Before you start: you'll need a CR2032 battery
To change LiftMaster remote battery, you'll need a replacement CR2032 3V coin cell, which is the standard for most LiftMaster remotes including the 371LM, 373LM, 893MAX, 891LM, 893LM, 953EV, and 953ESTD models. You'll also want a small flathead screwdriver, a coin, or the remote's visor clip to help pry the case open. These tools are all you need to complete the job in under a minute, and having them ready before you start makes the process smooth and frustration-free.
How to change your Liftmaster remote battery
Begin by holding the remote with the buttons facing down so you can see the seam along the back edge. For many models, including 893MAX, 891LM, 893LM, 953EV, 953EV-P2, 953EVC, 953EVC-P2, and 953ESTD, pry the case open first in the middle, then at each side. Insert your chosen tool (the visor clip, flathead screwdriver, or coin) into the small notch or gap in the middle of the case, then gently pry upward to pop that section loose. Once the middle releases, work your way to each side, prying carefully until the entire back cover separates from the front, avoid forcing it all at once, as that can crack the plastic.
- With the case open, locate the old CR2032 battery in its compartment and carefully lift it out, using your fingernail or the flathead screwdriver if it's snug.
- Take your new 3V CR2032 coin cell and place it into the compartment with the positive (+) side facing up, you'll see a plus sign stamped on the battery that should match the marking inside the remote.
- Press the battery down gently until it sits flush and doesn't wiggle.
- Align the front and back halves of the remote, starting at the top or hinge end, and press firmly around the edges until you hear or feel the case snap shut.
After snapping the case closed, test the remote by pressing any button while pointing it at your garage door opener. If the LED on the remote lights up and the door responds, you're done, if not, move on to the troubleshooting section below.
Special case: changing the battery in a KLIK1U remote
The KLIK1U remote works a bit differently, instead of prying the case open, you'll slide the lower cover down. Hold the remote with the buttons facing you, place your thumb on the ridged section below the buttons, and push downward (away from the buttons) until the cover slides off. This reveals the battery compartment, where you can remove the old CR2032 and insert the new one with the positive (+) side facing up, then slide the cover back into place until it clicks.
Troubleshooting after a battery change
If your remote still doesn't work after replacing the battery, the first thing to check is the battery orientation, remove the battery and confirm the positive (+) side is indeed facing up as it should be. Next, inspect the metal contacts inside the battery compartment; if they look tarnished or dirty, wipe them gently with a dry cloth or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, then let them dry completely before reinserting the battery. You can reset the remote by removing the battery, pressing and holding any button for about 10 seconds, then reinserting the battery to recalibrate and resolve software glitches. Test the battery voltage with a multimeter before inserting it, as a new battery may be faulty or have a low charge. Check for interference from nearby electronic devices, fluorescent lights, or metal structures if the remote still doesn't work. These two checks resolve the vast majority of post-replacement issues, so only consider other factors like interference or a faulty new battery if the problem persists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a LiftMaster remote battery last?
Most CR2032 batteries in LiftMaster remotes last between one and two years with normal use. Heavy daily operation or extreme temperatures can shorten that lifespan, so it's a good idea to keep a spare battery on hand.
What are the signs that my LiftMaster remote battery is dying?
The door may also respond sluggishly or only work intermittently.
Can I use any brand of CR2032 battery in my LiftMaster remote?
Yes, any brand of CR2032 3V lithium coin cell will work as long as it's the correct size and voltage. Just avoid rechargeable CR2032 batteries, as they typically deliver a lower voltage (around 3.0V vs. 3.7V for some rechargeable chemistries) and may cause performance issues.
Do I need to reprogram my LiftMaster remote after changing the battery?
Your remote should work with your garage door opener immediately after the new battery is installed.
For the wider topic, see replacing watch and device batteries.
