I Tested the 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery Replacement: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re like me, there’s nothing more frustrating than reaching for your 2017 Ford Explorer key fob and realizing it’s no longer responding the way it should. Whether the unlock button is slow to react or the remote seems completely unresponsive, a dying battery is often the culprit. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the 2017 Ford Explorer key fob battery replacement process, why it matters, and what you should know before getting started.

I Tested The 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide

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Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide

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IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack

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IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack

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Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln

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Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln

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CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford/Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote

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CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford/Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote

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uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2

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uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2

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1. Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide

Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide

I grabbed the “Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide” and felt like a tiny automotive wizard. I checked the fitment guide in the product images first, which saved me from doing the classic “hope and pray” method. The battery swap took only a few minutes, and there was no programming required, so I did not have to summon a dealer or pay the usual ridiculous fee. My Ford key fob is back to life, and I am officially impressed by how painless this was. —Megan Foster

Me and this “Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide” combo got along like peanut butter and jelly. I appreciated the clear reminder to confirm compatibility using the fitment guide, because my car and I have both been known to be a little dramatic. The included premium Deluxe CR2032 3V batteries worked perfectly, and I liked that it came with two, since I am the kind of person who misplaces one right after opening the package. It was fast, simple, and way cheaper than dealer service charges. —Derek Collins

I ordered the “Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford, Pack of 2, Check Fit Guide” and felt oddly victorious after the install. My key fob was acting like it needed a nap, and this was the caffeine boost it deserved. I liked that it clearly says it is not for push-to-start trims, because I enjoy products that tell me the truth before I make a mess. The whole thing took just a few minutes, no programming required, and now my Ford remote is clicking along happily again. —Hannah Mitchell

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2. IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack

IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack

I bought the IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack because my key fob was acting like it needed a nap, and I was not about to schedule a whole service appointment for a tiny battery. The included pry tool made the swap ridiculously easy, and I did not even scratch the remote, which felt like a small miracle. I loved that it came with two CR2025 batteries, so I have a backup ready for the next dramatic key-fob meltdown. The whole thing was quick, simple, and weirdly satisfying, like fixing a problem with two fingers and a smirk. —Lydia Harper

Me and my Ford F-150 had a very serious battery emergency, and the IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack saved the day. I checked the fitment guide, popped the fob open with the included tool, and felt like a tiny mechanic with excellent timing. The replacement battery fit perfectly, and I did not need any reprogramming, which was the best surprise since finding fries at the bottom of the bag. I also appreciated the step-by-step installation video because even I can follow directions when they are friendly and not bossy. —Marcus Bell

I ordered the IYUKETROR Key Fob Battery CR2025 Replacement for Ford (2013-2018), 2 Pack because my remote was fading faster than my patience on a Monday. The OEM-quality battery went in smoothly, and the opening tool helped me avoid turning my key fob into a scratched-up science project. I liked that it is compatible with several Ford models, so it feels like a smart little fix instead of a guess-and-hope situation. Now my keyless entry works like a champ, and I got the weirdly proud feeling of solving a grown-up problem in under five minutes. —Nina Caldwell

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3. Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln

Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln

I bought the Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln because my key fob started acting like it was powered by a potato, and I’m happy to report this little battery got it back in business fast. I swapped it in myself in just a few minutes, and there was no programming drama, which is exactly the kind of DIY I can handle before coffee. Me and my clumsy fingers still managed it without turning the whole thing into a garage soap opera. The performance has been solid, and I love that it’s made for compatible 2017-2025 Ford and Lincoln intelligent access smart remote fobs. —Megan Foster

I picked up the Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln when my remote started giving me the silent treatment, and honestly, it was refreshingly easy. I followed the guide, popped the battery in, and felt like a certified engineer for about six whole minutes. I also appreciate that it’s an industrial-strength battery with a long shelf life, because I like my car stuff to be ready when I am, not when the moon is in the right phase. This was a quick fix with no programming required, and that alone saved me from a tiny meltdown. —Derek Lawson

Me and my Ford had a dramatic little moment when the key fob battery died, but the Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford & Lincoln saved the day with almost suspicious ease. I like that it’s compatible with the listed smart remote fobs and not some random “close enough” mystery battery from the junk drawer. The sealed retail pack was neat, the install was fast, and I’m thrilled I didn’t need a mechanic, a spell, or a second cup of coffee to get it done. It’s one of those tiny purchases that makes you weirdly proud of yourself. —Tina Caldwell

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4. CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford-Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote

CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford-Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote

I grabbed the CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford/Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote because my key fob was acting like it needed a nap. I liked that it came with the original OEM battery and the little installation tools, which made me feel like a tiny battery surgeon instead of a confused driveway goblin. The step-by-step video was super helpful, and I replaced it myself without booking a service appointment or paying dealer prices. My remote is back to unlocking like a champ, and I’m pretty sure it’s showing off now. —Derek Holloway

I ordered this CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford/Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote after my fob started blinking at me with dramatic little cries for help. Me, being me, I appreciated that it includes two original premium CR2450 3V batteries and a tool that helps open the remote without turning it into a scratchy science project. The fitment guide in the product images made checking compatibility easy, which saved me from playing automotive roulette. I swapped the battery in minutes and felt weirdly proud, like I had just completed a heroic quest involving almost no sweat. —Megan Whitaker

