How To Replace Your Prius Key Battery: Easy DIY Steps For A Remote Change [Updated On- 2025]

To replace the key fob battery for your 2017 Toyota Prius, use a screwdriver to open the fob. Take out the old battery, which is a CR2032, and insert the new one with the positive side facing outward. Check your owner’s manual for more details. Ensure the battery is secure before testing the fob.

After securing the new battery, snap the two halves of the fob back together until you hear a click. Test your remote to confirm that it operates correctly. If it doesn’t work, double-check the battery orientation.

In case you need further assistance, maintaining your Prius key fob involves more than just battery replacement. At this point, you may want to consider additional tips for caring for your key fob. Understanding these details will enhance your experience with your Prius and ensure seamless functionality.

# Table of Contents

Why is it Important to Replace Your 2017 Prius Key Battery?

Replacing the key battery in your 2017 Prius is important to ensure that your key functions correctly. A depleted battery can prevent you from unlocking your doors or starting your vehicle.

According to Toyota, the manufacturer of the Prius, key fob batteries can typically last between three to five years, depending on usage. Regular maintenance, including battery replacement, helps maintain the performance and reliability of your key fob.

The need to replace the key battery arises from the fact that batteries have a limited lifespan. Key fobs use lithium batteries, which can weaken over time due to usage patterns like frequent locking and unlocking. When the battery weakens, you may experience intermittent connectivity issues or complete failure of the key fob to operate.

The key fob operates using radio frequency signals to communicate with your vehicle. When you press a button, the key fob transmits a signal to the car’s receiver. If the battery is low, the signal may not be strong enough to reach the receiver, causing the key fob to fail.

Several factors contribute to battery depletion. High usage, exposure to extreme temperatures, and poor storage conditions can all accelerate battery wear. For instance, if you frequently use your key fob or leave it in a hot car for long periods, the battery is likely to drain faster.

In conclusion, replacing your 2017 Prius key battery is essential for reliable vehicle access and operation. Regularly checking your key fob battery can prevent inconvenient situations, like being unable to start your car due to a dead battery.

How Can You Tell If Your 2017 Prius Key Fob Battery is Dying?

You can tell if your 2017 Prius key fob battery is dying by observing symptoms such as a weak signal, needing to press buttons multiple times, and the key fob not functioning at all.

Weak signal: If you notice that you have to stand closer to your vehicle to unlock or start it, the battery may be losing power. This signal strength diminishes as the battery ages.
Multiple button presses: If you find that you must press the lock or unlock buttons several times before the key fob works, this is an indicator that the battery is weak. A functioning key fob should respond with a single press.
Complete failure: If the key fob no longer works, even after several attempts, the battery is likely dead. This means you will not be able to unlock the car or start the engine using the key fob.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to replace the key fob battery promptly to avoid becoming locked out of your vehicle.

What Tools Are Necessary for Changing a 2017 Prius Key Battery?

To change the key battery in a 2017 Prius, you need a small flathead screwdriver and a replacement battery (CR2032).

Necessary Tools:
1. Small flathead screwdriver
2. Replacement battery (CR2032)

Transitioning to the next section, let’s explore the relevance and function of each necessary tool in detail.

Small Flathead Screwdriver: A small flathead screwdriver is essential for prying open the key fob cover. This tool allows you to safely separate the two halves of the key without damaging it. Selecting the right size prevents slips that could scratch the fob.
Replacement Battery (CR2032): The CR2032 battery is the specific battery type needed for the 2017 Prius key fob. This lithium coin cell battery is widely available in stores and online. It typically has a voltage of 3 volts and a diameter of 20mm. Replacing an old battery with a fresh CR2032 ensures that your key fob functions reliably. Most users report that this battery lasts for several years under normal use conditions.

In summary, using the correct tools enhances the battery replacement process for the 2017 Prius key.

How Do You Open the 2017 Prius Key Fob Safely?

To open the 2017 Prius key fob safely, you need to locate the seam, use a flathead screwdriver, and carefully pry it apart.

First, identify the seam. The seam runs along the edge of the key fob. It separates the two halves of the fob. Knowing its location helps you avoid damaging the interior components.

Next, gather a flathead screwdriver. This tool should have a thin blade to fit into the seam easily. A metal or plastic screwdriver works; however, metal may scratch the surface.

Insert the screwdriver into the seam gently. Apply light pressure as you slide the blade into the gap. This action will help separate the two halves without excessive force. Avoid twisting the screwdriver too hard, as this could break the plastic.

Apply gentle, even pressure while prying the fob apart. Start at one end and slowly move along the seam. This technique prevents stress on the internal components.

Once you have opened the fob, take care of any internal parts you see. Avoid touching any circuit boards or fragile components. Making this extra effort helps maintain the fob’s functionality.

Finally, when replacing the battery, ensure the new battery is oriented correctly. Insert it into the designated slot. After replacing the battery, align the fob halves and press them back together until you hear a click. This sound indicates that it is securely closed. Following these steps ensures the key fob operates efficiently without damage.

What Steps Are Involved in Removing the Old Battery from a 2017 Prius Key Fob?

