Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Opening an Apple AirTag is simple when you know how the back cover locks into place. The polished stainless steel side twists off with light pressure, giving you access to the coin-cell battery inside. No special tools are needed, but a careful grip and the right technique help prevent scratches, slipping, or damage to the cover.
Before removing the battery, it helps to understand how the AirTag is assembled and what to avoid. The cover uses a press-and-turn motion, and the battery must be seated correctly for the AirTag to power on again. If you are replacing it, use the correct CR2032 battery and check that any bitter coating does not interfere with contact.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
This guide covers the safe way to open the AirTag, inspect or replace the battery, and lock the cover back into place. It also explains what to do if the cover feels stuck, how to avoid common mistakes, and the basic precautions that keep both the AirTag and battery contacts in good condition.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
What You Need Before Opening an AirTag
Opening an AirTag does not require a screwdriver, pry tool, or any special Apple service equipment. The stainless steel back cover is designed to twist off by hand so you can access the replaceable coin-cell battery. Before you start, set up a clean, dry workspace and gather a few basic items so the cover, battery, and small contact surfaces stay free from dirt, moisture, and accidental damage.
#1 Best Overall
- Plastic, Metal
- Imported
- IN THE BOX: 4-pack of CR2032 3 volt lithium coin cell batteries; replacement for BR2032, DL2032, and ECR2032
- DEVICE COMPATIBLE: Ideal for watches, calculators, key fobs, Apple TV remotes, and other small electronics
- EASY IDENTIFICATION: Engraved with battery model for quick identification
Items to have ready
- Your AirTag, removed from any key ring, loop, case, adhesive holder, or luggage tag accessory.
- A soft, lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to protect the polished stainless steel cover from scratches.
- Clean, dry hands for better grip and to avoid transferring oil or moisture inside the device.
- A CR2032 lithium 3V coin battery if you plan to replace the existing battery.
- A dry cotton swab if you need to gently remove dust around the battery compartment.
If you are replacing the battery, choose a standard CR2032 lithium 3V coin cell. Some CR2032 batteries are sold with a bitter coating to discourage children from swallowing them. That coating can sometimes prevent proper electrical contact inside an AirTag. If your AirTag does not power on after a replacement, check the battery packaging for any mention of a bitterant coating and try a compatible uncoated CR2032 battery from a reputable brand.
Before opening the AirTag, place it on the cloth with the white plastic side facing down and the stainless steel side facing up. This position gives you access to the removable cover while protecting the visible plastic surface from scuffs. Make sure the AirTag is completely dry, especially if it has recently been used on keys, bags, bikes, pet collars, or outdoor gear. The AirTag is splash, water, and dust resistant, but opening it exposes the battery compartment, so moisture should be kept away from the inside.
Precautions before you twist the cover
- Do not use a knife, screwdriver, or metal pry tool. These can bend the cover, scratch the finish, or damage the seal.
- Do not force the cover upward. The back cover unlocks by pressing down and rotating, not by prying.
- Keep the battery away from children and pets. Coin batteries are hazardous if swallowed.
- Work over a table, not over a sink or carpet. The battery can fall out once the cover is removed.
- Check the orientation before removal. The positive side of the battery faces up when installed correctly.
It also helps to inspect the AirTag before opening it. Look for dents in the stainless steel cover, sticky residue around the edge, or grit caught between the metal cover and the white shell. If the AirTag has been inside a tight third-party holder, remove the accessory first and wipe the outside lightly with the cloth. A clean surface gives your fingers better traction and reduces the chance of slipping while you press and turn the cover.
How to Remove the AirTag Back Cover
To open an AirTag, place it on a clean, flat surface with the polished stainless steel side facing up and the white plastic side facing down. The metal cover is the part that comes off; the white shell is not designed to be pried open. If the AirTag has been inside a key ring, luggage tag, pet holder, or adhesive mount, remove it from that accessory first so you can grip the cover evenly.
Press down on the stainless steel cover with two thumbs or the palm of your hand. While keeping steady downward pressure, rotate the cover counterclockwise. You only need to turn it a short distance, roughly a few millimeters, until it stops. The motion is similar to opening a child-resistant cap: push down first, then twist. Once the cover has rotated to the unlocked position, release the pressure and lift the metal cover away from the AirTag.
