Is your Lexus Rx Key Fob not working? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. A dead battery is the most frequent culprit behind a malfunctioning car remote. For Lexus RX models, replacing the key fob battery is usually a straightforward and cost-effective fix you can do yourself. This guide will walk you through identifying the right battery and replacing it, getting you back on the road quickly.
To find the correct replacement battery for your Lexus RX key fob, you can typically use online battery finders by entering your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Lexus RX remotes commonly use CR2016, CR2032, and CR1632 batteries. These batteries are inexpensive, generally costing under $6, and are readily available online and in many stores.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Lexus RX Key Fob Battery
Follow these simple steps to open your Lexus RX key fob and replace the battery:
1. Opening the Key Fob Casing
The method to open your Lexus RX key fob depends on whether you have a newer or older model.
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Newer Lexus RX Models: Look for a small, designated slot on your key fob. First, locate and remove the hidden mechanical key from your Lexus RX key fob. Then, insert this mechanical key into the slot. This will usually allow you to pry open the key fob case easily.
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Older Lexus RX Models: For older models, you’ll likely need a thin, flat object like a small flathead screwdriver or even a sturdy plastic card. Carefully locate the notch or seam on the key fob casing. Gently insert your tool into the notch and pry the case open. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
2. Accessing and Replacing the Battery
Once you have successfully opened the key fob casing, you will see the internal components, including the circuit board and the battery.
- Gently Lift the Circuit Board: Carefully lift the circuit board to gain access to the battery compartment. Be mindful of any small components and avoid detaching any wires.
- Note Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, take a quick look at how it is positioned in the case. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) sides to ensure you insert the new battery correctly.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently remove the old battery from its housing.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, ensuring it is in the correct orientation as you noted earlier.
- Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully reassemble the key fob case, ensuring it snaps back together securely.
3. Testing Your Lexus RX Key Fob
After replacing the battery and closing the case, test your key fob to confirm it’s working correctly. Press the buttons to lock, unlock, or activate other functions of your Lexus RX.
- If it Works: Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your Lexus RX key fob battery.
- If it Doesn’t Work: If the key fob still doesn’t function, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery contacts are clean and making good contact with the battery. You can also try cleaning the contacts gently. If problems persist, you might consider watching a video tutorial for your specific Lexus RX model, or it could indicate a different issue beyond the battery.
Understanding Different Types of Key Fobs
While battery replacement is often the solution, understanding the type of key fob you have can be helpful. Here are the five common types of key fobs:
- Standard Remotes: These are basic remotes with standard lock, unlock, and sometimes panic buttons, without extra features.
- Flip Keys: These remotes have a mechanical key attached that flips out, similar to a switchblade, for manual door unlocking and ignition.
- Remote Heads: These are remotes with an integrated, non-retractable key blade. The key blade is always exposed and part of the remote head.
- Fobik Keys: Fobik keys have a hidden, separate mechanical key inside the fob. The key fob and key blade are not directly connected but are housed together.
- Smart Keys: Often associated with push-to-start ignition systems, smart keys offer features like proximity unlocking and push-button start, in addition to remote functions.
When a New Battery Isn’t the Answer
If you’ve replaced your Lexus RX key fob battery and are still experiencing issues, the problem might be more complex. In such cases, you may need to consider replacing the entire Lexus RX key fob.
For visual guidance on the battery replacement process, search for videos specific to your Lexus RX key fob on platforms like YouTube. KeyFobsPlus’s YouTube page is a great resource for step-by-step video instructions. If you can’t find a video for your exact Lexus RX key fob, look for one that shows a similar type of remote, as the battery replacement process is often very similar across different key fob styles.
