Is your 2006 Toyota Prius key fob starting to act up? Are you experiencing reduced range, beeping when you turn off your car, or seeing the security key icon flashing on your dashboard? These are common signs that your 2006 Prius Key Fob Battery is getting weak and needs to be replaced. Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your 2006 Prius key fob is a simple DIY task that you can accomplish in just a few minutes with a few basic tools. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful 2006 Prius key fob battery replacement. It’s crucial to replace the battery promptly because unlike older cars with mechanical keys, your Prius relies on a working key fob to start.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools:
- Precision Philips #0 screwdriver
- Thin flat-head screwdriver or paperclip
- Replacement CR2032 battery (check your local auto parts store or online retailer)
Step 1: Removing the Emergency Key
With the buttons on your 2006 Prius key fob facing upwards, locate the small spring-loaded holder. Slide this holder firmly to the left (as indicated by the red arrow in the image). While holding it in this position, pull the emergency key straight up and out of the fob (as indicated by the blue arrow). Set the emergency key aside for now.
Step 2: Accessing the Battery Compartment
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing downwards. Again, locate the spring-loaded holder, but this time slide it to the right (red arrow). While sliding it to the right, push the back panel of the key fob upwards (blue arrow). This back panel should slide off, revealing the battery compartment. If you find it difficult to slide, try using a rubber glove to improve your grip on the fob.
Step 3: Unscrewing and Opening the Key Fob
Now you will see the battery cover plate secured by four small screws. Use your Philips #0 screwdriver to carefully remove these four screws circled in red in the image. Once the screws are removed, use a paperclip or a thin flat-head screwdriver. Insert the tool into the small slot indicated by the blue arrow and gently pry upwards. This will lift the battery cover plate and give you access to the battery.
Step 4: Replacing the Battery
With the battery cover plate removed, you can now access the old CR2032 battery. Take note of the orientation of the battery before removing it. The positive (+) side of the battery should be facing upwards, towards the cover panel. Carefully remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction, as shown in the image.
Step 5: Reassembly
Reassembly is simply the reverse of the removal process. Place the battery cover plate back onto the key fob and secure it with the four Philips screws. Slide the back panel back into place until it clicks securely. Finally, slide the emergency key back into the key fob until it locks in place.
You have now successfully completed your 2006 Prius key fob battery replacement! Test your key fob to ensure it is working correctly. Typically, original key fob batteries in 2006 Prius models last for 3-5 years, so replacing it now should keep your key fob functioning reliably for years to come.
