What Size Battery For Prius Key Fob?

As a Prius owner, you rely on your key fob to effortlessly lock and unlock your vehicle and even start your car without entering it. However, a dead battery in your key fob can leave you stranded and helpless.

That’s why it’s crucial to know what size battery for Prius key fob. This article will guide you through the process of determining the correct battery size, exploring various types, and finally, the installation process.

What Size Battery for Prius Key Fob?

The Prius key fob requires a CR2032 battery, which is a small, coin-cell, 3-volt lithium battery. This battery is widely available and commonly used for small electronic devices, ensuring your key fob maintains optimal functionality. Prius models from 2010 onwards use a CR1632 battery.

Pruis Key Fob Battery Size Chart:

Prius Model Year	Battery Size
2004 – 2009	CR2032
2010 – 2015	CR1632
2016 – 2021	CR2032

Different Types of Batteries Suitable for Prius Key Fob

Lithium Batteries

Lithium batteries are a top choice for Prius key fobs. They have a high energy density, meaning they can store a lot of power in a small space, making them perfect for compact devices like key fobs.

Plus, they have a long lifespan, so replacements are infrequent. The CR1632 and CR2032 models are both lithium batteries and are commonly used in Prius key fobs.

Alkaline Batteries

Although alkaline batteries are widely available and inexpensive, they’re not typically the go-to choice for key fobs due to their lower voltage and shorter lifespan compared to lithium batteries.

They could be used in a pinch but are not the best long-term solution for your Prius key fob.

Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries might seem convenient due to their reusability, but they’re not suitable for key fobs.

The requirement for frequent charging and their inability to provide consistent voltage can hinder the proper functioning of your key fob.

Silver Oxide Batteries

Silver oxide batteries are recognized for their stable voltage and long shelf life, making them a popular choice for watches and small electronic devices.

However, they are not used in Prius key fobs mainly because they are more expensive and don’t offer significant advantages over lithium batteries in this application.

How to Identify the Right Battery Size for Prius Key Fob

Identifying the right battery size for a Prius key fob is akin to determining the appropriate food for our pet.

The Prius key fob, a small but significant gadget, necessitates the correct battery to function efficiently.

Checking the Manual

Always initiate the process by consulting the car’s manual, a comprehensive guide that accompanies your vehicle.

Much like a recipe book, it provides precise specifications, typically recommending a CR2032 battery for the key fob of a Prius, ensuring its seamless operation.

Visiting the Manufacturer’s Website

Another reliable approach is to visit the Toyota website. As the manufacturer of Prius cars, it serves as a reservoir of essential information, akin to a knowledgeable teacher assisting with homework.

By exploring the website for your specific Prius model, you can validate whether the CR2032 battery is the appropriate choice.

Consulting a Professional

At times, seeking advice from a car expert can be invaluable. Their profound knowledge about cars and related gadgets can affirm the correct battery type, much like a chef advising on a recipe!

They can verify whether CR2032 is the suitable choice and even suggest reputable sources to acquire one.

Observing the Old Battery

A direct and effective method is to examine the old battery from the key fob. The battery type is usually inscribed on it, serving as a clear indicator, much like an ingredient list on a food package. If it specifies CR2032, that’s the requisite battery.

Purchasing from a Reliable Store

When procuring the new battery, it’s paramount to choose a trusted store to guarantee the quality of the purchase, akin to selecting fresh vegetables from a reputable grocery store.

Request a CR2032 battery and ensure to validate its authenticity by inspecting the package.

Steps to Change the Battery in a Prius Key Fob

Altering the battery in your Prius key fob involves a systematic approach to ensure that the device resumes its optimal function promptly.

Opening the Key Fob

To commence, open your Prius key fob by locating a small mechanism at the bottom. Sliding this mechanism to the left and pulling on the key gives you access to the battery inside.

Removing the Old Battery

Once inside, a small casing holding the battery is visible and is secured with four screws. Utilize a small screwdriver to remove these screws and gain access to the battery.

Inserting the New Battery

With the old battery removed, insert the new battery, ensuring the right size, either CR1632 or CR2032, is used. It is crucial that the positive side, typically marked with a ‘+’, faces up while inserting into the key fob.

Securing the Key Fob

After the new battery is in place, reassemble by positioning the circuit board back to its original slot and snapping the two halves of the key fob together, ensuring they are locked securely.

Testing the New Battery

The conclusive step is to test your key fob with your car. Lock and unlock your car using the key fob to ensure its proper functionality. If the operations are successful, the Prius key fob battery has been changed successfully!

Factors Influencing Battery Selection for Prius Key Fob

When choosing a battery for your Prius key fob, several factors influence your selection to ensure optimum functionality and longevity.

Battery Life

The lifespan of a battery is pivotal. Opting for a battery with an extensive lifespan prevents the inconvenience of frequent replacements.

Voltage

Maintaining the correct voltage is essential. A battery with a different voltage can impair the functioning of your key fob.

Availability

Ensure the chosen battery is easily available in local stores or online, enabling quick replacements when necessary.

Price

While selecting a quality product is crucial, the cost of the battery should also be considered. Comparing prices from different brands aids in making an informed decision.

Brand Reliability

Opting for a reliable brand known for quality assures that the battery will perform well and have a longer lifespan.

Warranty and Customer Support

Verify if there’s warranty or customer support available for the chosen battery, providing assistance if any issues arise with the battery.

Environmental Considerations

Lastly, give preference to environmentally friendly options. Selecting a recyclable battery or one made from eco-friendly materials minimizes your carbon footprint.

Maximizing the Longevity of Your Prius Key Fob Battery

Preserving the life of your Prius key fob battery can be achieved by considering a few essential care and storage tips.

Avoid Exposure to High Temperatures

High temperatures can hasten the loss of charge in batteries. Hence, avoid exposing your key fob to direct sunlight or leaving it in hot cars.

Remove the Battery When Not in Use

For extended periods of non-use, removing the battery from the key fob can avert unnecessary power drain and prolong the battery’s life.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Moisture can be detrimental to batteries, much like high temperatures. Therefore, storing your key fob in a cool, dry environment is essential when it’s not in use.

Avoid Mixing Old and New Batteries

When your key fob requires more than one battery, always replace all batteries simultaneously to avoid power imbalances that can decrease battery life.

Turn Off the Key Fob When Not in Use

Leveraging power-saving mode, available in some key fobs, reduces power consumption and can contribute to extending battery life.

FAQs

Conclusion

Identifying and replacing the battery in your Prius key fob is relatively simple when you understand the required battery type and replacement process.

Regular maintenance can amplify its life and maintain the optimal functionality of your key fob.