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Can You Use a CR2032 Instead of a CR2016 in a Key Fob?

CR2032 and CR2016 cells share a 3 V rating and 20 mm diameter, but their thickness differs. Find out why the larger cell usually is not a safe key-fob substitute.
Entry774 Date Time2 min MechanicCarCody Team
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Usually, no. A CR2032 and CR2016 are both 3-volt, 20 mm coin cells, but the CR2032 is twice as thick. It may not fit a key fob built for a CR2016; forcing the fob closed can damage its case or battery contacts. Use the battery code specified on the old cell or in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Why a CR2032 usually is not a suitable substitute

The cells match in nominal voltage and diameter, but not thickness. A CR2032 may therefore be too tall for a holder designed around a CR2016. The manufacturer’s comparison warns that forcing a tight fit can stress the enclosure or contacts. These dimensions and fit risks are general; they do not establish compatibility for a particular vehicle or fob variant.

Battery Nominal voltage Diameter Thickness Typical capacity
CR2016 3.0 V 20 mm 1.6 mm 100 mAh
CR2032 3.0 V 20 mm 3.2 mm 235 mAh

Dimensions and typical capacities in the table are from MOZ Electronics’ June 22, 2026 comparison, which attributes the capacity figures to Energizer data sheets. The underlying data sheets were not provided with the comparison, and capacity is not a guaranteed runtime: actual performance depends on the cell and the fob’s load.

How to confirm the right battery for your fob

  1. Open the fob according to the vehicle owner’s manual, taking care not to damage the case or contacts.
  2. Read the code printed on the installed battery. If it differs from the manual, check the manual for your exact vehicle and fob version before buying a replacement.
  3. Install a fresh cell with the specified code and orientation. If the marking is unreadable or the manual is unclear, ask the vehicle maker or a qualified dealer to identify the correct battery.

Key-fob battery requirements vary by device, so matching voltage and diameter alone is not enough to approve a substitute. For a broader explanation of why battery suitability depends on device requirements and testing, see Keysight’s coin-battery testing application note.

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#1 Best Overall
Duracell 2032 Lithium Battery, 4 Count, AirTag & Key Fob, CR2032 3V Cell
  • COMPATIBLE WITH AIRTAG & KEY FOBS: Works with Apple AirTag, all major car key fobs (Toyota, Honda, BMW, Ford, Chevrolet, Lexus), fitness trackers, glucose monitors, tire pressure sensors, and any CR2032 / 3V lithium coin battery device.
  • CHILD SAFETY: BITTER TASTE ON BOTH SIDES TO HELP KEEP CHILDREN SAFE—Duracell CR2032 features a bitter taste coating applied to BOTH SIDES of the battery to help deter accidental ingestion by young children.
  • SUPERIOR LONGEVITY: Duracell Lasts Longer Than Energizer 3-In-1* | *Duracell 2032 size only. Based on ANSI Digital Household test vs. Energizer 2032 3-in-1.
  • QUALITY ASSURANCE: Every Duracell lithium coin battery is manufactured to precise specifications and guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship. Trusted in medical devices and safety applications.
  • FAMILY-SAFE PACKAGING: Duracell CR2032 batteries are sold in child-safe packaging—an additional layer of safety for households with young children.

What if the fob needs a CR2032?

A CR2016 is thinner than a CR2032. In a holder designed for a CR2032, it may not maintain reliable contact, which can cause intermittent operation or prevent the fob from working. MOZ Electronics describes this contact risk in its CR2016 and CR2032 comparison.

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Do not stack two CR2016 cells

Two CR2016 cells stacked in series produce about 6 V, rather than the 3 V supplied by one CR2032. Do not use that arrangement unless the device was designed for it; it is not a general way to replace a CR2032.

