Is your Lexus key fob starting to feel a bit unresponsive? Maybe you have to press the buttons harder or get closer to your car for it to unlock. These are common signs that your Lexus key fob battery is running low and needs replacing. The good news is, replacing your Lexus key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself at home in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the simple steps on How To Replace A Lexus Key Fob Battery, saving you time and potentially money compared to visiting a dealership.
Replacing your key fob battery is essential for maintaining the convenience and security features of your Lexus. A dead battery can leave you locked out of your car or unable to start it remotely. Fortunately, this is a very simple piece of car maintenance that doesn’t require any special tools or expertise.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A new CR2032 battery: This is the most common type of battery used in Lexus key fobs. Double-check your owner’s manual to confirm the correct battery type for your specific Lexus model.
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob case. A small coin or even the tip of your car key can also work.
- A soft cloth (optional): To prevent scratches on your key fob casing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Lexus Key Fob Battery
Now, let’s get to the step-by-step process of replacing your Lexus key fob battery:
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Locate the Notch or Opening: Examine your Lexus key fob closely. You should find a small notch or seam line on the side of the key fob casing. This is where you will insert your tool to open it.
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Gently Pry Open the Key Fob: Using your flathead screwdriver or chosen tool, carefully insert the tip into the notch or seam. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Avoid using excessive force, as you don’t want to damage the plastic casing. Sometimes, sliding a thin card along the seam can also help to open it smoothly.
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Identify the Battery Type: Once the key fob is open, you will see the battery compartment. Take note of the battery type. It’s usually printed directly on the battery itself (CR2032). While CR2032 is common, confirming the type ensures you purchase the correct replacement.
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Remove the Old Battery: The battery is usually held in place by small clips. Gently use your fingertip or the edge of your tool to carefully lift the old battery out of its compartment. Pay attention to the battery’s orientation – note which side is facing up (+ or -).
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the compartment, ensuring the polarity is correct (match the + and – signs as 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 back together until they snap securely shut. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is firmly closed.
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Test the Key Fob: Test the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are working correctly. Try locking and unlocking your car remotely, and if your Lexus has remote start, test that function as well. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully replaced your Lexus key fob battery!
Troubleshooting and Tips
- Key Fob Still Not Working? If your key fob doesn’t work after replacing the battery, double-check that you inserted the new battery with the correct polarity. Also, ensure the battery type is correct. If it still doesn’t work, there might be another issue, and it’s best to consult your Lexus dealership or a qualified mechanic.
- Battery Type is Crucial: Always use the correct battery type specified for your Lexus key fob. Using a different type could cause damage or malfunction.
- Handling Small Screws (If Applicable): Some older Lexus key fobs might use small screws to secure the casing. If your key fob has screws, you’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver in addition to the flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to strip the screw heads and keep track of all small parts.
- Gentle is Key: Avoid forcing the key fob open or using excessive pressure, as this can damage the casing or internal components.
When to Seek Professional Help
While replacing a Lexus key fob battery is generally easy, there might be situations where you prefer professional assistance:
- If you are uncomfortable with DIY tasks.
- If you encounter stripped screws or difficulty opening the key fob casing.
- If your key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery, indicating a potentially more complex issue.
In these cases, your local Lexus dealership or a qualified car mechanic can help diagnose and resolve the problem.
Replacing your Lexus key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your car’s remote functions working smoothly. By following this guide, you can confidently perform this maintenance task yourself and ensure your Lexus key fob is always ready when you need it.
