Toyota RAV4 Key Battery Low: Bring Key To Convenience

CR2032 battery

If you’re here, you’ve probably received a message on your dashboard about a Toyota RAV4 key battery low. Your Toyota will show you the message to inform you that your key battery has been drained. This is nothing to get too worried about. 

Today, I am uncovering the signs of a low-key battery, how to replace it, and when to do so.  I am also sharing the cost, size, and maintenance of these handy little devices. So, stick till the end to solve this issue!

Signs of a Toyota RAV4 Key Battery Low

The low-key battery is not too serious of a problem. But it can be frustrating if your key fob isn’t working properly. Luckily, there are a few clear signs of the draining of your key that you need to keep an eye on. Here are three to keep in mind:

Warning: “Key Battery Low; Replace the Battery”

This is a warning message that will appear on the multimedia display on some Toyota RAV4 models. display a “Low Battery” message on the dashboard to alert you to the problem. The warning means exactly what it says. Nothing to worry about, just a sign to run and buy a new key battery.

You should replace the remote control battery every 1 to 2 years or whenever you notice signs of a low battery.

Smart Key System & Wireless Remote Control Malfunction

Another symptom of a dead battery is that the key fob may not work properly. The key may have difficulty locking and unlocking the doors. The car may also not recognize the key to start the engine.

Reduction in Signal Range

A low-smart key battery often reduces your key fob’s signal range and functionality, indicating it’s time for a quick battery swap. The smart key only works when you are very close to the vehicle compared to before.

Unresponsive Fob

Pressing the unlock button again and again without a response is a sign of a low battery. When the battery is low, you may not be able to unlock or start the RAV4 from the usual distance.

Things You’ll Need For Replacement

To start the replacement process, you will need both of the following:

• CR2032 lithium battery replaceable battery
• Small flathead screwdriver

Replacing The Key Fob Battery: A Step-by-step Guide

Purchased a new key battery? Just follow the steps below to ensure your smart key works properly. These steps are the same for replacing the key fob battery. If you have a smart key, however, you may remove the mechanical key before starting. Ensure you open the fob casing with a screwdriver and follow the steps in this guide.

Step 1: Remove the Cover

Hold the key by the buttons and search for a small nut. In the middle of the keychain, you will find a small hole that can be opened with a screwdriver or similar object.

Use the screwdriver to carefully open the electronic key case. Be careful with the internal parts so that they don’t get damaged.

Step 2: Take off the Circular Red Piece

Once you remove the back cover, you will see a round red rubber piece with a small slot in the middle to hold it in place. Remove it.

Step 3: Remove the Old Battery

Remove the old battery and note its placement (positive and negative). The battery should now be exposed and there should be another slot on the top where you can insert a screwdriver and remove it.

Step 4: Install the New Battery

Insert the new CR2032 battery in the same placement as the old one. Take your new battery and make sure the positive side is facing up, away from the logo. One end goes in first and then clicks into place. For hybrid models, replacing the RAV4 hybrid key battery follows the same procedure, ensuring compatibility with CR2032 batteries.

Step 5: Replace the Components

Push the housing back until it clicks into place. Replace the rubber back cover and then the mechanical switch. Test your new battery by pressing the buttons to make sure they work properly. Now you’re done.

Note: If you are not able to replace the battery yourself, you may visit your Toyota dealer or local auto parts store. Don’t forget the new battery. They may be able to replace them for you for free if you have it.

Other Potential Problems

If changing the battery didn’t solve your problem, here are a few common issues and solutions that may be showing up on your key fob:

• Reprogram the key: If your key fob doesn’t respond, you may need to reprogram it.
• Check for physical damage: Check the key fob for any obvious damage. Internal components such as the circuit board may be affected by this.
• Ensure your car battery is charged: A weak car battery can affect the performance of the key fob.

Replacement Cost & Availability

The cost of a new battery is very low. You can buy many smart key batteries for about $3-$5.

Toyota uses this type of battery in its smart keys because they are widely available. You can find these in department stores, hardware stores, auto parts stores, and, of course, dealerships.

Toyota Hacks: What to do if replacing the battery doesn’t work?

Did you know that if you are in an emergency and need to start your SUV fast, Toyota has a smart backup for you? The intelligent design of the fob allows for the space for an embedded emergency key in the fob itself and offers a quick workaround for getting the car started. Here is how you can start your Toyota RAV4 without the key fob:

• Opening the Door: To access the key, push the rectangular-shaped button on the left edge of the fob and slide out the embedded key. Now put it in the space next to the driver’s door handle and open the door. 
• Starting the Car: Once you have opened the door, press the engine button and place the key fob on top of the button with the Toyota’s monogram facing downward. Hold it for a second and press the engine button again. Et voila! You are good to go!

Note: If you want to use this method of using the mechanical key, you should consider deactivating your smart key.

Battery Size

The RAV4, like most Toyota vehicles, uses the CR2032 battery, which is a small, round, flat lithium battery. It is also called a “button cell” because it is shaped and sized like a button. It may be compact, but it has enough energy to perform reliably for up to two years.

Also, this durable key battery works for all RAV4 trims including the Plug-In Hybrid, Hybrid, and gas-powered variants.

Activating Battery Saver Mode

While the battery will likely last a year or two, there are a few ways to care for and maintain your primary battery to ensure it lasts as long as possible. For smart keys, you can activate battery-saving mode. Just follow the steps mentioned below:

• Press and hold the lock button 
• Press the unlock button twice
• Your key light will flash four times

Tips for Extending Battery Life

There are a few different ways in which you can extend the battery of your key fob. I am mentioning these below:

• Don’t expose your fob to extreme temperatures.
• Keep the switch about 3 feet away from large electrical devices that may have a magnetic field, such as televisions, microwaves, and speakers. This will help avoid signal interference.
• Use the emergency key occasionally to spread out your battery usage.
• Keep water away from your smart key, as this can damage the battery system.

FAQs

Sources

If you want to read more information on these key batteries of your RAV4, you may check the following link:

Bayside Toyota

Conclusion

Is your Toyota key not unlocking your RAV4 anymore? A low battery can be the cause of this disruption, often making it difficult to lock, unlock, or start your car. But with some help, you can start identifying the signs of a low battery. By replacing the battery yourself or through a dealer, you can prevent these problems from showing up in the future.