- Set the AirTag metal-side up on a soft cloth or non-slip mat to prevent scratches.
- Press firmly on the stainless steel cover using both thumbs for even pressure.
- Turn the cover counterclockwise while continuing to press down.
- Stop when the cover no longer turns; forcing it past that point can damage the tabs.
- Lift the cover straight off and set it aside with the inside facing up to keep it clean.
Inside, you will see the CR2032 coin-cell battery sitting in its compartment. If you are opening the AirTag only to inspect it, avoid touching the battery contacts unnecessarily. Oils, dust, or moisture on the contact points can interfere with power delivery. If you plan to replace the battery, the orientation before removing it: the positive side marked with a plus sign faces upward toward the stainless steel cover.
If the Cover Feels Stuck
If the back cover does not move, wipe the stainless steel surface with a dry microfiber cloth and try again. A slippery cover is one of the most common reasons people struggle to open an AirTag. You can also wear thin rubber-grip gloves or place a rubber jar-opener pad over the cover for better traction. Keep the pressure centered; pressing on one edge can make the cover bind instead of rotate.
Do not use a knife, screwdriver, razor blade, or metal pick to pry between the stainless steel cover and the white plastic body. The AirTag opens by twisting, not by levering the parts apart. Prying can bend the cover, mark the plastic rim, damage the sealing edge, or crack the internal clips. If the AirTag has dirt or residue around the seam, gently clean around the edge with a dry cloth before attempting the press-and-turn motion again.
How to Replace or Check the Battery
Once the stainless steel back cover is off, the AirTag battery is visible immediately. Apple AirTag uses a single CR2032 3V lithium coin battery. To remove it, lift the battery out gently with your finger. Avoid using a knife, screwdriver, or other sharp metal tool, as this can scratch the contacts or damage the plastic rim inside the AirTag.
Rank #2
- COMPATIBLE WITH AIRTAG & KEY FOBS: Works with Apple AirTag, all major car key fobs (Toyota, Honda, BMW, Ford, Chevrolet, Lexus), fitness trackers, glucose monitors, tire pressure sensors, and any CR2032 / 3V lithium coin battery device.
- CHILD SAFETY: BITTER TASTE ON BOTH SIDES TO HELP KEEP CHILDREN SAFE—Duracell CR2032 features a bitter taste coating applied to BOTH SIDES of the battery to help deter accidental ingestion by young children.
- SUPERIOR LONGEVITY: Duracell Lasts Longer Than Energizer 3-In-1* | *Duracell 2032 size only. Based on ANSI Digital Household test vs. Energizer 2032 3-in-1.
- QUALITY ASSURANCE: Every Duracell lithium coin battery is manufactured to precise specifications and guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship. Trusted in medical devices and safety applications.
- FAMILY-SAFE PACKAGING: Duracell CR2032 batteries are sold in child-safe packaging—an additional layer of safety for households with young children.
If you are only checking the battery, inspect both the battery and the battery compartment. The flat side of the battery marked with the + symbol should face upward when installed. Look for dust, residue, fingerprints, or corrosion on the battery surface and the metal contacts inside the AirTag. If the battery looks clean and the AirTag was working recently, you can reinstall the same battery to reseat it. If the AirTag has stopped responding, shows a low battery alert in the Find My app, or does not make a sound after reassembly, replace it with a fresh CR2032 cell.
Choosing the right replacement battery
Use a standard CR2032 lithium coin cell from a reliable brand. Some CR2032 batteries have a bitter-tasting child-safety coating. That coating can prevent proper contact in certain AirTags, causing the battery to seem dead even when it is new. If your AirTag does not power on with a coated battery, try a CR2032 without that coating, or gently wipe the battery surfaces with a clean, dry microfiber cloth before installing it.
- Battery type: CR2032 lithium coin battery, 3 volts.
- Orientation: positive + side facing up toward you.
- Handling: hold the battery by the edges to reduce fingerprints on the contact surfaces.
- Cleaning: use a dry lint-free cloth only; do not use liquid cleaners inside the AirTag.
