- Goodyear / Mavis, 2021–2024 Explorer OE tire sizes by trim
- Car and Driver, 2020 Explorer specs (fuel tank, curb weight, towing)