To remove the old battery from a 2017 Prius key fob, follow these steps:

Locate the small button on the back of the key fob.
Press the button to release the mechanical key.
Use the mechanical key to gently pry open the key fob case.
Remove the old battery, noting the orientation.
Insert the new battery in the same orientation.
Snap the key fob case back together.
Reinsert the mechanical key.

These steps are straightforward, but opinions may vary on the best practices for ensuring the process goes smoothly. Some users may suggest using a small tool to assist with opening the fob, while others recommend being cautious with the fob to avoid damage. Additionally, battery type can vary slightly, with some preferring a specific brand for reliability.

The following detailed explanations will clarify each step involved in removing the old battery from a 2017 Prius key fob.

Locate the small button on the back of the key fob: The first step involves finding the release button, which is often marked. This button allows for the removal of the mechanical key from the fob, unlocking the case for access.
Press the button to release the mechanical key: Pressing the button activates the release mechanism. This step is critical as the mechanical key is essential for opening the fob’s case without causing damage.
Use the mechanical key to gently pry open the key fob case: Once the mechanical key is released, it can be inserted into the groove along the edge of the fob. Gently twisting the key assists in separating the two halves of the fob.
Remove the old battery, noting the orientation: After opening the fob, the old battery will be visible. Make sure to observe the battery’s orientation (positive and negative sides) before removal. This attention to detail is vital for the proper installation of the new battery.
Insert the new battery in the same orientation: Place the new battery into the compartment with the positive and negative sides matching the previous orientation. Inserting it incorrectly can lead to the fob not functioning properly.
Snap the key fob case back together: After the new battery is in place, align the halves of the fob. Apply gentle pressure until you hear a click, confirming the fob is securely closed.
Reinsert the mechanical key: This final step completes the process. The mechanical key can be pushed back into its slot. Properly securing it ensures that you have a fully functional key fob ready for use.

How Can You Install the New Battery Properly in Your 2017 Prius Key Fob?

To install the new battery properly in your 2017 Prius key fob, first, remove the key fob cover, replace the old battery with a new one, and finally reassemble the key fob. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a successful replacement:

Remove the key fob cover:
– Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob at the seam.
– Be cautious to avoid damaging the plastic cover during this process.
Replace the old battery:
– Identify the old battery inside the fob. The 2017 Prius key fob typically uses a CR2032 lithium battery.
– Carefully slide the old battery out of its compartment. You can use your fingers or the screwdriver to assist.
– Insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up. This orientation is crucial for the key fob to function properly.
Reassemble the key fob:
– Align the two halves of the key fob back together.
– Press them firmly until you hear a clicking sound, indicating that the fob is securely closed.
– Test the key fob by pressing any button to ensure that it operates correctly.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Prius key fob is equipped with a fresh battery and ready for use again.

What Steps Should You Take to Reassemble the Key Fob After Battery Replacement?

To reassemble the key fob after replacing the battery, follow these steps for proper assembly.

Align the key fob halves.
Insert any necessary retaining clips or tabs.
Press the halves together firmly.
Test the key fob buttons for functionality.

Now, let’s explore the detailed steps for reassembling the key fob.

Align the Key Fob Halves: Aligning the key fob halves is critical for ensuring that the components fit together correctly. Each half should match perfectly without gaps. Misalignment can lead to functionality issues or damage during reassembly. A close inspection can help to avoid this problem.
Insert Any Necessary Retaining Clips or Tabs: After aligning the halves, check for any retaining clips or tabs that need to be inserted. Some key fobs use these clips to hold the halves together securely. These clips are often unique to specific models, so be sure to refer to the key fob instructions or diagrams if available.
Press the Halves Together Firmly: Once all clips or tabs are in place, press the two halves together firmly. This action seals the key fob and ensures that the new battery is properly connected. Apply even pressure around the entire perimeter to avoid breaking any plastic components.
Test the Key Fob Buttons for Functionality: After reassembly, check that the buttons work as intended. Press each button to verify that they operate the lock, unlock, and panic features. If the buttons do not respond, it may indicate improper assembly or a faulty battery.

Following these steps can help ensure your key fob is reassembled correctly after battery replacement.

How Can You Test Whether Your New Battery is Functioning in the 2017 Prius Key Fob?

To test whether your new battery is functioning in the 2017 Prius key fob, you can follow these simple methods: check the key fob’s operation, use a lithium battery tester, or observe the remote’s responsiveness.

First, check the key fob’s operation. This method helps determine if the battery is correctly installed and functioning:
– Press the lock or unlock button on the key fob.
– Stand close to the car for better transmission.
– If the doors lock or unlock, the battery is functioning.

Second, use a lithium battery tester. This tool helps assess the battery voltage. The steps include:
– Obtain a battery tester designed for lithium batteries.
– Insert the new battery into the tester according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Check the voltage reading. A healthy lithium battery should measure between 3.0 and 3.3 volts.

Third, observe the remote’s responsiveness. This method assesses overall performance:
– Stand outside the vehicle and press buttons on the fob.
– Note the response time for locking and unlocking; there should be a prompt response.
– If there is a significant delay or no response, the battery may not be functioning well.

If none of these tests show that the key fob is operating correctly, consider re-installing the battery. Ensure the correct polarity and fit. If the problem persists, the battery might be faulty, or the key fob could require further troubleshooting.

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