Replace the Key Fob Battery

If the remote on your Suzuki Vitara Mk4 (LY, 2015–2024) has become weak — you have to stand close to lock or unlock, or a low-battery warning has appeared — the fob’s coin cell needs replacing. The Vitara came with two key styles depending on trim, taking either a CR2032 (keyless smart key) or a CR1616 (flip key). This guide covers both. It is a couple of minutes’ work with a small screwdriver.

Which Key Do You Have?

• Type 1 — keyless smart key: a rectangular fob with a pull-out emergency blade, push-button start cars. Takes a CR2032.
• Type 2 — flip/blade key: the blade folds out, held together by a small screw. Takes a CR1616.

Type 1 — Smart Key (CR2032)

1. Slide out the emergency key blade using its release catch.
2. Insert a small screwdriver into the slot and gently remove the button-cell cover.
3. Lift the transmitter out of its holder, then remove the old CR2032 cell — note its orientation.
4. Fit the new cell observing the correct polarity (positive side as the old one).
5. Refit the transmitter and the cover, then slide the blade back in.
6. Check the remote locks and unlocks the car.

Type 2 — Flip Key (CR1616)

1. Remove the small screw in the key body.
2. Remove the key cover and lift the transmitter out of its holder.
3. Separate the two halves of the case and remove the old CR1616 cell.
4. Fit the new cell the same way round, then refit the cases, transmitter, cover and screw.
5. Check the remote locks and unlocks the car.

Does It Need Programming?

No — replacing the coin cell does not affect the fob’s pairing, so the key keeps working immediately. Programming a brand-new or additional key is a separate job (the Vitara allows up to 4 keys) and needs Suzuki’s diagnostic equipment at a dealer or auto locksmith — note that adding keys can erase older codes if the limit is exceeded.

Frequently Asked Questions

What battery does the Vitara key take?

The keyless smart key uses a CR2032; the folding flip key uses a smaller CR1616. Check which style you have before buying.

Will the car still start if the smart-key battery dies?

Yes. With keyless start, hold the fob against the start button (Suzuki marks the spot) to start using the backup transponder. The emergency blade in the fob unlocks the door.

My remote still won’t work with a fresh cell — now what?

Re-open it and check the cell orientation and that the contacts are clean. If it’s still dead, the fob may have an internal fault and need replacing and programming by a dealer or locksmith.

Can I program a spare key myself?

No — key programming on the Vitara needs the dealer diagnostic tool. Only the battery swap is owner-doable.

To clear a service reminder after maintenance, see our Suzuki Vitara service indicator reset guide. For warning lights, look up the code on autodtcs.com.