You can get a car alarm battery at several common places. The most straightforward options are auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, or O'Reilly Auto Parts, where staff can often help you identify the correct battery. Large big-box retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Best Buy also have extensive electronics battery sections. For the widest selection and specific models, online marketplaces like Amazon are excellent. Finally, you can try office supply stores (e.g., Staples) or major drugstores (e.g., CVS, Walgreens).
The key is knowing exactly what battery you need before you go shopping. Most car alarm remotes, or fobs, use small, flat coin-cell batteries. The specific type is usually printed on the old battery itself, which looks like a small, metallic disc. Common model numbers include CR2032, CR2025, and CR2016. The number indicates the size and voltage. You can also check your vehicle's owner's manual for the correct specification.
If you're unsure, the best practice is to remove the old battery first and bring it with you to the store to match it exactly. To open the fob, look for a small seam and use a flathead screwdriver or a coin to twist it open carefully. Once you have the new battery, ensure the positive (+) side is facing up when you insert it, as indicated in the fob's compartment.
| Common Car Alarm Battery Types & Retail Availability | | | |
|---|
| Battery Model | Typical Price Range | Auto Parts Store | Walmart/Target |
| CR2032 | $3 - $8 for a 2-pack | Almost Always In Stock | Almost Always In Stock |
| CR2025 | $4 - $10 for a 2-pack | Usually In Stock | Usually In Stock |
| CR1632 | $5 - $12 for a single | Often In Stock | Less Common |
| CR2016 | $4 - $9 for a 2-pack | Usually In Stock | Usually In Stock |
