Is your 2009 Toyota Camry key fob not working as reliably as it used to? You might be facing a common issue: a dead or dying key fob battery. Don’t worry, replacing it is a simple task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to a dealership visit. This guide will walk you through each step of replacing the battery in your 2009 Camry smart key, ensuring you get back to unlocking and starting your car with ease.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A small flat-head screwdriver or the mechanical key from your Camry smart fob (which we’ll use in this guide).
- A new CR1632 battery. You can find these at most drugstores, electronics stores, and online retailers.
Step-by-Step 2009 Camry Key Fob Battery Replacement Guide
Let’s get started with the battery replacement process. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small latch on the side of your Camry key fob. Press and hold this latch while pulling out the mechanical key. This key is designed to be used as a tool to open the fob, as well as a backup to manually unlock your car door.
Step 2: Pry Open the Fob
Now, take the mechanical key you just removed and look for a narrow slot on the key fob, located perpendicular to where you just pulled the key from. Insert the end of the mechanical key into this slot.
Gently twist the mechanical key. This will apply leverage and pop open the two halves of the key fob. You might hear a click, and the fob should split open easily.
Step 3: Access the Circuit Board
Once the fob is open, you’ll see a circuit board inside one of the halves. The battery is located underneath this board. The circuit board is typically held in place with a light adhesive or small clips.
Carefully slide the end of the mechanical key under the edge of the circuit board and gently lever it upwards. It should lift out without much force.
Step 4: Replace the Battery
With the circuit board lifted, you can now see the battery. It’s a small, round CR1632 battery, held in place by little metal clips or legs.
Carefully pry open these clips one at a time to release the old battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up) before removing it, and then insert the new CR1632 battery in the same orientation.
Step 5: Reassemble the Fob
Now that you’ve replaced the battery, carefully place the circuit board back into its compartment in the key fob. Ensure it’s seated correctly.
Finally, snap the two halves of the key fob back together. You may need to press firmly until you hear a click, ensuring it’s securely closed.
Tips and Considerations
- Battery Type: Always use a CR1632 battery for your 2009 Camry key fob. Using a different type might cause issues.
- Low Battery Warning: Your Camry’s dashboard may display a warning message when the key fob battery is getting low. Don’t ignore this warning; replace the battery soon to avoid being stranded.
- Electronic Interference: Storing your key fob close to electronic devices like cell phones, laptops, and TVs might reduce battery life due to constant “pings” that keep the key fob active. While this is mentioned in some Toyota service bulletins, modern key fobs are generally less susceptible to this.
- Dealer Cost vs. DIY: Dealerships often charge a significant amount (sometimes $50 or more) for a simple key fob battery replacement. Doing it yourself costs only the price of the battery, which is usually under $5, offering substantial savings.
- Emergency Start: If your key fob battery is completely dead, you can still start your 2009 Camry. Place the back of the key fob (the side with the Toyota logo) directly against the “Start” button on your dashboard and press the button. This uses a passive RFID chip in the key to start the car even without battery power.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2009 Camry key fob is a straightforward DIY task that anyone can accomplish in just a few minutes. By following these simple steps, you can avoid unnecessary dealership charges and ensure your key fob is always ready to unlock your car and start your engine. Enjoy the convenience of a fresh battery and the satisfaction of a job well done!
