Is your Toyota Corolla key fob not working as reliably as it used to? You might be facing the common issue of a dying key fob battery. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your Toyota Corolla key fob is a straightforward process that you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can get your key fob back in top shape quickly and efficiently.
Knowing how to replace your key fob battery can save you time and money compared to visiting a dealership for a simple battery change. Let’s dive into the simple steps to get your Toyota Corolla key fob working like new again.
Simple Steps to Replace Your Toyota Corolla Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. For most Toyota Corolla key fobs, you’ll only need a small flathead screwdriver and a new CR2032 3V battery. These batteries are widely available at most electronic stores and online retailers.
Here’s how to replace the battery in your Toyota Corolla key fob:
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Remove the Mechanical Key: Locate the small button on your key fob, usually a metallic release button positioned near the key ring. Press and hold this button while gently pulling out the mechanical key from the fob. This key is a backup to manually unlock your car door.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Once the mechanical key is removed, you’ll see a small slot where the key was housed. Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into this slot. Gently twist the screwdriver to carefully pry open the key fob casing. The case is usually snapped together, so apply gentle but firm pressure to separate the two halves.
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Access the Battery: After opening the fob, you will see the internal components, including a green circuit board. Carefully lift or maneuver the circuit board to reveal the battery compartment underneath. In some models, the battery might be directly visible once opened, depending on the design of your Corolla key fob.
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Remove and Replace the Old Battery: Take note of the orientation of the old battery before removing it. Gently pry out the old battery, typically a CR2032 3V button cell battery. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction, which is usually upwards. Refer to the markings in the battery compartment if you are unsure about the correct polarity.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully place the circuit board back into its position within the fob casing. Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Ensure the casing is securely closed without any gaps. Finally, slide the mechanical key back into the key fob until it clicks into its locked position.
After reassembly, test your Toyota Corolla key fob to ensure it is working correctly. Try locking and unlocking your car remotely and starting your vehicle if your fob has that functionality. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully replaced your Toyota Corolla key fob battery!
When Might You Need a Full Toyota Corolla Key Fob Replacement?
While battery replacement solves most common key fob issues, there are situations where you might need a complete Toyota Corolla key fob replacement.
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Lost or Irreparably Damaged Fob: If you’ve lost your key fob or it has been severely damaged – for example, by being run over or heavily water damaged – a replacement is necessary.
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Malfunctioning After Battery Change: If you’ve replaced the battery and your Toyota Corolla key fob still isn’t functioning correctly, there might be an issue with the fob itself. Internal damage or wear over time can lead to malfunctions that a simple battery change won’t fix.
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Button Damage or Wear: If the buttons on your key fob are worn out, unresponsive, or physically damaged, replacing the entire fob might be a more practical solution than attempting to repair individual buttons.
In these cases, contacting a Toyota dealership, like Chicago Northside Toyota (if you are in the Chicago area), or your local reputable Toyota service center is the best course of action. They can provide you with a genuine Toyota Corolla key fob replacement and handle the necessary programming to ensure it works seamlessly with your vehicle. Remember to inquire about parts specials, as dealerships often offer discounts on parts and services.
Let Your Local Toyota Dealer Assist with Key Fob Needs
Replacing the battery in your Toyota Corolla key fob is usually a simple DIY task. However, for more complex issues like a damaged or lost key fob, or persistent malfunctions, professional assistance is recommended. Your local Toyota dealership is equipped to handle all your Toyota key needs, from battery replacements to full key fob programming and replacements, ensuring you get back on the road with a fully functional key. They can also advise on any specific issues related to your Toyota Corolla model and key fob type.
