Damaged Key Fob medium urgency

Damaged Key Fob for a 2022 Toyota Camry (US): What to Do Now

A damaged key fob on a 2022 Toyota Camry can cause intermittent unlocking, push-button start issues, or a complete no-response. The right next step depends on whether the damage is physical (cracked case, broken buttons) or internal (water impact, battery contact damage). This guide covers safe immediate steps and your best repair or replacement options in the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

Key fobs commonly get damaged from drops, crushed pockets/bags, worn-out buttons, or moisture exposure. Even if the car still starts, internal damage can worsen over time and leave you locked out or unable to start the vehicle when the fob battery/contact fails.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Check if the car will unlock/start using the mechanical emergency key and the Toyota Smart Key backup start method (hold fob to the START button) if needed.
  2. Inspect the fob: cracked shell, missing buttons, loose battery door, corrosion, or moisture. If wet, remove the battery (if possible) and let the fob dry thoroughly before testing again.
  3. Replace the coin-cell battery with the correct type shown inside the fob (commonly CR2032 on many Toyota smart keys) and ensure the battery contacts are clean and firmly touching.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery and clean/adjust battery contacts

Cost: $5-$20 Time: Same day

Open the fob, install a fresh coin-cell battery, and gently clean any residue on the battery contacts. If contacts are bent or not making solid contact, they may be carefully adjusted. This addresses many “damaged fob” symptoms caused by impact loosening the battery or contact springs.

✓ Pros:
  • Lowest cost and fastest fix
  • Often resolves intermittent or weak signal issues after a drop
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t fix water-damaged circuit boards or broken buttons
  • Risk of damaging clips/seals if opened incorrectly

Replace the outer shell/case (reuse your internal circuit board)

Cost: $15-$60 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If the plastic housing is cracked or buttons are torn but the electronics still work, you can move the internal board and key blade/emergency key components into a new shell made for your Camry’s smart key style.

✓ Pros:
  • Keeps your original programmed electronics (no reprogramming if you reuse the same board)
  • Restores button feel and protects the internals
✗ Cons:
  • Not a solution if the circuit board is damaged
  • Wrong shell model can cause poor button alignment or weak signal

Professional key fob repair (electronics-level cleaning or component repair)

Cost: $50-$150 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A locksmith or electronics repair service evaluates the fob for water damage, broken solder joints, or failed switches and may clean corrosion or replace small components. Availability varies by area, and not all shops repair Toyota smart keys at the board level.

✓ Pros:
  • Can restore a fob that’s expensive to replace
  • May preserve your original key without new programming
✗ Cons:
  • Not always successful, especially after severe water damage
  • May still end up needing a full replacement

Replace with a new OEM Toyota Smart Key (dealer)

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day / 1-7 days

The Toyota dealer supplies the correct OEM smart key for your 2022 Camry and programs it to your vehicle. The dealer can also verify compatibility by VIN and ensure all features work (lock/unlock, trunk, panic, and push-button start).

✓ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility and reliability
  • Dealer can confirm correct part and program it properly
✗ Cons:
  • Usually the most expensive option
  • May require appointment and proof of ownership

Replace with an aftermarket or refurbished smart key (locksmith)

Cost: $150-$400 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A qualified automotive locksmith sources an aftermarket or refurbished smart key and programs it to your Camry. This can be cheaper than dealer OEM, but quality and warranty vary by brand and supplier.

✓ Pros:
  • Often cheaper and faster than dealer
  • Mobile service may come to you
✗ Cons:
  • Aftermarket quality can vary (range, durability, button feel)
  • Some keys may not support every feature or may be less reliable long-term

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t keep pressing buttons repeatedly if the fob is wet—remove the battery (if possible) and dry it first to reduce the chance of shorting the circuit board.

✕ Don’t use super glue or bulky tape around the battery door or buttons; it can prevent proper closure, trap moisture, and make later repairs harder.

✕ Don’t buy a random “fits Toyota” fob online without matching the exact Camry smart key style/part compatibility—incorrect frequency/board type can’t be programmed or may work poorly.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Throwing away damaged key
  • Not salvaging electronics
  • Buying OEM when aftermarket works
  • Not considering case-only replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my 2022 Toyota Camry still start if the key fob is damaged or the battery is dead?

Often yes. Many Toyota smart keys support a backup start method: hold the fob close to the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START. If the fob is physically broken or the internal chip is damaged, this may not work.

If I swap the case/shell, do I need to reprogram the key fob?

Not if you move your original internal circuit board into the new shell and it remains intact. Reprogramming is typically needed only when replacing the electronics with a different fob.

What if the fob got wet (rain, washing machine, spilled drink)?

Remove the battery as soon as possible (if you can), gently dry the exterior, and let the fob dry thoroughly before testing. If you see corrosion or it behaves erratically afterward, plan on professional evaluation or replacement—water damage can worsen over time.

Do I need to replace both keys if one is damaged?

No. You can replace or add a single key. However, it’s smart to keep at least two working keys/fobs to avoid higher costs and inconvenience if you lose the last working one.

⏱️ Urgency Note: High urgency if this is your only working fob or the fob shows water exposure/corrosion—failure can become sudden and leave you unable to unlock or start the car. If you still have one working spare, you can usually schedule repair/replacement without emergency service.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2022 Toyota Camry.

View Camry Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04