To install the battery, place it into the circular battery compartment with the + side up. Press it down lightly so it sits flat and centered. A correctly seated battery should not wobble or sit at an angle. In many cases, the AirTag will play a short sound shortly after the battery makes contact. That sound indicates the battery is installed correctly and the AirTag has power.
If you do not hear a sound, do not assume the AirTag is broken right away. Remove the battery, check that the positive side is facing up, wipe the contact surfaces, and reinstall it. Try rotating the battery slightly while it is seated to improve contact. If you are using a brand-new battery and there is still no response, test another CR2032 battery if available. Also check the Find My app after reassembly, as the AirTag may reconnect after a short delay when it is near your iPhone.
Keep loose coin batteries away from children and pets during the replacement. CR2032 batteries are small enough to be swallowed and can cause serious injury. Dispose of the old battery according to your local battery recycling rules rather than placing it loose in household trash.
How to Close and Reassemble the AirTag
After checking or replacing the CR2032 battery, reassembling the AirTag is a simple press-and-turn process. Before closing it, make sure the battery is seated correctly with the positive side facing up. On most CR2032 batteries, the positive side is the flat face marked with a + symbol and the battery model number. If the battery is installed the wrong way, the AirTag will not power on and may appear to be faulty.
Recommended Free Tools
Place the stainless steel back cover over the AirTag so the three metal tabs on the cover line up with the three slots around the edge of the AirTag body. The cover should sit evenly on top, without rocking or sitting at an angle. If it feels uneven, lift it off and realign it rather than forcing it down. Once aligned, press the cover gently but firmly with two thumbs and rotate it clockwise until it stops. You should feel the cover lock into place.
Steps to reassemble the AirTag
- Confirm the CR2032 battery is clean, dry, and inserted with the positive side facing up.
- Check that no dust, lint, adhesive, or packaging film is sitting on the battery contacts.
- Position the stainless steel cover so its three tabs match the three openings on the AirTag.
- Press the cover down evenly with your thumbs.
- Turn the cover clockwise until it reaches the locked position.
- Listen for the AirTag sound, which may play after the battery makes contact.
If you replaced the battery, wait a few seconds after closing the AirTag. A working AirTag usually plays a short chime when the battery connects. If you do not hear a sound, open the cover again and check the battery orientation. Also inspect the battery itself: some CR2032 cells come with a bitter coating intended to discourage swallowing. Certain coated batteries may not make reliable contact inside an AirTag. If the AirTag remains silent, try a standard CR2032 battery from a reputable brand without a thick coating on the contact surface.
Rank #3
- COMPATIBLE WITH AIRTAG & KEY FOBS: Works with Apple AirTag, all major car key fobs (Toyota, Honda, BMW, Ford, Chevrolet, Lexus), fitness trackers, glucose monitors, tire pressure sensors, and any CR2032 / 3V lithium coin battery device.
- CHILD SAFETY: BITTER TASTE ON BOTH SIDES TO HELP KEEP CHILDREN SAFE—Duracell CR2032 features a bitter taste coating applied to BOTH SIDES of the battery to help deter accidental ingestion by young children.
- SUPERIOR LONGEVITY: Duracell Lasts Longer Than Energizer 3-In-1* | *Duracell 2032 size only. Based on ANSI Digital Household test vs. Energizer 2032 3-in-1.
- QUALITY ASSURANCE: Every Duracell lithium coin battery is manufactured to precise specifications and guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship. Trusted in medical devices and safety applications.
- FAMILY-SAFE PACKAGING: Duracell CR2032 batteries are sold in child-safe packaging—an additional layer of safety for households with young children.
Once the cover is locked, check that it is flush with the white plastic body all the way around. There should be no visible gap between the stainless steel back and the AirTag casing. A loose or partially locked cover can cause intermittent battery contact, which may make the AirTag stop responding in the Find My app. Avoid using pliers, screwdrivers, or metal tools to tighten the cover, as they can scratch the stainless steel or damage the tabs. Hand pressure is enough when the parts are aligned correctly.
