Is your Toyota Camry key fob battery dying? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Like any battery, the one in your Camry key fob will eventually need replacing. The good news is, changing the battery in your Camry key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to going to a dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to replace your Battery For Camry Key Fob quickly and efficiently.
Identifying Your Camry Key Fob Battery Type
Before you start, it’s crucial to know the correct battery type for your Camry key fob. While models can vary slightly depending on the year of your Camry, the most common battery is the CR1632. This is a 3V lithium coin cell battery. To be absolutely sure, you can check your owner’s manual or, once you open your key fob (as shown below), you can identify the battery type printed directly on the old battery itself. Having the right battery ensures your key fob will function correctly after replacement.
Tools You’ll Need
The best part about this DIY task is that you likely already have the only tool you need:
- Your Camry’s Mechanical Key: This is the small, physical key that slides out of your smart key fob. It acts as the perfect tool to open the fob.
- A New CR1632 Battery: Make sure you have a fresh CR1632 battery ready to go. You can find these at most drug stores, electronics stores, and online retailers.
That’s it! No special tools or expertise are required.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replace Your Camry Key Fob Battery
Let’s get started with the battery replacement process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your Camry key fob working like new in no time.
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small latch or button on the side of your Camry key fob. Press and hold this latch while gently pulling out the mechanical key. This key is your primary tool for opening the fob.
Step 2: Locate the Notch and Pry Open the Fob
Examine the key fob where you just removed the mechanical key. You’ll see a narrow slot or notch. This is where you’ll insert the end of the mechanical key to pry the fob open.
Carefully insert the thin end of the mechanical key into this slot. Gently twist the key. You should feel the fob begin to separate. Don’t force it; a gentle twist is usually enough to pop it open.
Step 3: Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the fob is open, you’ll see the circuit board. The battery is located on the other side of this board. The circuit board might be lightly adhered to the case with double-sided tape. Carefully use the end of your mechanical key to gently lift the circuit board and remove it from the compartment.
The battery is held in place by small metal clips or legs. Gently pry these clips open one at a time to release the old CR1632 battery. Note the orientation of the battery (+ side up or down) before removing it.
Step 4: Install the New Battery
Take your new CR1632 battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure it’s securely placed under the retaining clips. You should hear a slight click as it snaps into place.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully place the circuit board back into its compartment and snap the two halves of the key fob back together. You might need to apply a bit of pressure to ensure it’s fully closed and secure. Once you hear it click shut, your key fob is reassembled.
Tips for Extending Your Camry Key Fob Battery Life
To prolong the life of your battery for Camry key fob, consider these tips based on Toyota’s service recommendations:
- Keep your key fob away from electronic devices: Devices like cell phones, laptops, TVs, and monitors emit electronic “noise” that can cause your smart key to constantly “wake up,” draining the battery faster. Toyota recommends keeping your key fob at least 40 inches (1 meter) away from these devices when not in use.
- Store your spare key fob separately: If you have a second key fob, store it away from electronic devices and your primary key to prevent unnecessary battery drain.
While complete separation might be impractical in daily life, being mindful of where you place your key fob can contribute to a longer battery lifespan.
What to Do if Your Camry Doesn’t Start After Battery Replacement
In most cases, replacing the battery will immediately restore your Camry key fob’s functionality. However, if your car doesn’t start right away, don’t panic. Toyota has a backup starting method:
- Emergency Start: If the battery is extremely low, you can still start your Camry. Simply place the back of your key fob (the side with the Toyota logo) directly against the “Start” button on your dashboard. This allows the car to detect the key and start the engine even with a weak battery.
This emergency start feature is a helpful failsafe if your new battery isn’t making immediate contact or if there’s another unforeseen issue.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery for Camry key fob is a simple and cost-effective DIY task. By following these steps, you can easily replace your battery and ensure your key fob continues to work reliably. This guide saves you a trip to the dealership and empowers you to handle basic car maintenance yourself. Keep an eye on our website, keyfobprog.com, for more helpful guides and tips on key fob programming and maintenance for various car models.
