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2012–2017 JK (2007–2018 platform; US 2012–2017 shown)

2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement

The 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler key fob takes a CR2032 coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.

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Quick answer

The 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler key fob takes a CR2032 coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.

Replacing the 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler model years does this cover?

These key fob battery specifications apply to every Jeep Wrangler built from 2012 through 2017 — the JK (2007–2018 platform; US 2012–2017 shown), off-road suv, solid front/rear axle (2-door; 4-door unlimited). 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 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler

  • 20123.6L Pentastar V6 replaces the old 3.8L V6 across the JK lineup; 5-speed automatic (W5A580) replaces the 4-speed
  • 2013Moab special edition added; minor trim/options shuffle
  • 2015Willys Wheeler and Rubicon Hard Rock special editions; no major mechanical changes
  • 2017Final year of the JK before the JL replaces it for 2018, some 2018-titled JK-based 'Wrangler JK' models were sold as 2018 carryovers alongside the new JL; see JL generation notes

2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler key fob battery: common questions

What battery does the 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler key fob take?

A single CR2032 coin cell.

Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler key fob?

This fob takes a CR2032, 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 2012–2017 Jeep Wrangler 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.

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