Is your Toyota Camry key fob not working as reliably as it used to? You might be facing a common issue: a dead or dying key fob battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Camry key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service. This guide will walk you through each step to quickly and efficiently replace your Camry Key Fob Battery.
Before we begin, it’s worth noting that many modern car key fobs, especially smart keys like those in Toyota Camrys, are susceptible to battery drain if kept too close to electronic devices. As Toyota service bulletins have indicated, devices emitting electronic “pings” can cause your smart key to constantly “wake up,” leading to reduced battery life. Cell phones, laptops, TVs, and other common electronics can contribute to this. While convenient, keeping your Camry key fob next to these devices might mean you need to replace the battery sooner than expected.
This guide is primarily for owners of 2007 Toyota Camry models, but the general process should be similar for a range of Camry years and potentially other Toyota models. However, always consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate information for your specific vehicle. Typically, your Camry will give you a warning on the dashboard display when the key fob battery is low, giving you a heads-up before it completely dies.
Let’s get started on replacing your Camry key fob battery. The only tool you’ll need is the mechanical key that’s already conveniently stored inside your smart key fob.
- Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small latch on the side of your Camry key fob. Press and hold this latch while gently pulling out the mechanical key. This key is designed to be used as a tool for opening the fob casing, as well as a backup to manually unlock your car door if needed.
- Pry Open the Key Fob Casing
Now, look at the slot where you just removed the mechanical key. You’ll see a narrow opening perpendicular to this slot. Insert the thinned end of the mechanical key into this narrow slot.
Gently twist the mechanical key. This will apply leverage and pop open the two halves of the Camry key fob casing. You might hear a small click as the case separates.
- Access the Circuit Board and Battery
Once the fob is open, you’ll see the circuit board. The battery is located on the underside of this board. The circuit board is typically held in place by a light adhesive or small clips, so it won’t simply fall out. Carefully slip the end of the mechanical key under the edge of the circuit board.
Gently lever the circuit board upwards to lift it out of its compartment and expose the Camry key fob battery.
- Replace the Old Battery with a New CR1632 Battery
The battery is held in place by small metal legs or clips. Carefully spring these legs open one at a time to release the old battery. Take note of the battery orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
The Camry key fob battery type is a CR1632. You can find these batteries at most drug stores, electronics stores, and online retailers. Install the new CR1632 battery, ensuring it’s placed in the correct orientation as the old one. The small metal legs will snap back to hold the new battery in place.
- Reassemble the Key Fob
Place the circuit board back into its compartment, ensuring it sits flush. Then, carefully snap the two halves of the Camry key fob casing back together. You might need to apply a bit of pressure to ensure they are fully closed and secure.
Once reassembled, your Camry key fob should be working perfectly with its new battery. Test the key fob functions to ensure everything is operating as expected.
Important Considerations:
- Battery Type: Always use the correct CR1632 battery type for your Camry key fob. Using a different type might cause damage or malfunction.
- Battery Availability: While CR1632 batteries are becoming more common, it’s always a good idea to have a spare on hand, or know where to purchase one locally before you start the replacement process.
- Low Battery Warning: Pay attention to the low battery warning on your Camry’s dashboard. This is your signal to replace the key fob battery soon to avoid being stranded.
- Emergency Start: As a helpful backup, even with a completely dead key fob battery, you can still start your Camry. In an emergency, place the back side of your key fob (the side with the Toyota logo) directly against the “Start” button on your dashboard. This will allow the car to detect the key and start the engine.
Replacing your Camry key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective DIY task. By following these steps, you can quickly restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary trips to the dealership. Enjoy the renewed convenience of your reliably working Camry smart key!
