Replacing a Toyota Key
There are several options in the event that you find that your Toyota key fob is damaged. A service center can cut a brand new key for you, which can save you money when the internal electronics are working fine.
If the case is damaged, it will need to be replaced. If the case still looks like it is in good condition, you can attempt to open it using the key hidden in the case or a thin pry-tool at the notch that is visible. Then, gently lift the circuit board until you can see the battery.
Keys damaged or lost
When you lose your Toyota key, or if the key fob is damaged it can be extremely stressful. If you require a replacement for your standard metal key or a more advanced remote key fob, we can offer the best solution for you.
Toyota offers some of the most sophisticated keys for cars on the market. Transponder chips communicate with the vehicle and stop unauthorised starting. They also lock the engine if the incorrect key is used. They also allow you to lock and unlock the vehicle remotely and start it. This extra security comes with a price. Replacing a damaged or lost Toyota key could cost hundreds of dollars.
The blade of your Toyota key will inform you whether it is equipped with transponders. The key is equipped with a chip if it has tiny dimples or dots on one side or an 'H" or "G" marking. The key will not be marked or have a big bump at the top if it's not marked.
The cost of replacing a conventional metal key is usually less than $50. The cost of key fobs that have a transponder chip is greater, since they require programming to communicate with the vehicle's system to disable it. Dealerships can have machines that cost between $150 and $250 to use. The key must also be laser-programmed and cut.
We can order you an additional key fob and have it ready for pick-up at our Hilton Head location. The price of the replacement may vary based on the kind of discounts on parts we have on hand and the kind of key fob you require. If your key fob case has been damaged but the electronics inside are working, we can order an additional case to store the electronic components. If your fob is fully rained out or damaged beyond repair, you'll need a complete key replacement.
Smart Keys
Smart keys can allow you to start your Toyota without ever having to take your keys from your pocket or purse. Smart keys let you save settings for different drivers and open windows or sunroofs remotely. They could also have an option that allows you to set limits on speed for your teenager when they are driving.
To use your smart key, you will have to be within 10 feet of the vehicle. When you're close enough your vehicle will turn on the courtesy lights and open the passenger or driver door. You can then press the button on the key fob to unlock the trunk, too. A lot of modern smart keys come with a telescoping blade that can accommodate different hand sizes and offer greater flexibility when it comes to reaching the ignition and lock buttons.
Like traditional car keys, the smart key fob is equipped with a transponder chip that transmits an encrypted signal each time you press the lock or unlock buttons. It's designed to deter thieves from stealing or hot-wiring your vehicle by disabling the engine immobilizer. However, there are some limitations to this technology. A skilled criminal can utilize a scanner to find the code, and then send it to a key fob.
A smart key that is more recent, such as the Mercedes-Benz SmartKey, uses a unique technology known as rolling codes. When you put the key in the ignition, a computer inside the vehicle verifies the unique code before starting the engine. This helps to prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle as it's nearly impossible for a scanner to record and send the same code repeatedly.
Your smart key may be dead if it fails to respond to the lock and unlock buttons. The circuit board is easily removed from the majority of fobs to replace the battery. Take a photo of the battery that was used and make a note where the new battery will go inside the case. This will help you assemble it correctly. Most Toyota models are powered by a CR2032 battery that is available in Freehold at any local shop.
Key Fob Battery Replacement
The process of replacing the battery in your key fob isn't nearly as difficult or time-consuming as it might seem. The process is fairly straightforward, and you can find replacement batteries at any hardware store or big-box retailers. You can purchase them online. A new battery is not only affordable, but it will also restore the original function of your key fob.
The first step is to remove the metal key. A small metal button is typically located just above the key area of the fob. Press this to pull out the key. Then, disassemble the fob. You can do this by pressing the fob with a small notch that resembles like a little keyhole, or by inserting a flat tool through the smallest opening on the fob. After you've divided the fob into two pieces that is, the front and the back, you can slide a tool in the notch or tiny hole to access the battery compartment.
Examine the battery that is most likely silver and has the shape of a circle. It will have a mark on it that identifies the type of battery you need to replace it with. After you get a new battery, remove the old one from its container and replace it with the new. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of your battery. They are very receptive to fingerprints and may reduce battery life.
Then, insert the key fob's case. If you're cautious, you shouldn't have to force it back into position. If it doesn't snap into position, gently press around the edges of the frame to separate it. Reattach the key in the metal and switch it on to test the fob. Once everything's reassembled the key fob should be as good as new. If the key isn't working you should contact Toyota of Irving for assistance. Once key toyota provide the required photo identification and proof of ownership, we can help you replace the key fob or transponder chip. We can even help you order a new key fob if the original is damaged or has been lost.
Key Fob Case Replacement
While Toyota key fobs are less likely to lose than normal keys, you could be a bit frightened when they disappear during your Belton and Killeen commute. The replacement of the case on your Toyota key fob is straightforward, but replacing the internal electronics requires special knowledge and experience. Fortunately our team at Don Ringler Toyota can provide you with the information you require to make a decision.
The first step is to find the Toyota key fob and then determine whether the case has been damaged or not. If the key fob has been damaged to the point of being useless, you will have to replace it by an authorized dealer to have the transponder as well as other electronic devices programmed in your car. This is more involved than replacing a key fob on its own. You'll need provide a photo ID, proof of ownership and the VIN of your car.
If your key fob is damaged only minor damage, you might still be able to use its electronics. It's dependent on the type of damage, for instance water or more serious physical damage. In general, if the hidden key is not damaged, you can have a new one cut at an Toyota service center and then use it.
Open the case of your key fob with an instrument that is flat such as a small screwdriver. Insert it into an opening or notch. Once you have opened the case, lift the circuit board (if it is necessary) to reveal the battery inside. Be careful not to push the case open because this could cause the electronic components to break. Carefully remove the old battery, and take note of how it sits in the case to ensure you can replace the battery properly.
Close the case of your key fob after replacing the battery and test it. If you are unable get your key fob to function, contact our service department and we will be happy to help. Make sure you bring your Toyota key code number, which you can get by presenting your driver's license and your vehicle's registration at our service department.