Is your 2010 Toyota Camry key fob not working as reliably as it used to? A common culprit is a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Toyota Camry key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. Knowing the correct battery type is the first step to getting your key fob back in top shape. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the 2010 Toyota Camry Key Fob Battery Type and how to replace it.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your 2010 Camry Key Fob
The battery you’ll need for your 2010 Toyota Camry smart key fob is a CR1632 battery. This is a 3V lithium coin cell battery. It’s important to use the correct type to ensure proper function and longevity of your key fob. Using an incorrect battery type could lead to issues with range or even damage your key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2010 Camry Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your 2010 Toyota Camry key fob is a simple DIY task that requires no special tools beyond what’s already in your key fob itself. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small latch on the side of your key fob. Press and hold this latch while pulling out the mechanical key. This key is used for manually unlocking your car door and also serves as the tool to open the key fob.
2. Open the Key Fob Casing
Examine the key fob where you removed the mechanical key. You’ll see a narrow slot. Insert the end of the mechanical key into this slot. Gently twist the key. This will pry open the two halves of the key fob casing. You might hear a click as the casing begins to separate.
3. Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the casing is open, you’ll see the circuit board and the battery. The circuit board might be lightly adhered to the casing with double-sided tape. Carefully use the end of the mechanical key to gently lift the circuit board and detach it from the casing.
The CR1632 battery is held in place by small metal clips or legs. Carefully use your fingertip or the mechanical key to gently spring these clips open one at a time to release the old battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
4. Install the New CR1632 Battery
Insert the new CR1632 battery into the compartment, ensuring it’s placed in the correct orientation (usually positive side up, matching the orientation of the battery you removed). Snap the retaining clips back into place to secure the new battery.
5. Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully place the circuit board back into its position within the key fob casing. Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap securely shut. You should hear a click, indicating that the case is properly closed.
6. Test Your Key Fob
Insert the mechanical key back into the key fob. Test the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are now working correctly to lock, unlock, and start your 2010 Toyota Camry (if equipped with remote start).
Tips for 2010 Toyota Camry Key Fob Battery Replacement
- Low Battery Warning: Pay attention to any “low key battery” warnings displayed on your 2010 Camry’s dashboard. This is an early indication that you’ll need to replace the battery soon.
- Battery Life: The original author noted that proximity to electronic devices might shorten battery life. While this is a debated point, it’s generally good practice to avoid storing your key fob directly next to cell phones or other strong electronic emitters if possible.
- Where to Buy CR1632 Batteries: CR1632 batteries are commonly available at drug stores, electronics stores like Radio Shack (if you can still find one!), auto parts stores, and online retailers like Amazon. Batteries Plus is another good source.
- Dealer Service Cost: Replacing a key fob battery at a Toyota dealership can be surprisingly expensive, sometimes costing upwards of $50 or more. DIY replacement saves you significant money.
- Emergency Start: If your key fob battery is completely dead and your car won’t start, you can still start your 2010 Toyota Camry. Place the back of the key fob (the side with the Toyota logo) directly against the “Start” button on your dashboard. This uses a passive RFID chip in the key to allow the car to start even without battery power in the fob.
Conclusion
Knowing the correct battery type for your 2010 Toyota Camry key fob, which is the CR1632, and following these simple steps, you can easily replace the battery yourself. This saves you time and money compared to going to a dealership, and ensures your key fob is always ready to unlock your car and get you on your way. Keep a spare CR1632 battery on hand so you’re prepared when the low battery warning light appears, and you’ll never be caught off guard by a dead key fob battery again.