Quick Recap

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CR2032 Key Fob Replacement Batteries, Universal Fit, Pack of 2
CR2032 Key Fob Replacement Batteries, Universal Fit, Pack of 2
Avoid expensive dealer service charges and easily replace your key fob battery yourself; Easy guide to changing your key fob battery in the description
$14.99
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Energizer 2032 Batteries (4 Pack), 3V Lithium Coin Batteries
Energizer 2032 Batteries (4 Pack), 3V Lithium Coin Batteries
4 pack of Energizer 2032 Batteries, 3V Lithium Coin Batteries. Packaging may vary
$6.55
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Energizer 2032 Batteries (4 Pack), 3V Lithium Coin Batteries
  • 4 pack of Energizer 2032 Batteries, 3V Lithium Coin Batteries. Packaging may vary
  • Featuring the world's first 3-in-1 Child Shield with three lines of defense: Color Alert, a bitter coating, and secure packaging (only on select packs)
  • Color Alert technology dyes the mouth blue seconds after contact with saliva to indicate possible ingestion
  • Non-toxic bitter coating helps discourage ingestion, while the secure packaging is almost impossible to open without scissors
  • Performs in extreme temperatures from -22 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for dependable power, even in the toughest conditions
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CR2032 Key Fob Battery Replacement (2 Pack)
  • BROAD COMPATIBILITY ACROSS BRANDS - Compatible with all major car brands, fits with TOYOTA, VOLKSWAGEN, HONDA, CHEVY, BMW, HYUNDAI, KIA, FORD, LEXUS, JEEP, AND ALL OTHERS. Most of the car key fobs use this type of CR2032 batteries. Direct battery replacement for your key fob.
  • 2 PACK CR2032 Button Coin Cells - Each CR2032 key fob battery delivers consistent power in hot, cold, and high-usage conditions. Includes two high-quality, OEM-equivalent lithium batteries to power your smart remote key fob with dependable efficiency.
  • EASY DIY REPLACEMENT VIDEO - Comes with a detailed video guide, no programming required. Simply follow the instructions to replace the old battery and restore full key fob functionality in minutes.
  • CAR KEY FOB BATTERY BACKUP - Reliable & Durable Performance – Engineered for longevity, these batteries provide consistent power output, reducing the risk of fob malfunctions.
  • HIGH QUALITY BATTERIES - Our batteries are sourced from the same manufacturer as used by major car brands for their OEM key fobs. Ensuring maximum compatibility and performance for your remote. Keep a spare battery on hand for emergencies and avoid expensive dealership replacements with this affordable pack
Rank #3
CR2032 Key Fob Replacement Batteries, Universal Fit, Pack of 2
  • Avoid expensive dealer service charges and easily replace your key fob battery yourself
  • Easy guide to changing your key fob battery in the description
  • Only takes a few minutes; no programming required
  • Compatible with all vehicle key fobs that require CR2032 batteries
  • Includes (2) original premium Deluxe CR2032 3V batteries. Does not include actual key fob
Rank #2
Duracell 2032 Lithium Battery, 2 Count, AirTag & Key Fob, CR2032 3V Cell
  • COMPATIBLE WITH AIRTAG & KEY FOBS: Works with Apple AirTag, all major car key fobs (Toyota, Honda, BMW, Ford, Chevrolet, Lexus), fitness trackers, glucose monitors, tire pressure sensors, and any CR2032 / 3V lithium coin battery device.
  • CHILD SAFETY: BITTER TASTE ON BOTH SIDES TO HELP KEEP CHILDREN SAFE—Duracell CR2032 features a bitter taste coating applied to BOTH SIDES of the battery to help deter accidental ingestion by young children.
  • SUPERIOR LONGEVITY: Duracell Lasts Longer Than Energizer 3-In-1* | *Duracell 2032 size only. Based on ANSI Digital Household test vs. Energizer 2032 3-in-1.
  • QUALITY ASSURANCE: Every Duracell lithium coin battery is manufactured to precise specifications and guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship. Trusted in medical devices and safety applications.
  • FAMILY-SAFE PACKAGING: Duracell CR2032 batteries are sold in child-safe packaging—an additional layer of safety for households with young children.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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