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2017–2023 1st generation (original, pre-Highland)

2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement

The 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 key fob takes a CR2032 (optional accessory key fob). The standard key card and phone key have no battery to replace. coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.

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Quick answer

The 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 key fob takes a CR2032 (optional accessory key fob). The standard key card and phone key have no battery to replace. coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.

Replacing the 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 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 Tesla Model 3 model years does this cover?

These key fob battery specifications apply to every Tesla Model 3 built from 2017 through 2023 — the 1st generation (original, pre-Highland), compact ev sedan. 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.

2017 Model 32018 Model 32019 Model 32020 Model 32021 Model 32022 Model 32023 Model 3

What changed during the 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3

  • 2017US deliveries began July 2017, Long Range RWD only (310 mi), 18-in Aero or 19-in Sport wheels
  • 2018Dual Motor Long Range AWD and Performance added mid-year; Mid Range RWD (264 mi) added in October
  • 2019Standard Range and Standard Range Plus launch (Feb); Long Range RWD and Mid Range dropped during the year; Autopilot made standard
  • 2021Major running refresh: heat pump replaces the PTC heater, chrome delete, powered trunk, new center console, double-pane front glass, 82 kWh pack on LR/Performance, ranges rise (SR+ 263 mi, LR 353 mi, Performance 315 mi)
  • 2022SR+ renamed 'RWD' with a 272-mi LFP battery (charge to 100% weekly). Cars built after ~Dec 2021 switch the 12V lead-acid accessory battery for a 16V Li-ion unit
  • 2023Final year of the original body; carryover, with the original-generation production ending late 2023 for the Highland changeover

2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 key fob battery: common questions

What battery does the 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 key fob take?

A single CR2032 (optional accessory key fob). The standard key card and phone key have no battery to replace. coin cell.

Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 key fob?

This fob takes a CR2032 (optional accessory key fob). The standard key card and phone key have no battery to replace., 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 2017–2023 Tesla Model 3 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

Other Tesla Model 3 generations

2024–2025 key fob batteryCompare all generations

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