How to change battery in sealed keyless remote

[nicole72]

Hi
just thought I'd share some info. My keyless remote "died" and after getting quotes between $100 and $180 to replace the remote (as i was told battery can't be replaced) i figured it didn't really matter if I wrecked my existing remote by trying.

anyway, the battery is a pretty standard one. My 2003 Camry uses a typical CR2032 which is available from any chemist for around $3 (a saving of up to $177 on replacement remote!!)

Now this isn't going to look pretty but for me it's just a car and I don't care about the aesthetics of the remote.

So grab a hacksaw or similar sharp and thin bladed implement , and simply saw around the entire remote in the groove where the two parts are joined together. Then, use a very small phillips head screw driver and/or thin knife to prise the two pieces apart. ( a bit like shucking an oyster, work your way all around).

voila the battery is exposed and is attached to a metal plate. again use the tiny phillips head screwdriver to work the metal plate loose and remover battery. Put in the new one and test it works. you may need to sticky tape the battery into place. If yes, put it all back together and sticky tape the two parts together again. You could super glue but then it will be harder to get apart next time.

Anyway, stoked to have saved myself $177 dollars - now i can get something i see more value in - shoes, dress, hair etc

Happy if this helps one other person to avoid the exorbitant rip off that is made by sealing these remotes. Oh how I hate a captive market!!