After reassembly, open the Find My app on your iPhone and select the AirTag to confirm it is reachable. If it appears connected, you can play a sound to test it. If it still shows as not reachable, move the AirTag close to your iPhone, wait a moment, and try again. A newly replaced battery does not require pairing the AirTag from scratch; it should reconnect automatically as long as the battery is installed correctly and the AirTag is already linked to your Apple ID.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWhat to Do If the AirTag Won’t Open
If the AirTag’s stainless steel back cover will not turn, do not pry at the seam with a knife, screwdriver, or metal tool. The cover is designed to unlock with downward pressure and a short counterclockwise twist. When it feels stuck, the usual causes are slick fingers, not enough even pressure, debris around the edge, or a cover that has been overtightened after a previous battery change.
Try improving your grip first
Place the AirTag white-side down on a clean, flat surface, with the metal cover facing up. Press down on the cover with two thumbs and rotate it counterclockwise. If your fingers slide on the polished steel, use a dry microfiber cloth, a rubber jar opener, or a clean nitrile glove for extra traction. Keep the pressure centered; pressing only on one side can make the cover bind instead of releasing.
- Dry the AirTag: Wipe away moisture, lotion, or oil from the metal cover and your fingers.
- Use steady pressure: Push down firmly while turning, rather than twisting lightly from the edges.
- Turn the correct direction: To open, rotate the cover counterclockwise, as if loosening a bottle cap.
- Listen and feel: The cover should move a small distance, then lift off once the tabs line up.
Clean around the cover seam
If the AirTag has been on keys, in a pet collar, or inside a bag for a long time, grit can collect around the seam between the white shell and the stainless steel cover. Use a dry, soft-bristled brush or a clean microfiber cloth to clear the edge. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water, wipe the outer seam only, and dry the AirTag fully before trying again. Avoid soaking it or spraying cleaner into the seam, since liquid can reach the battery compartment once the cover loosens.
Check for accessory interference
Remove the AirTag from any holder, key ring case, adhesive mount, or protective cover before opening it. Some accessories clamp tightly around the metal back and prevent the cover from being pressed down far enough. If an adhesive mount is attached to the stainless steel side, carefully remove the mount according to the accessory maker’s instructions before attempting to twist the cover.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →| Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
| Cover spins slightly but does not lift | Rotate a little farther counterclockwise, then lift the cover straight up without tilting it. |
| Cover will not move at all | Use a rubber grip, press evenly with both thumbs, and try again on a stable surface. |
| AirTag is dirty or gritty | Brush the seam gently and wipe the exterior before opening. |
| Battery leaked or corrosion is visible | Stop handling the battery area and contact Apple Support or an authorized service provider. |
If the cover still will not open after several careful attempts, pause rather than forcing it. Excessive twisting can bend the cover tabs, scratch the finish, or crack the plastic shell. Apple Stores and authorized service providers can help open the AirTag safely, especially if there is damage, swelling, corrosion, or a battery that appears stuck. Once it is open, inspect the CR2032 battery and the contacts before reinstalling or replacing the cell, then close the cover by aligning the three tabs, pressing down, and turning clockwise until it stops.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Safety Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Opening an AirTag is simple, but the small parts and coin-cell battery deserve careful handling. Work on a clean, dry, flat surface with good lighting so the stainless steel cover and battery do not roll away. If the AirTag has been attached to keys, a pet collar, luggage, or a bike mount, remove it from the accessory first so you can grip the device evenly. Dry your hands before twisting the cover, and wipe away dirt or grit around the seam so debris does not scrape the plastic body while you press and rotate.
Rank #4
- 4 pack of Energizer 2032 Batteries, 3V Lithium Coin Batteries. Packaging may vary
- Featuring the world's first 3-in-1 Child Shield with three lines of defense: Color Alert, a bitter coating, and secure packaging (only on select packs)
- Color Alert technology dyes the mouth blue seconds after contact with saliva to indicate possible ingestion
- Non-toxic bitter coating helps discourage ingestion, while the secure packaging is almost impossible to open without scissors
- Performs in extreme temperatures from -22 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for dependable power, even in the toughest conditions
Precautions before handling the battery
- Keep the battery away from children and pets. AirTag uses a CR2032 coin-cell battery, which can cause serious harm if swallowed. Store new and used batteries somewhere secure immediately.
- Use the correct battery type. Replace only with a 3V CR2032 lithium coin battery. Some CR2032 batteries have a bitterant coating that may interfere with contact; if the AirTag does not power on, try an uncoated compatible battery.