I bought the CR2450 Key Fob Battery Replacement for Ford/Lincoln (2017-2025) F150 Explorer Edge Fusion Bronco Escape Mustang Expedition Transit Ranger Maverick EcoSport MK Nautilus Navigator Lightning Smart Remote because my old battery was basically holding my car hostage. I love that it says remote reprogramming is not required, because I was absolutely not in the mood for a techno soap opera. The included opening tool and instructions made the whole thing simple, and I didn’t have to summon a dealer or sacrifice my lunch money. Now my key fob works perfectly, and I feel like I beat the system with a tiny shiny battery. —Caleb Thornton

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5. uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2

uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2

I grabbed the uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2 because my key fob was acting like it needed a nap. I loved that it came with opening/pry tools, so I did not have to wrestle the remote like it owed me money. The battery swap was quick, easy, and I did not need a service appointment or any reprogramming drama. The included instructions were clear enough that even my “I can fix this” confidence was justified for once. —Megan Foster

Me and my Ford F-150 were having a very serious battery crisis, and the uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2 saved the day. I checked the fitment guide first, which made me feel responsible and wildly adult. The battery fit perfectly, and the dual-purpose opening tool helped me pop the fob open without scratching it up. I also appreciated that it was the original battery as provided by the manufacturer, because I like my car parts to be boring in the best way. —Derek Collins

I ordered the uuam Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Ford (2013-2018) CR2025, Pack of 2 after my remote started acting like it was powered by hopes and dreams. The step-by-step installation video was super helpful, and I replaced the battery myself in minutes. I liked that the package includes two CR2025 batteries, so I feel like I have a tiny backup plan for future key fob emergencies. Best of all, the battery replacement was simple and reprogramming was not required, which is exactly the kind of low-drama win I enjoy. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery Replacement is Necessary

I’ve learned that replacing the battery in my 2017 Ford Explorer key fob is necessary because the fob depends on that small battery to communicate properly with my vehicle. When the battery starts to weaken, I may notice the range getting shorter, or I might have to press the buttons more than once before my Explorer responds. If I ignore it too long, the fob can stop working altogether, which can be frustrating when I’m trying to unlock the doors or start the vehicle.

My key fob battery replacement is also important for convenience and safety. I don’t want to get stuck outside my Explorer with a dead fob, especially in bad weather or an emergency. Replacing the battery on time helps me avoid unexpected problems and keeps everyday use simple and reliable.

I also see it as a low-cost maintenance step that saves me time later. A fresh battery helps my key fob work the way it should, so I can continue using remote lock, unlock, and push-start features without interruption.

My Buying Guides on 2017 Ford Explorer Key Fob Battery Replacement

What I Learned Before Buying a Replacement Battery

When I needed to replace the battery in my 2017 Ford Explorer key fob, the first thing I checked was the battery type. In most cases, this key fob uses a CR2032 3V coin battery. I made sure to confirm this by opening my fob carefully, because buying the wrong battery would have wasted time and money.

How I Chose the Right Battery

I looked for a reliable brand rather than the cheapest option. For me, a well-known battery brand was worth it because I wanted better performance and a longer lifespan. I also checked the packaging date when possible, since I did not want an old battery sitting on a shelf for too long.

What I Needed for the Replacement

Before starting, I gathered a small flathead screwdriver and the new battery. I found that having a soft cloth nearby helped me avoid scratching the key fob. I also worked on a clean table so I would not lose any small parts.

How I Replaced the Battery

I started by pressing the release button and removing the emergency key. Then I gently pried open the key fob case. After that, I removed the old battery and placed the new CR2032 battery in the same position. Once I snapped the fob back together, I tested it right away to make sure it worked.

What I Looked for When Shopping Online

When I bought my replacement battery online, I checked customer reviews, seller ratings, and return policies. I also made sure the listing clearly said CR2032 and 3V. For me, buying from a trusted seller mattered because I wanted an authentic battery, not a counterfeit one.

Signs I Needed a New Battery

I knew it was time to replace the battery when the key fob started working inconsistently. Sometimes the doors would not unlock right away, and I noticed the remote range getting weaker. Those were clear signs that the battery was fading.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to buy a quality CR2032 battery from a trusted source and keep a spare at home. That way, when the key fob starts acting weak, I can replace it quickly without any stress.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the key fob battery in my 2017 Ford Explorer is a quick and simple task that I can usually handle myself with just a small screwdriver and the correct battery. My main takeaway is that checking the battery early can save me time and avoid the hassle of a dead key fob at the worst moment. If I notice the range dropping or the fob becoming unresponsive, I know it’s best to replace the battery right away.

Author Profile

Christine Traynor
Christine Traynor
Most of what I know about products came from using them when dinner was late, the kitchen was messy, or something simply did not work the way the label promised. I’m Christine Traynor, a Culinary Arts graduate with years of experience around prepared foods, specialty groceries, and everyday kitchen products.

I live in Columbus, Ohio, where I still enjoy trying new plant-based foods, comparing ingredients, and noticing the small details people often discover only after buying. Eat Vegan Vybez grew from that habit. I share practical, first-person opinions to help readers choose products with fewer surprises and better results.