Is your Toyota Prius key fob starting to act up? Perhaps it’s beeping at you after you turn off the engine, or maybe you’ve noticed the remote range isn’t what it used to be. These are common signs that your key fob battery is getting weak and needs replacing. Don’t worry, you don’t need to rush to a dealership. Changing the battery in your Toyota Prius key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly and efficiently replace your key fob battery and get back on the road with confidence. Since the Toyota Prius relies on an electronic key system without a traditional mechanical key for starting, a functioning key fob battery is essential. Let’s get started and show you How To Change Battery In Toyota Prius Key Fob.
Recognizing the Signs of a Low Key Fob Battery
Before your key fob completely stops working, your Prius will likely give you several warnings that the battery is nearing the end of its life. Being aware of these signs can prevent you from getting stranded. Here are the common indications that it’s time for a new key fob battery:
- Beeping Sounds: One of the most noticeable signs is a beeping sound coming from your Prius after you switch off the ignition. This is often a clear signal that the key fob battery is low and needs replacement soon.
- Reduced Remote Range: You might find that you need to be much closer to your Prius than usual for the remote to lock or unlock the doors, or to activate other remote functions. This decrease in range is a typical symptom of a weakening battery.
- Intermittent Functionality: Sometimes the key fob might work, and sometimes it might not respond at all. This inconsistent behavior can also point to a low battery.
- Flashing Security Indicator: Keep an eye on your dashboard. After turning off the car, you may notice the security “key” icon flashing. This is another way your Prius communicates that the key fob battery is losing power.
Ignoring these warnings can lead to your key fob failing completely, making it inconvenient to operate your vehicle. Replacing the battery at the first sign of trouble is a proactive step to ensure you always have reliable access to your Toyota Prius.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Fortunately, changing the battery in your Toyota Prius key fob requires minimal tools and a readily available replacement battery. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you begin:
- Precision Screwdrivers: You will need a Philips head screwdriver to remove small screws from the key fob. A #0 Philips head screwdriver, often found in precision screwdriver sets, is the recommended size to avoid stripping the screw heads.
- Thin Flat-head Screwdriver or Paperclip: A thin flat-head screwdriver or even a sturdy paperclip will be useful for gently prying open the battery compartment cover plate after removing the screws.
- CR2032 Battery: The Toyota Prius key fob uses a CR2032 type battery. These batteries are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. While original batteries may be Panasonic brand, any good quality CR2032 battery will work perfectly.
Prepare these items before starting the replacement process to ensure a smooth and efficient battery change.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Prius Key Fob Battery
Now, let’s get to the step-by-step process of replacing the battery in your Toyota Prius key fob. Follow these instructions carefully to easily complete the battery change.
Step 1: Removing the Emergency Key
The first step is to remove the mechanical emergency key from the key fob. This key is a backup in case of electronic failure and needs to be removed to access the key fob casing.
- Locate the spring-loaded holder on the key fob, usually positioned at the top when the buttons are facing up.
- Slide the spring-loaded holder to the left (or as indicated by the arrow on your key fob).
- While holding the holder in the slid position, pull the emergency key upwards and out of the key fob. It should slide out smoothly.
Set the emergency key aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Accessing the Key Fob Casing
With the emergency key removed, you can now access the key fob casing to get to the battery compartment.
- Turn the key fob over so the buttons are facing down.
- Locate the spring-loaded holder again, now on the opposite side from where you removed the emergency key.
- Slide this holder to the right (or as indicated).
- While sliding the holder, push the back panel of the key fob upwards. This back panel should slide off, revealing the internal components of the key fob. If the panel is tight, try using a rubber glove to get a better grip and gently slide it off.
Place the back panel aside.
Step 3: Opening the Battery Compartment
With the back panel removed, you will now see the battery compartment cover plate, which is secured by screws.
- Identify the four small screws that are circled or located at the corners of the battery cover plate.
- Using your Philips #0 screwdriver, carefully remove these four screws by turning them counter-clockwise. Keep the screws in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
- Once the screws are removed, use a paperclip or a thin flat-head screwdriver to gently pry up the battery cover plate. Look for a small notch or gap where you can insert your tool to pry it open. The cover should come off easily.
Set the battery cover plate and screws aside.
Step 4: Replacing the Battery
Now you have access to the old CR2032 battery.
- Take note of the orientation of the old battery before removing it. Usually, the positive (+) side faces upwards, towards the cover panel.
- Gently remove the old battery. You might be able to pry it out with your fingertip or the thin flat-head screwdriver if needed.
- Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the compartment, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing in the correct direction (usually upwards). Push the battery down until it is securely in place.
- Properly dispose of the old battery according to local regulations for electronic waste.
Step 5: Reassembling the Key Fob
With the new battery in place, you can now reassemble the key fob.
- Place the battery cover plate back over the battery compartment.
- Reinstall the four small screws using your Philips #0 screwdriver, turning them clockwise until they are snug but not overly tight.
- Slide the back panel of the key fob back into place until it clicks or sits flush with the rest of the casing.
- Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and is securely held in place.
Once reassembled, test the key fob to ensure it is working correctly. Try locking and unlocking your Prius remotely and starting the car to confirm the new battery is functioning as expected.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully changed the battery in your Toyota Prius key fob. This simple maintenance task can save you time and money compared to visiting a dealership. By following these straightforward steps, you can ensure your key fob remains functional and reliable, providing you with seamless access to your Toyota Prius. Remember to replace your key fob battery whenever you notice the warning signs to avoid any inconvenience. For more helpful guides and DIY car maintenance tips, visit keyfobprog.com.
