Mazda MX-5 Miata Key Fob Battery Remote Replacement DIY Years 2006-2019

Wouldn’t you agree that the Mazda MX-5 Miata is the best-selling two-seat convertible of all time? Talk about its lightweight roadster that was designed around the Japanese phrase—Jinba ittai—meaning oneness of horse and rider.

This mantra can be felt through the vehicle’s impressive performance, neutral steering, 50:50 front-to-rear weight balance, and elegant design!

Plus, Mazda switched over to the “smart” key in 2016 and hasn’t looked back since. With the “smart” key, users can lock, unlock, and push to start while the key is in their pocket.

Additionally, between 2006 and 2015, the MX-5 Miata used the “flip” key fob with a folding internal key and remote locking, unlocking, trunk opening, and panic capabilities.

In this guide, I will walk you through a DIY Mazda MX-5 Miata key fob battery replacement for both of the key fob batteries.

 Looking for a different Mazda key fob?

MODELFOBYEARSBATTERYBUY
MX-5 MiataSmart Key2016, 2017, 2018, 2019CR2025Check on Amazon
MX-5 MiataFlip Key2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015CR1620Check on Amazon

How to Replace the MX-5 Miata 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 Smart Key Fob Battery

Mazda MX-5 Miata Key Fob Battery Replacement

This Mazda MX-5 Miata smart key fob battery replacement process is quick and simple to do. Scroll down to see a full video tutorial or read on for a step-by-step guide.

What you will need:
• 1x CR2025 battery
• Flat-head screwdriver

Final Image Mazda MX5 key

How to swap out the battery in an MX-5 Miata smart key fob

Total Time: 3 minutes

1. Tab on back, remove internal key

Mazda MX5 key Tab on back, remove internal key

First, push the tab on the back of the smart keyless entry remote to remove the internal key.

2. Use screwdriver, twist for separation

Mazda MX5 key Use screwdriver, twist for separation

Locate the grooves on the left and right walls inside the area the key came just from. Insert the head of your flat-head screwdriver into each groove and twist. This will loosen the two halves of the smart key.

3. Insert screwdriver, separate halves apart

Mazda MX5 key Insert screwdriver, separate halves apart

Now, the seams on the sides of the key fob should be coming apart. Insert your small flathead screwdriver into these seams, twist, and work your way down each side until the two halves come apart.

4. Remove battery protector

Mazda MX5 key Remove battery protector

Now that you are inside, the rest is easy. Remove the plastic disc battery protector with your fingers, and pull the bad battery right out.

5. Put in new CR2025 battery face up

Mazda MX5 key Put in new CR2025 battery face up

Time for a battery change. Position your new battery face up in the battery engine compartment. Next, put the plastic disc back on top of the battery, making sure the rubber band is in place.

6. Replace and test key fob

Mazda MX5 key Replace and test key fob

Finally, click the two battery cover pieces of the smart key fob back together. Good job! Your MX-5 Miata key fob is now charged up and ready for use.

To verify the new battery installed is in good condition, push button anywhere on the device or lock and unlock your car doors to see how fast it responds.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Smart Key Fob Battery Replacement (2016 - 2019)

This is the battery for this MX-5 Miata key fob:


How to Replace the MX-5 Miata 2006-2015 Flip Key Fob Battery

Mazda MX-5 Miata Key Fob Battery Replacement

Scroll down to see a full video tutorial or keep reading for a step-by-step guide on Mazda MX-5 Miata key fob battery replacement.

What you will need:
• 1x CR1620 battery
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Precision screwdriver (3.0mm/PH0 or smaller)
-or-
• Pen, pencil, toothpick, or another thin tool

Buy Small Screwdriver Set on Amazon

Step 1

The first thing is to open up the key fob. To start, flip out the internal key. You should see a separation on the plastic sides where the key came out of.

Step 2

Now, use insert your fingers or a small flat-head screwdriver into this space and push upwards until there is a bit of space between the two halves of the fob. You should be able to fit a flat-head screwdriver into the opening on the bottom of the device. Give the screwdriver a twist and the whole key fob should seamlessly open. Set the cover aside.

Step 3

The dead battery in the key fob should be staring at you now. To replace it with a new battery, insert your precision screwdriver (3.0mm/PH0 or smaller) or another small tool into the top-right corner of the engine compartment that holds the battery. Pry the battery out with a rocking motion and slight pressure. If done correctly, the battery should come loose easily.

Step 4

Position your new battery in place, ensuring the positive side is facing down. Push down until it clicks securely into the compartment.

All that’s left now is to connect the two halves of the flip key fob back together. Do this in reverse order.

Well done, that was an excellent Mazda Mx 5 Miata key fob battery replacement!  Now you have a brand new keyless entry system battery in your Miata key fob. 

 

Mazda MX-5 Miata Flip Key Fob Battery Replacement (2006 - 2015)

This is the battery for this MX-5 Miata key fob:


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I perform a Mazda Mx 5 Miata key fob battery replacement myself?

Yes, you absolutely can. Most car manufacturers of the 2019 Mazda Mx 5 Miata already put this into consideration by making a special hole that enhances a remote key fob opening. You can also consult

Is it better to take my key fob batteries replacement to a car dealer?

If you’re on a budget, save yourself some extra cost by replacing your keyless entry system batteries remotely. The videos and instructions above will put you through every step.

How do I know it’s time for my Mazda Mx 5 Miata battery replacement?

Your key fob batteries will exhibit the following conditions or warning signs to indicate a need for replacement.

  • Weak signal strength

  • Low key indicator light

  • Slow button response.

  • Electrical accessories such as fans and headlights will cease to function properly or may function at all, and the engine may not start.

Note that, your key fob batteries are gradually losing battery power even if you don’t use them. Hence, if you haven’t changed your old battery for over 4 years, consider doing so.

 

Conclusion

Next time you have a dead battery or you notice a malfunction in your key fob, simply replace the old battery according to the following procedure above. It is advisable to refer to the owners manual to determine the right battery type. Your vehicles key fob will not function if you replace it with the wrong battery. Also, to avoid causing serious injury to the key fob, use an appropriate new battery.