Is your Lexus IS 250 key fob refusing to cooperate? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. One of the most common culprits behind a malfunctioning key fob is a dead battery. The good news is that replacing your Lexus Is 250 Key Fob Battery is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you get your key fob back in working order in no time.
Lexus IS 250 key fobs typically utilize either a CR1632 or CR2032 battery. To pinpoint the exact battery for your model year, you can use a battery finder tool by entering your car’s year, make, and model. These batteries are readily available online and are quite affordable, usually costing under $6.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lexus IS 250 Key Fob Battery Replacement
Whether you have a newer or older Lexus IS 250, the process to access and replace the battery is quite similar. Here’s how to do it:
Tools You’ll Need
- A new CR1632 or CR2032 battery (confirm the correct type for your Lexus IS 250 year)
- For older models: A thin, flat object like a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool.
- For newer models: The built-in mechanical key from your key fob.
Opening the Key Fob Casing
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For Newer Lexus IS 250 Models: Locate the hidden mechanical key within your key fob. There’s usually a small release button or latch. Slide or press this to remove the mechanical key. Once removed, you’ll find a designated slot or notch where the key can be inserted to pry open the key fob casing. Gently insert the key and twist or lever it to separate the two halves of the fob.
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For Older Lexus IS 250 Models: Examine the key fob for a small notch or seam. This is where you’ll need to carefully pry it open. Take your flathead screwdriver or plastic pry tool and gently insert it into the notch. Apply a small amount of pressure to separate the two parts of the key fob. Be careful not to use excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic casing. Work your way around the seam if needed until the case pops open.
Battery Access and Replacement
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the internal components, including the circuit board and the battery.
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Access the Battery: Carefully lift the circuit board if necessary to get a clear view of the battery. It’s usually held in place by small clips or within a battery compartment.
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Note Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, take a quick look at how it’s positioned in the case. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) sides to ensure you install the new battery correctly.
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Remove the Old Battery: Gently pry out the old battery. You might be able to use your fingertip or the edge of your tool to nudge it out.
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Install the New Battery: Place the new Lexus IS 250 key fob battery into the compartment, ensuring it matches the orientation you noted earlier. Press down firmly until it’s securely in place.
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Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case and snap them back together. Ensure they are firmly closed and there are no gaps.
Testing Your Key Fob
After replacing the battery and reassembling your key fob, test its functionality. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to confirm they are working correctly. If the key fob still doesn’t work, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery contacts are clean and making good contact with the battery. Sometimes, gently cleaning the contacts with a cotton swab can help.
Understanding Key Fob Types
Key fobs have evolved over the years, and there are several types you might encounter:
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Standard Remotes: These are basic remotes with just lock, unlock, and sometimes panic buttons. They offer essential remote functions without extra features.
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Flip Keys: Flip keys integrate a physical key that folds into the remote body, like a switchblade. This design protects the key and reduces bulk.
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Remote Heads: These remotes have a key blade that protrudes directly from the remote. The key blade is fixed and does not retract.
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Fobik Keys: Fobik (Fob and Key In One) keys have a separate key blade that is hidden inside the fob. The key and fob are not directly connected but work together.
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Smart Keys: Often associated with push-to-start ignition systems, smart keys offer advanced features like proximity unlocking and remote start, in addition to standard remote functions.
If replacing your Lexus IS 250 key fob battery doesn’t solve your key fob issues, there might be a more complex problem. In such cases, you may need to consider replacing the entire key fob. For visual guidance on battery replacement, you can also explore video tutorials on platforms like YouTube. You can search on YouTube for “Lexus IS 250 key fob battery replacement” or visit channels like KeyFobsPlus’s YouTube page for helpful videos. If you can’t find a video specific to your Lexus IS 250 key fob, look for one that matches the type of key fob you have, as the battery replacement process is often similar across the same key fob types.
