Unbelievable Tips: How to Replace Garmin Forerunner 235 Battery Yourself

The Garmin Forerunner 235 is a popular running watch known for its GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and long battery life. However, like all electronics, its battery will eventually need replacing. If you’re noticing your Forerunner 235’s battery life dwindling faster than usual, it’s time to consider a battery replacement. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your Garmin Forerunner 235 battery, ensuring you can get back to tracking your runs with ease.

Why Your Forerunner 235 Battery Might Need Replacing

Before diving into the replacement process, let’s understand why your Forerunner 235’s battery might need replacing. Here are some telltale signs:

• Reduced Battery Life: The most obvious indicator is a noticeable decrease in battery life. If your watch is struggling to last a full day, even with minimal use, a battery replacement might be necessary.
• Slow Charging: If your Forerunner 235 takes longer than usual to charge, it could be a sign of a failing battery.
• Sudden Shutdowns: If your watch suddenly shuts down even when it has a decent battery charge remaining, a faulty battery could be the culprit.
• Swollen Battery: In rare cases, the battery might swell, causing the watch to bulge. This is a serious issue and requires immediate replacement.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

• New Garmin Forerunner 235 Battery: Order a genuine Garmin battery from a reputable source. Using a non-genuine battery could damage your watch.
• Small Phillips Screwdriver: This will be used to open the watch case.
• Spudger or Plastic Opening Tool: This will help you pry open the watch case without damaging it.
• Tweezers: These will help you remove the old battery.
• Anti-Static Wrist Strap (Optional): This helps prevent static discharge, which can potentially damage the watch’s electronics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Battery

Now, let’s go through the process of replacing the Garmin Forerunner 235 battery:
1. Power Off Your Watch: Begin by powering off your Forerunner 235 to prevent any accidental damage during the process.
2. Remove the Back Cover: Locate the screws holding the back cover of the watch. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to carefully remove these screws. Once removed, you can gently pry open the back cover using a spudger or plastic opening tool. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as this could damage the watch case.
3. Disconnect the Battery Connector: Inside the watch case, you’ll find the battery connected to the motherboard via a small connector. Using your fingers, gently disconnect this connector.
4. Remove the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old battery from its housing. Use tweezers to help you if needed.
5. Insert the New Battery: Align the new battery correctly in the housing, ensuring the positive and negative terminals are facing the right way. Gently press the battery into place.
6. Reconnect the Battery Connector: Carefully reconnect the battery connector to the motherboard. Ensure it’s securely connected.
7. Reassemble the Watch: Place the back cover back onto the watch and secure it with the screws you removed earlier. Make sure all screws are tightened properly.
8. Power On Your Watch: Turn on your Forerunner 235 and ensure it’s functioning correctly.

Tips for a Smooth Battery Replacement

Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth battery replacement:

• Work in a Clean Environment: Work on a clean, dust-free surface to prevent any debris from getting inside your watch.
• Be Gentle: Always handle your watch with care and avoid excessive force when opening or closing the case.
• Use Genuine Parts: Only use genuine Garmin batteries to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Check for Damage: Inspect the watch for any signs of damage before reassembling it.

Understanding Battery Life and Care

Once you’ve replaced your battery, it’s important to understand how to maximize its lifespan and ensure optimal performance:

• Charge Regularly: Don’t let the battery completely drain before charging. Aim for regular charging cycles to maintain battery health.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to extreme heat or cold can affect battery performance. Store your watch in a cool, dry place.
• Use the Correct Charger: Always use the original Garmin charger or a compatible charger to prevent damage.
• Turn Off Features When Not Needed: Features like GPS and Bluetooth consume battery power. Turn them off when not in use to conserve battery life.

Beyond Battery Replacement: Other Forerunner 235 Maintenance Tips

While battery replacement is essential, other maintenance tips can help keep your Forerunner 235 in top condition:

• Clean Your Watch Regularly: Wipe down your watch with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and grime.
• Avoid Water Damage: While the Forerunner 235 is water-resistant, avoid exposing it to extreme water pressure or submerging it for prolonged periods.
• Update the Firmware: Regularly check for firmware updates, as they often include bug fixes and performance enhancements.

Time for a Fresh Start: Your Forerunner 235 is Ready to Go

By following these steps, you’ve successfully replaced your Garmin Forerunner 235 battery and breathed new life into your trusty running companion. Remember to follow the battery care tips to maximize its lifespan, and enjoy tracking your runs with renewed confidence!

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How often should I replace my Forerunner 235 battery?
A: The battery life of a Garmin Forerunner 235 typically lasts 1-2 years, depending on usage patterns.
Q: Can I replace the battery myself, or should I take it to a repair shop?
A: You can replace the battery yourself if you feel comfortable following the instructions carefully. However, if you’re unsure or lack experience with electronics repair, it’s best to take it to a certified repair shop.
Q: What happens if I use a non-genuine battery?
A: Using a non-genuine battery can damage your watch, potentially leading to performance issues, safety hazards, or even voiding your warranty.
Q: Can I use my Forerunner 235 while the battery is being replaced?
A: No, you should power off the watch and disconnect it from any power sources before attempting to replace the battery.
Q: Is it safe to dispose of the old battery myself?
A: No, old lithium-ion batteries should not be disposed of in regular trash. Check with your local recycling center or electronics retailer for proper disposal instructions.