Toyota Key Fob Tips

Step-by-Step Battery Replacement & Programming Guide

Operating Toyota vehicles is easier with the convenience of a key fob. By pressing a button, you can unlock or lock all doors, so imagine how inconvenient it is when the battery dies, especially in the hot Santa Fe weather.

Luckily for you, Toyota of Santa Fe provides service solutions for Toyota key fob battery replacement or any other problems you may have. But if you want it done from home, you can use the following Toyota key fob tips to get your key fob up and running in no time!

How to Open a Toyota Key Fob 

It seems tricky opening a key fob; you might even be scared to break it, but you don’t need to worry. There’s a simple way to open a Toyota key fob to replace the battery.

Newer key fobs have a detachable key that can be inserted into a slot where the key originally was. Most Toyota key fob guides suggest using flat-head screwdrivers or the key itself to gently separate the two sides until the key fob is opened. 

Older model Toyota fob keys open differently. You’ll need the same thin tools, but you should instead use the notches located on the sides to open the key fob.

What Type of Battery Does My Toyota Key Fob Require?

Most Toyota key fobs use a CR2032 battery, which can readily be found at any electronics store or even big-box department stores like Target or Walmart. However, to ensure you’re getting the right battery for your particular model year key fob, contact the parts department here at Toyota of Santa Fe, and we can set you up with the right battery for the job. 

Plus, if you decide you’d rather leave your key fob battery replacement up to the experts, we’re happy to handle the whole process for you. Just let us know how we can be of service!

How to Replace Your Toyota Key Fob Battery

Once the fob is open and you have your new key fob battery on hand, you’ll still need the flat tool to complete your Toyota key fob battery replacement. You’ll find an easily removable electronic piece. When the key fob is on its back, use the flat-head screwdriver or a knife to pop the dead battery out of its slot and replace it with your new battery. 

But before heading back on the road, there’s one additional step you have to take: you’ll need to program your Toyota key fob.

How to Program Your Toyota Key Fob

Proper Toyota key fob programming ensures that the key fob is synced with your Toyota, so that it’ll work as intended the next time you use it. 

Follow these steps to program your Toyota key fob:

1. Get in your vehicle and close all doors.
2. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “on” position.
3. Turn the key from “on” to “off” within five seconds.
4. Remove the key from the ignition.
5. Open and close the driver’s door twice within 40 seconds.
6. Insert and remove the key from the ignition once more.

If done within 40 seconds, the doors will unlock and lock on command.

Still Need Key Fob Help? Let Toyota of Santa Fe Be of Service!

We hope that our tips can help you and perhaps take another task off your to-do list. Our Santa Fe Toyota service center is always happy to help address your needs. From how to open Toyota key fobs to replacing the battery, contact us or visit our dealership for all your Toyota parts and service-related needs!