1. Why it won’t budge
A leaking battery leaves a crust that glues the cell to the holder, and a bent clip can grip it like a vice. The usual cause is a cell left in a device for years.
2. Don’t lever it out with a screwdriver
A flat blade can punch through the cell or short it against the contacts. A punctured battery can heat up sharply, and a short can damage the holder.
3. Use a non-conductive tool
A plastic pry tool, a guitar pick or a wooden cocktail stick is enough to lift a coin cell out. A tool that won’t conduct electricity means a slip can’t short the battery.
4. Let it come up to room temperature
A holder that has been in a cold place grips tighter than it needs to, so bring the device up to room temperature first and the cell will lift more easily. Warm it in your hands, not over a radiator, and never use heat to free a cell.
5. Replace the holder if you have to
If the cell won’t come out and the holder is already corroded, replacing the holder is cheaper than fighting it. Many cheap devices have a holder that clips straight into the board.