It’s frustrating when your Toyota Land Cruiser key fob stops working. Often, the culprit is a dead battery. If you own a 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser and are facing this issue, understanding the correct battery type and replacement process is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to replace your 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser Key Fob Battery and get back on the road with ease.
Identifying the Correct Battery for Your 2000 Land Cruiser Key Fob
For the 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser, the recommended key fob battery is the CR1616. This is a 3V lithium coin cell battery that provides the necessary power for your key fob’s remote functions like locking, unlocking, and panic alarm. While other batteries might physically fit, using the CR1616 ensures optimal performance and longevity for your key fob.
Understanding Battery Types: CR1616 vs. Alternatives
You might encounter discussions about alternative batteries like DL1620 or CR2016, especially in online forums. Let’s clarify the differences:
CR1616: The Standard Choice
As mentioned, the CR1616 is the battery specified for the 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser key fob. The “1616” designation indicates the battery’s dimensions: approximately 16mm in diameter and 1.6mm in thickness.
DL1620/CR1620: Thicker but Not Ideal
The DL1620 is essentially a Duracell brand equivalent of the CR1620 battery. The CR1620 is also 16mm in diameter but slightly thicker at 2.0mm. While a CR1620 might have been found in some key fobs, and may even work temporarily, it’s not the recommended replacement for a 2000 Land Cruiser. The extra thickness could potentially put undue pressure on the key fob’s internal components over time.
CR2016: Used in Later Models
The CR2016 battery, which is 20mm in diameter and 1.6mm thick, is used in key fobs for later Toyota Land Cruiser models, such as the 2007 version and onwards. It is not the correct battery for a 2000 model. Using a CR2016 in a fob designed for a smaller battery will likely not work due to size mismatch.
Toyota Land Cruiser owner's manual showing key fob battery type CR1616
An excerpt from a Toyota Land Cruiser owner’s manual, indicating the CR1616 as the correct battery type for the key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser key fob is a straightforward process you can do yourself. Here’s how:
- Gather your tools and battery: You will need a small Phillips head screwdriver and a new CR1616 battery.
- Locate the screws: Turn your key fob over. You’ll typically find small screws on the back casing.
- Unscrew and open the fob: Carefully remove the screws using the screwdriver. Once removed, gently pry open the key fob casing. You might need a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool to help separate the halves.
- Identify the battery: Once open, you will see the old battery. Take note of its orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
- Remove the old battery: Gently pry out the old CR1616 battery.
- Insert the new battery: Place the new CR1616 battery into the compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation (usually + side facing up).
- Reassemble the key fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together until they snap shut.
- Replace the screws: Reinstall the screws to secure the casing.
- Test your key fob: Press the buttons to ensure your key fob is now working correctly.
Tips for Key Fob Battery Maintenance
- Battery Life: Key fob batteries typically last for a few years, but usage and environmental factors can affect their lifespan.
- Warning Signs: Reduced range, needing to press buttons multiple times, or the key fob becoming completely unresponsive are signs of a low battery.
- Regular Checks: Consider checking your key fob battery periodically, especially if you experience any of the warning signs.
- Quality Batteries: Opt for reputable brands of CR1616 batteries for reliable performance and longevity.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2000 Toyota Land Cruiser key fob is a simple maintenance task that can save you time and inconvenience. By using the correct CR1616 battery and following these steps, you can ensure your key fob is powered up and functioning reliably. Keep this guide handy for the next time your key fob battery needs replacing, and you’ll be back to enjoying the convenience of your remote keyless entry system in no time.
