2012–2018 Ram 1500 Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement

Which Ram 1500 model years does this cover?

These key fob battery specifications apply to every Ram 1500 built from 2012 through 2018 — the DS (4th generation; sold 2019–2024 as Ram 1500 Classic), full-size half-ton pickup (regular, quad, crew cab). 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 2012–2018 Ram 1500

• 2012Carryover powertrains: 3.7L V6 (4-spd), 4.7L V8 (6-spd), 5.7L HEMI; hydraulic steering; HOAT coolant
• 2013Major refresh: 3.6L Pentastar + ZF 8-speed arrive, electric power steering, optional air suspension, RamBox and 8.4-in Uconnect expand; coolant switches to 10-year OAT
• 20143.0L EcoDiesel V6 added (first half-ton diesel of the modern era); 4.7L V8 dropped after 2013
• 2015Off-road-focused Rebel trim debuts mid-year with a factory-tuned suspension, off-road tires, and unique styling; interior/trim options broaden
• 2015–2018Rebel added (2015, 285/70R17 tires); Limited becomes flagship; mechanical specs otherwise carry over
• 2016Essentially unchanged: redesigned center console standard across the lineup; Rebel (introduced mid-2015) gains new interior color choices including Radar Red
• 2018DS production continued after 2018 as the 'Ram 1500 Classic' (2019–2024, Tradesman/Express/Warlock/Big Horn trims) sold alongside the new DT. This generation's data applies to those Classic trucks; the DT generation below covers same-year 'new body' trucks

What battery does the 2012–2018 Ram 1500 key fob take?

A single CR2032 (Keyless Enter-N-Go fob and flip-key fobik) coin cell.

Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012–2018 Ram 1500 key fob?

This fob takes a CR2032 (Keyless Enter-N-Go fob and flip-key fobik), 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 2012–2018 Ram 1500 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.