Is your 2007 Lexus GS 350 key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before assuming the worst, the most likely culprit is a dead battery. Fortunately, replacing the key fob battery on your Lexus GS 350 is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service. This guide will walk you through identifying the correct battery and replacing it efficiently.
The key fob for your 2007 Lexus GS 350 typically uses either a CR1632 or a CR2032 battery. To ensure you purchase the right one, it’s always best to check your owner’s manual or, once you open your key fob, inspect the old battery directly. These batteries are commonly available online and at most stores selling batteries, often for under $6.
Replacing the battery is a simple DIY task. Here’s how to open your Lexus GS 350 key fob and get it done:
Opening Your Key Fob:
Depending on the specific design of your 2007 Lexus GS 350 key fob, the opening method may slightly vary.
- For some models: Locate the emergency key release button or latch on your key fob. Remove the mechanical key. Once removed, look for a slot where the key was housed. Insert the emergency key into this slot. Gently twist or lever the key to pry the key fob casing open.
- For other models: If you don’t see a key slot after removing the emergency key, examine the edges of your key fob for a small notch or seam. This is common on slightly older designs. Use a thin, flat object, such as a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool (to avoid scratches), to carefully insert into the notch and gently pry the two halves of the key fob case apart. Work your way around the seam until the case separates.
Battery Replacement:
Once the key fob is open:
- Access the Circuit Board: Carefully lift the circuit board inside the key fob to reveal the battery compartment. Be gentle to avoid damaging any components.
- Note Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, take a quick look at how it’s positioned in the compartment. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) sides to ensure you install the new battery correctly.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently remove the depleted battery. You might be able to pry it out with your fingertip or the same small tool you used to open the case.
- Install the New Battery: Insert the new CR1632 or CR2032 battery, matching the correct orientation you noted earlier. Ensure it sits securely in the compartment and makes good contact with the terminals.
- Close the Key Fob: Carefully reassemble the two halves of the key fob case, pressing them firmly together until they snap closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is securely sealed.
Testing Your Key Fob:
After replacing the battery, test your Lexus GS 350 key fob to confirm it’s working correctly. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to see if they function as expected. If the key fob still doesn’t work, double-check that the battery is installed with the correct polarity and that the battery contacts are clean and making good contact. Sometimes, slightly adjusting the battery position can resolve connection issues.
While battery replacement resolves most key fob issues, it’s worth knowing the different types of key fobs, as mentioned in our broader resources: standard remotes, flip keys, remote heads, fobik keys, and smart keys. Understanding your key fob type can be helpful for future maintenance or replacement considerations.
If a new battery doesn’t solve your problem, there might be a more significant issue with your key fob, and you may need to consider a full key fob replacement. However, for most 2007 Lexus GS 350 owners, a simple battery change is all that’s needed to restore full key fob functionality.
