Replace the Key Fob Battery

Last updated: June 6, 2026

If your Skoda Kodiaq Mk1 (NS, 2016–2024) key has gone weak — short range, or keyless start (KESSY) asking you to hold the key to the button — it almost always just needs a fresh coin cell. The Kodiaq key takes a single CR2032.

Battery You Need

A single CR2032 3 V coin cell — the standard VW-group key battery.

How to Replace the Key Battery

1. Slide out the metal key blade using the release catch.
2. Remove the cover — slide the rear cover off (or prise the case apart at the blade slot).
3. Lift out the old CR2032, noting which way up it sits.
4. Fit the new cell the same way up, avoiding the flat faces.
5. Refit the cover and slide the blade home.

Lock and unlock from a few metres to confirm.

If It Still Won’t Work

• Start the car anyway — hold the key against the start button as you press; the car reads the transponder directly.
• Lock manually with the emergency blade in the driver’s door (behind a small cap).

Frequently Asked Questions

What battery does the Skoda Kodiaq key take?

A single CR2032 3 V coin cell.

Do I need to reprogram the key after changing the battery?

No — it pairs again as soon as power is restored.

How do I open the Kodiaq key?

Slide out the metal blade, then slide off the cover / split the case to reach the cell.

My key still won’t start the car — what now?

Hold the key against the start button as you press it.

For a no-start with a warning light, check the code on autodtcs.com. See also our Kodiaq battery guide if the car is dead.