Is your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob no longer working reliably? Before you assume you need a whole new key fob, the first and easiest step is to replace the battery. A dead or dying key fob battery is a common issue, especially in older vehicles like the 2001 Lexus IS300. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your 2001 Lexus Is300 Key Fob Battery, including how to identify if it’s the problem, the type of battery you need, and how to program your key fob after battery replacement if necessary.
Is It Just the Battery? Common Key Fob Issues
Before diving into battery replacement, let’s consider if a low battery is actually the culprit. Here are some common signs that your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob battery is getting weak:
- Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your Lexus IS300 for the key fob to lock or unlock the doors.
- Intermittent Functionality: The buttons work sometimes, but not others. You might have to press them multiple times.
- No Response at All: The key fob completely stops working for locking, unlocking, or opening the trunk.
If you’re experiencing these issues, replacing the battery is a great first troubleshooting step and often resolves the problem.
Which Battery Does Your 2001 Lexus IS300 Key Fob Need?
The key fob for your 2001 Lexus IS300 typically uses a CR2016 lithium coin battery. This is a common and readily available battery type. You can find CR2016 batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and of course, online.
Make sure to use a fresh, high-quality CR2016 battery for optimal performance and longevity of your Lexus key fob.
Replacing the Battery in Your 2001 Lexus IS300 Key Fob
While specific instructions for battery replacement can vary slightly depending on the exact style of your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob, the general process is usually straightforward. You will typically need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry open the key fob casing.
General Steps (Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions if available):
- Locate the notch or seam on your key fob casing. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver.
- Carefully pry open the casing. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic. Sometimes, there might be a small screw you need to remove first.
- Remove the old CR2016 battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it.
- Insert the new CR2016 battery. Make sure the new battery is installed with the correct polarity (matching the orientation of the old battery).
- Snap the key fob casing back together. Ensure it’s securely closed.
After replacing the battery, test the key fob to see if it now operates correctly. If it does, you’re all set! If not, you may need to reprogram the remote to your vehicle.
2001 Lexus IS300 Key Fob Programming Instructions
Sometimes, after replacing the battery, your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob might need to be reprogrammed to communicate with your car again. Here are the programming instructions for the remote portion of your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob. Note that these instructions are for the remote functions (lock, unlock, trunk) only. Key cutting and immobilizer programming (to start the car) must be done by a professional locksmith or dealership.
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Preparation:
- Ensure you have all remote transmitters for your 2001 Lexus IS300.
- Get in your Lexus IS300, close and unlock the driver’s door. Make sure all other doors and the trunk are closed.
- Key is out of the ignition.
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Initiate Programming Sequence:
- Insert the key into the ignition (do NOT turn) and immediately pull it out.
- Within 40 seconds: Use the power door lock switch on the driver’s door to perform 5 lock/unlock cycles, starting with LOCK. Aim for one cycle per second (1 cycle = 1 lock and 1 unlock).
- Close, then open the driver’s door.
- Within 40 seconds: Use the power door lock switch again for 5 lock/unlock cycles, starting with LOCK, at the same pace.
- Insert the key into the ignition cylinder.
- Turn the ignition to the ON position (just before starting the car, do NOT start) and then back to OFF.
- Repeat the previous step – turn ignition ON then OFF again.
- Remove the key from the ignition.
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Programming Mode Confirmation:
- Within 3 seconds, the power door locks should cycle automatically (lock then unlock). This indicates you have successfully entered programming mode. If the locks do not cycle, return to step 1 and repeat.
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Program Remotes:
- Within 40 seconds:
- Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on the remote simultaneously for 1 second.
- Immediately release both buttons, then press and hold the lock button alone for 2 seconds.
- Within 3 seconds, the door locks should cycle once to indicate successful programming of that remote. If the locks cycle twice or not at all, repeat steps 4A and 4B for that remote.
- Repeat step 4 for each additional remote you need to program.
- Within 40 seconds:
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Exit Programming:
- Close the driver’s door.
- Test all programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly.
For your convenience, you can print these programming instructions for easy reference while you are working on your 2001 Lexus IS300.
Still Having Issues?
If you’ve replaced the battery and reprogrammed your key fob and are still experiencing problems, there could be other issues. It’s possible the key fob itself is damaged or malfunctioning. In this case, you may need to consider purchasing a replacement key fob.
If you have any questions or need further assistance with your 2001 Lexus IS300 key fob, don’t hesitate to contact a professional or call us for support.
Upgrading to a working key fob will bring your 2001 Lexus IS300 into the modern era of convenience. No more fumbling with manual locks – enjoy the ease of keyless entry once again!