- Check battery orientation. The positive side, marked with a plus symbol, should face up toward the stainless steel cover.
- Avoid touching both battery faces repeatedly. Oils from your fingers can leave residue on the contacts. Hold the battery by its edges when possible.
Do not use knives, screwdrivers, tweezers, or other sharp tools to pry the back cover off. The AirTag is designed to open by pressing down on the stainless steel cover and turning it counterclockwise. Prying can dent the cover, crack the white shell, damage the internal clips, or weaken the seal around the edge. If the cover feels stuck, improve your grip with a dry rubber glove, a silicone jar opener, or a clean microfiber cloth rather than applying force with a metal tool.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Turning the cover the wrong way: To open, press down and rotate counterclockwise. To close, align the tabs, press down, and rotate clockwise until it stops.
- Forcing the cover past its stop: Once the cover reaches the locked position, stop turning. Extra pressure can wear the locking tabs.
- Reassembling with misaligned tabs: The three tabs on the cover must sit in the matching slots. If the cover rocks or will not turn smoothly, lift it off and align it again.
- Ignoring the confirmation sound: After inserting a working battery, the AirTag should play a short chime. If it stays silent, recheck the battery type, orientation, and contacts.
- Mixing old and new batteries: Dispose of the old cell promptly and keep it separate from fresh batteries to avoid reinstalling a depleted one by accident.
Keep liquids away while the AirTag is open. Although AirTag has water and dust resistance when assembled, that protection is reduced once the cover is removed. Do not clean the inside with sprays, alcohol, or water. If you see light dust, use a dry, lint-free cloth around the battery compartment and avoid pressing on the internal contact points. If the AirTag has been exposed to salt water, mud, or heavy moisture, let the exterior dry completely before opening it, and do not reinstall the battery until the compartment is clean and dry.
After closing the AirTag, inspect the seam around the stainless steel cover. It should sit evenly with no gap, wobble, or raised edge. Open the Find My app to confirm the AirTag appears and responds as expected. If the cover will not lock, the battery feels loose, or the AirTag repeatedly loses power, stop using it and check for bent contacts, debris in the tabs, or a damaged cover before attaching it back to valuable items.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I open an AirTag without scratching it?
Place the AirTag on a soft cloth with the stainless steel side facing up, then press down with two thumbs and rotate the cover counterclockwise. Avoid using knives, screwdrivers, or metal tools, as they can scratch the cover or damage the plastic rim. If your fingers slip, use a rubber glove or a dry silicone grip pad for better traction.
What battery does an AirTag use?
An AirTag uses a CR2032 3V lithium coin battery. Apple recommends using a CR2032 battery without a bitterant coating, because some coated batteries may not make proper contact inside the AirTag. After inserting the battery with the positive side facing up, you should hear a sound if the battery is seated correctly.
What should I do if the AirTag back cover will not turn?
Make sure you are pressing down firmly while turning the stainless steel cover counterclockwise. Wipe the cover and your hands to remove oil or moisture, then try again using a rubber jar opener or grippy cloth. Do not pry the cover open, because the tabs can bend or break.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
How do I know the AirTag is closed correctly after replacing the battery?
Line up the three tabs on the stainless steel cover with the three slots in the AirTag body. Press down and rotate the cover clockwise until it stops. If the cover sits flat and does not rattle or lift at the edges, it is properly locked in place.
Can opening an AirTag damage it or affect water resistance?
Opening an AirTag normally for battery replacement should not damage it if you only twist the back cover by hand. However, dirt, a misaligned cover, or a damaged seal can reduce its resistance to splashes and dust. Before closing it, check that the battery compartment is clean and the cover is seated evenly.
Bottom Line
Opening an AirTag is simple once you know the motion: press down on the stainless steel back cover, twist it counterclockwise, then lift it off. If you’re replacing the battery, use a compatible CR2032 coin cell, avoid bitter-coated batteries when possible, and make sure the positive side faces up.
Before closing it, check that the battery is seated flat and the cover tabs are aligned, then press down and twist clockwise until it locks. If anything feels stuck, slippery, or misaligned, stop and reset your grip rather than forcing the cover.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
