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Damaged Key Fob for a 2023 Toyota Camry: What to Do Next (US)

A damaged key fob on a 2023 Toyota Camry can cause unreliable locking/unlocking, “Key Not Detected” messages, or a no-start situation. The good news: many issues can be stabilized quickly, and you may still be able to start the car using the fob’s built-in backup methods. Below are practical next steps and your replacement options in the US market.

Understanding Your Situation

Physical impact, cracked housing, water exposure, or worn buttons can damage the fob’s circuit board, battery contacts, or transmitter, leading to weak or intermittent signal and detection problems.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Check for obvious damage (cracked case, missing buttons) and remove the mechanical key from the fob so you can still unlock the driver’s door if the remote stops working.
  2. If the fob got wet: remove it from your key ring, open the case if possible, take out the battery, and let it dry completely (room-temp air flow) before testing again.
  3. Try a fresh CR2032 battery (common for Toyota smart keys) and test again; if the car won’t detect the fob, hold the fob close to the START button and try starting per the owner’s manual procedure.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery and inspect/clean contacts

Cost: $5-$25 Time: Same day

Install a new CR2032 battery and check that the battery terminals aren’t bent, corroded, or loose. If the case is cracked, a new shell can help keep the battery seated and protect the board.

✓ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • Fixes many “weak signal” and intermittent issues
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t help if the circuit board or transmitter is damaged
  • Water damage may fail later even if it works temporarily

Replace the fob shell (reuse the original electronics)

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

Move the internal circuit board and mechanical key blade into a new outer case. This is useful when buttons are torn, the housing is cracked, or the battery door won’t stay closed.

✓ Pros:
  • Keeps your original, already-programmed electronics
  • Low cost compared to a full replacement
✗ Cons:
  • Doesn’t fix internal electronic damage
  • Risk of breaking clips or mis-seating the board if done carelessly

Professional key fob refurbishment/repair (if electronics are salvageable)

Cost: $60-$180 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A locksmith or electronics repair service evaluates the board, replaces worn buttons/microswitches, repairs solder joints, or addresses battery terminal damage. Best for fobs with intermittent function after drops.

✓ Pros:
  • Can restore original fob without full replacement
  • Often faster/cheaper than dealer replacement
✗ Cons:
  • Not always possible (especially after heavy water/corrosion)
  • Quality varies by provider and parts availability

Replace with an OEM Toyota smart key (dealer-supplied) and program

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day / 1-3 days (parts dependent)

Purchase a new OEM smart key and have it cut (if needed) and programmed to your Camry. The dealer can also remove lost/damaged keys from the vehicle’s memory for security.

✓ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility and reliability
  • Dealer can verify correct part and fully program all functions
✗ Cons:
  • Typically the most expensive option
  • May require proof of ownership and an appointment

Replace with an aftermarket smart key + locksmith programming

Cost: $150-$350 Time: Same day

A qualified automotive locksmith supplies a compatible aftermarket fob and programs it to your vehicle. Some aftermarket shells/remotes may have reduced durability compared to OEM.

✓ Pros:
  • Often cheaper than the dealer
  • Mobile service may come to you
✗ Cons:
  • Compatibility and range can vary by brand
  • Not all locksmiths can program every Toyota smart key system

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t use high heat (hair dryer on hot, oven, microwave) to dry a wet fob—heat can warp the case and damage the circuit board.

✕ Don’t pry the case with metal tools aggressively; it’s easy to crack the housing, damage the board, or tear the rubber button pad.

✕ Don’t keep driving with only one working key if the fob is failing—if it dies completely, replacement and programming can become more urgent and costly.

⚠️ 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 I still start my 2023 Toyota Camry if the key fob is damaged?

Often, yes. Many Camry smart key systems allow an emergency start method by holding the fob close to the START/STOP button so the car can read it at close range. Use the exact procedure in your owner’s manual, since steps can vary by trim and system.

My key fob got wet—should I replace it immediately?

Not always, but act quickly. Remove the battery right away, dry the fob thoroughly, and test with a new battery. If you see corrosion, sticky buttons, or intermittent “Key Not Detected,” plan on repair or replacement soon because water damage can fail later.

Will a new battery fix a cracked or dropped key fob?

A new battery can help if the issue is weak power or a shifted battery contact after a drop. If the internal board is cracked or a solder joint failed, the fob may still be unreliable and may need repair or replacement.

Do I need to go to the dealer to replace a Camry smart key?

No. Many automotive locksmiths can supply and program compatible smart keys. However, the dealer is a reliable option for OEM parts and can also remove old keys from the vehicle’s memory for added security.

If my damaged fob still works sometimes, should I keep using it?

It’s better to address it proactively. Intermittent fobs can fail without warning, leaving you unable to unlock or start the car. At minimum, replace the battery and consider getting a backup key programmed.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If your Camry is down to one working key (or the fob is intermittently detected), treat it as time-sensitive. Getting a second working key sooner can prevent a stranded situation and may reduce programming hassles if the remaining key fails.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Toyota Camry.

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Last updated: 2026-01-04