How to Replace Key Fob Battery in a Toyota Prius

Need a comprehensive guide on replacing the key fob battery in your car? If you’ve noticed your key fob’s performance declining or it’s no longer unlocking your vehicle smoothly, it might be time for a battery replacement. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process, ensuring you can continue to enjoy the convenience and security of your keyless entry system.

2016 – 2023 Models

1. Make sure you have a replacement CR2032 battery for the Toyota Prius smart key.
2. Locate the emergency key release button on the bottom of the smart key. 
3. Press the release button to slide out the emergency key from the key fob.
4. Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll notice a small slot where the key was. Insert the emergency key all the way into this slot. 
5. Twist the emergency key gently. This action will pop open the remote’s shell slightly, allowing you to access the battery compartment.
6. Use a small flathead screwdriver or a pointed object to lift the bottom of the battery and remove it from its compartment.
7. Insert the new CR2032 battery with the plus (+) side facing up.
8. Snap the back cover of the remote back into position.
9. Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
10. Before fully relying on the smart key, test its functionality by locking and unlocking your Toyota Prius remotely.

2010 – 2015 Models

1. Press the button on the key fob to release the key.
2. Remove the key from the fob.
3. Use the key tip to pry open the key fob. Look for a small hole where you can apply pressure to pop open the fob. 
4. Once the fob is open, you will see the circuit board and the old battery.
5. Use a flathead screwdriver or the key itself to carefully remove the old battery from the circuit board.
6. Dispose of the old battery properly.
7. Place the new CR 1632 battery into the slot on the circuit board, making sure it is inserted correctly.
8. Close the key fob by putting the components back together.
9. Reattach the key to the fob by inserting it and securing it in place.
10. Test that the key fob works correctly with the new battery.

1997 – 2009 Models

1. Locate the arrow on the key fob indicating the direction to pull.
2. Pull the mechanical key in that direction to remove it from the key fob.
3. Look for a piece on the key fob that can slide.
4. Push in a small latch near that piece and slide it to open up the battery compartment.
5. Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully work the old battery out of its slot.
6. Take the new CR 2032 battery and follow the markings to place the new battery in the battery compartment, aligning it correctly. For models older than 2004, you will need a CR 2016 battery. 
7. Slide the battery compartment cover back into its original position until it clicks shut.
8. Align the four screws with their respective positions on the key fob.
9. Use the small Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screws securely.
10. Check that the guides on the battery compartment cover match the corresponding guides on the key fob.
11. Test out the key fob. 

Reattach the mechanical key into its slot in the key fob.