Is your Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, saving you time and potentially money compared to visiting a dealership for a simple battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Toyota Corolla Key Fob Battery Replacement
Changing the battery in your Toyota Corolla key fob is a quick and easy task. Follow these simple steps to get your key fob working like new again:
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Remove the Physical Key from the Fob. Locate the small release button on your Toyota Corolla key fob. It’s usually a small metal button situated near the key ring loop or above the physical key itself. Press and hold this button while gently pulling the physical key out of the fob.
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Open the Key Fob Casing. Once the physical key is removed, you’ll see a small slot or seam where the key was inserted. This is where you’ll open the fob. Use a small flathead screwdriver or a thin, sturdy object like a credit card or plastic pry tool. Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot and gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the plastic.
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Access and Remove the Old Battery. With the key fob open, you’ll see the internal components, including the circuit board and the battery. The battery is usually a small, round, silver disc battery. Gently take out the green circuit board to get better access to the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. You may need to use your fingertip or the tip of a pen to carefully pry the old battery out of its holder.
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Identify the Correct Replacement Battery. Check the old battery for the battery type number. Most Toyota Corolla key fobs use a CR2032 3V lithium battery. This information is also typically found in your Toyota Corolla owner’s manual. You can purchase a replacement CR2032 battery at most drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and online retailers.
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Install the New Battery. Insert the new CR2032 battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s placed in the correct orientation (matching the orientation you noted when removing the old battery). Push down gently until the battery is securely in place.
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Reassemble the Key Fob. Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is securely sealed.
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Reinsert the Physical Key. Slide the physical key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks into place.
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Test Your Key Fob. Test the buttons on your Toyota Corolla key fob to ensure they are working correctly. Lock, unlock, and test the panic button to confirm the new battery is functioning and your key fob is working as expected.
What If You Need a Full Toyota Corolla Key Fob Replacement?
While battery replacement solves many key fob issues, sometimes a full Toyota Corolla key fob replacement is necessary. This might be the case if your key fob is lost, severely damaged, or malfunctioning due to internal electronic problems beyond just battery life.
If you require a complete replacement, contacting your local Toyota dealership, like a Toyota service center, is the best course of action. They can provide you with a new Toyota Corolla key fob programmed specifically for your vehicle. While this option is more expensive than a battery change, it ensures you get a compatible and correctly programmed key fob for your Toyota Corolla. Consider checking for parts specials at your Toyota dealership to potentially save money on a replacement key fob. They can also assist if you only need a replacement physical key without the fob itself.
By following these steps, you can confidently change the battery in your Toyota Corolla key fob and keep your car accessible and secure.
