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Understanding Your Lexus Key Fob and Battery Basics

A Lexus key fob is a small remote control device that lets you lock, unlock, and sometimes start your vehicle from a distance. Inside this compact device is a battery that powers all of these functions. The battery in a key fob typically lasts between three to four years, depending on how often you use the remote and environmental factors like temperature and humidity.

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Lexus key fobs use coin-cell batteries, which are small, round, flat batteries similar to the ones found in watches or calculators. The most common battery type used in Lexus key fobs is the CR2032, though some older or newer models may use CR2025 or CR2016 batteries. These batteries are inexpensive, usually costing between one and five dollars each, and are available at most pharmacies, supermarkets, and automotive retailers.

The battery inside your key fob gradually loses its charge over time through normal use. Every time you press a button on your remote, the battery delivers a small amount of power to transmit a signal to your vehicle. As months and years pass, this repeated use depletes the battery's energy reserves. Additionally, leaving your key fob in extremely hot or cold environments can speed up battery drain.

Understanding how your key fob battery works helps you recognize when it needs replacement. Common signs include buttons that require harder pressing to work, a reduced range for locking and unlocking your vehicle, or buttons that work intermittently. Some people notice their key fob stops working suddenly, while others see a gradual decline in performance over several weeks.

Practical Takeaway: Most Lexus key fobs use CR2032 batteries that cost just a few dollars and last three to four years. Learning to replace the battery yourself can save you money compared to dealership service, which often charges $50 to $100 for the same task.

How to Identify Your Lexus Key Fob Model and Battery Type

Before you can replace your key fob battery, you need to know which type of battery your specific key fob uses. Lexus has manufactured many different key fob designs over the years, and the battery type can vary depending on your vehicle's model year and trim level. Taking time to identify your specific key fob model ensures you purchase the correct replacement battery.

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The first step is to examine your key fob physically. Most Lexus key fobs have a small seam or line running around the edge where the two halves of the plastic casing meet. Look for any text or markings printed on the back of your key fob. Lexus sometimes includes the battery type number on the back casing, which might read "CR2032" or similar. If you see this marking, you have found the battery type directly.

If your key fob doesn't have the battery type printed on it, you can check your vehicle's owner's manual. The manual typically includes a section on key fob maintenance and battery replacement that specifies which battery type your particular model uses. Owner's manuals are often available free online through Lexus's official website by entering your vehicle's year and model. You can also contact a Lexus dealership and provide them with your vehicle identification number (VIN), and they can tell you which battery your key fob requires.

Another option is to visit an automotive retailer or pharmacy and bring your key fob with you. Staff members at these locations can often open your key fob and look at the battery to tell you exactly what type you need. This method takes just a few minutes and requires no special tools. Some retailers may even replace the battery for you at that moment, sometimes at no charge if you purchase the battery from them.

Common Lexus key fob battery types include: CR2032 (the most common, used in many 2000s and newer models), CR2025 (used in some older Lexus models), and CR2016 (less common but used in certain compact remotes). Once you know your battery type, you can purchase replacements in bulk so you have extras on hand for future use.

Practical Takeaway: Check your vehicle's owner's manual or visit a local automotive retailer with your key fob to identify the correct battery type. Most Lexus vehicles use CR2032 batteries, but confirming before purchase prevents buying the wrong size.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Opening Your Key Fob

Opening your Lexus key fob requires only a small amount of care and usually no special tools. Most Lexus key fobs can be opened using a coin, a plastic opening tool, or even a thin flathead screwdriver. The process is straightforward and takes only a minute or two once you understand where to apply pressure.

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Start by examining the seam that runs around the middle of your key fob. This seam indicates where the two halves of the plastic casing separate. Hold your key fob in one hand with the seam facing horizontally. Using your other hand, take a coin (a penny or quarter works well) and locate the small indentation or slot along the seam. This slot is designed as a starting point for opening the fob.

Insert the edge of your coin into the slot and apply gentle, steady pressure. Do not force the coin or twist it sharply, as this can crack the plastic casing. Instead, use a slow, controlled motion to pry the two halves apart. As you increase the pressure, you should feel the fob beginning to separate. Once the gap widens slightly, you can use your fingers to gently pull the two halves apart the rest of the way.

As the two halves separate, you will expose the interior of your key fob. Inside, you will see the battery, typically mounted in a small compartment or holder. The battery is usually held in place by a small metal or plastic clip, or it may simply rest in a shallow depression designed for its size. Take note of how the battery is positioned before removing it. Most batteries sit with a specific side facing up, and you will need to orient the new battery the same way.

If your key fob resists opening, do not force it. Some models have a small screw that must be removed first. Look for a tiny screw hole on the back or edges of your key fob. If you find one, use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw before attempting to pry the two halves apart. Keep this screw in a safe place so you can reinstall it after replacing the battery.

Practical Takeaway: Use a coin to gently pry your key fob open along the visible seam. Apply steady, controlled pressure rather than forcing the two halves apart to avoid damaging the plastic casing.

Removing the Old Battery and Installing the New One

Once your key fob is open, removing the old battery and installing a new one is a simple process that requires no special skills. Handle the battery carefully and pay attention to its orientation so you can install the replacement battery correctly.

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Before touching any components inside your key fob, wash your hands or wipe them on a clean, dry cloth. The natural oils on your skin can potentially interfere with the battery contacts over time, reducing the battery's performance. Avoid touching the metal contacts on the battery or the terminals inside the key fob where the battery sits.

Look at how the old battery is positioned inside the fob. Note which side faces up or toward you. If the battery is held by a clip, gently lift the clip away from the battery. If the battery simply rests in a holder, use your fingernail or a plastic tool to lift one edge of the battery slightly and slide it out. Be gentle to avoid damaging any internal components.

Once the old battery is removed, take your new battery and orient it in the same position as the old one was. This orientation matters because the battery has a positive side (marked with a plus sign and usually shiny) and a negative side (marked with a minus sign and usually duller). Installing the battery upside down may prevent your key fob from working properly.

Slide the new battery into the holder, positioning it so it sits flat in the designated space. If a clip holds the battery in place, gently press the clip over the battery to secure it. The battery should feel snug but not overly tight. Test the battery's position by gently pressing on it with your finger. It should not move around or feel loose.

Some key fobs have multiple batteries. Before reassembling your fob, check