2020 Nissan Sentra: Key Fob Battery Replacement Guide

Nov 11, 2025 by Admin 54 views

Hey guys! Is your 2020 Nissan Sentra key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Chances are, the battery is probably running low. Don't sweat it; replacing the battery in your key fob is a simple task you can totally handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, saving you a trip to the dealership and a bit of cash. Let's dive in!

What You'll Need

Before we get started, gather these few items. It’s all pretty basic stuff:

A new CR2032 battery. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, or online retailers like Amazon. They're super common.
A small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool for prying. A small knife or even a guitar pick can work in a pinch, but be careful not to scratch anything.
A soft cloth to protect the key fob from scratches.

Step-by-Step Replacement Instructions

Okay, let’s get down to business. Follow these steps, and you'll have that new battery in no time!

Step 1: Locate the Notch or Seam

First, take a close look at your 2020 Nissan Sentra key fob. You're looking for a small notch or seam. This is usually located on the side or the bottom of the fob. This is where you'll insert your tool to open it up.
Pro Tip: Having good lighting here is super helpful. You don't want to be fumbling around in the dark!

Step 2: Open the Key Fob

Now, gently insert your flathead screwdriver (or whatever tool you're using) into the notch or seam. Apply a little pressure and twist gently. The goal here is to separate the two halves of the key fob without using excessive force.
Be careful not to scratch the plastic. Use that soft cloth we talked about to protect the surface. If it doesn't pop open easily, try a different spot along the seam or apply a tiny bit more pressure. Patience is key here! Don't try to force it open as this could damage the key fob.
Sometimes, the key fob might have a physical key that needs to be removed first. Check if there's a small button or latch that releases the key. If so, remove the key before attempting to open the fob.

Step 3: Remove the Old Battery

Once you've got the key fob open, you'll see the battery. It's usually held in place by a small clip or bracket.
Take note of how the old battery is oriented. You'll need to insert the new one the same way. Usually, there's a small “+” sign indicating the positive side. Make sure you remember which side is up!
Use your small screwdriver (or your finger, if you can) to gently pry the old battery out of its holder. Be careful not to damage the surrounding components. It should pop out with a little encouragement.

Step 4: Insert the New Battery

Grab your new CR2032 battery. Make sure you're holding it the right way up, matching the orientation of the old battery you just removed.
Slide the new battery into the holder. You should hear a small click or feel it snap into place. Make sure it's secure and doesn't wiggle around.
Double-check that the battery is correctly seated. A loose battery can cause intermittent issues with your key fob.

Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob

Now it's time to put the key fob back together. Align the two halves of the fob and gently press them together. You should hear a click as they snap back into place.
Make sure the seam is flush all the way around. If there are any gaps, try pressing a little harder or check to see if anything is obstructing the closure. Ensure all the internal components are properly aligned before fully snapping the case shut.
If you removed a physical key earlier, don't forget to slide it back into its slot until it clicks into place.

Step 6: Test the Key Fob

Alright, the moment of truth! Test the key fob to make sure it's working properly. Try locking and unlocking your car, and test the remote start function if your car has it.
If the key fob still doesn't work, double-check that the battery is installed correctly and that the contacts are clean. You might also want to try a different new battery, just in case the first one was faulty.

Troubleshooting

Okay, so you've followed all the steps, but your key fob is still not working? Don't panic! Here are a few things to check:

Battery Orientation: Double, triple-check that the battery is installed with the correct polarity (+ side up, usually). This is the most common mistake.
Battery Contacts: Make sure the metal contacts that touch the battery are clean and making good contact. You can gently clean them with a cotton swab and a little bit of rubbing alcohol.
Key Fob Damage: Inspect the key fob for any signs of damage, such as cracks or broken components. If the fob is damaged, you may need to replace it.
Car Battery: Believe it or not, a low car battery can sometimes cause issues with the key fob. Make sure your car battery is in good condition.
Key Fob Programming: In some cases, you may need to reprogram the key fob to your car. Check your owner's manual for instructions on how to do this, or contact your local Nissan dealer.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few extra tips to make the process even smoother:

Protect the Fob: Use a soft cloth or tape to protect the key fob from scratches while you're working on it.
Gentle Pressure: Don't use excessive force when opening the key fob. Gentle pressure is all you need.
Proper Tools: Using the right tools can make the job easier and prevent damage.
Read the Manual: Your car's owner's manual may have specific instructions for replacing the key fob battery.
Keep a Spare: It's always a good idea to keep a spare key fob battery on hand, just in case.

Conclusion

And there you have it! Replacing the battery in your 2020 Nissan Sentra key fob is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps, and you'll be back in action in no time. You've saved yourself a trip to the dealer and some money – go you! Remember to take your time, be gentle, and double-check everything. If you run into any snags, don't hesitate to consult your owner's manual or contact a professional. Now go enjoy the convenience of a fully functional key fob! You got this!