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How do I address a malfunctioning key fob in a 2020 Toyota Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/How do I address a malfunctioning key fob in a 2020 Toyota Highlander?

How do I address a malfunctioning key fob in a 2020 Toyota Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
30 minutes
Time
easy
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
3 min read
554 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and repair a malfunctioning key fob in your 2020 Toyota Highlander with step-by-step instructions.

Affected Component
key fob
Estimated Time
30 minutes

Symptoms

  • •Inability to Lock/Unlock Doors
  • •Engine Start Failure
  • •Weak Signal
  • •No Response

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

Solution

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Flathead Screwdriver
  • •CR2032 Battery
  • •Multimeter

Additional Information

Affected Component
key fob
Estimated Time
30 minutes
Difficulty
easy
Severity
medium
Tools Required
3 items

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Addressing a Malfunctioning Key Fob in a 2020 Toyota Highlander

Step 1: Visual Inspection
  • Check for Physical Damage: Inspect the key fob for cracks, broken buttons, or water damage.
  • Battery Inspection: Look for corrosion on the battery terminals and ensure the battery cover is secure.
Step 2: Battery Check
  • Battery Type: Confirm the key fob uses a CR2032 battery, which is standard for many Toyota key fobs.
  • Battery Replacement: If the fob is unresponsive, replace the battery.
    • Tools Required: Small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to pry open the fob.
Step 3: Test the Functionality
  • After replacing the battery, test the fob by pressing the buttons while standing close to the vehicle.
Tools Required
  • Flathead Screwdriver: For opening the key fob case.
  • CR2032 Battery: Replacement battery for the key fob.
  • Multimeter: Optional, for testing battery voltage (should be around 3V for a good battery).
Repair Instructions
Step 1: Open the Key Fob
  1. Locate the Seam: Find the seam between the two halves of the key fob.
  2. Pry Open: Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the fob open, starting at one end and working your way around.
Step 2: Replace the Battery
  1. Remove Old Battery: Take out the old CR2032 battery, noting its orientation (positive side should be facing up).
  2. Install New Battery: Insert the new CR2032 battery in the same orientation as the old one.
Step 3: Reassemble the Key Fob
  1. Align Halves: Carefully align the two halves of the fob.
  2. Snap Together: Press them together until you hear a click indicating they are securely closed.
Step 4: Reprogram the Key Fob (if necessary)

If the key fob still does not work after a battery replacement, it may need to be reprogrammed.

Reprogramming Steps

  1. Get Inside Vehicle: Ensure all doors are closed.
  2. Insert Key: Insert the key into the ignition.
  3. Turn On/Off: Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine, then back to "OFF" five times within 10 seconds. The doors will lock and unlock to indicate the vehicle is in programming mode.
  4. Press Lock Button: Press and hold the lock button on the key fob for one second.
  5. Turn Off Ignition: Turn the ignition back to the "OFF" position. The doors will lock and unlock again to indicate successful programming.
  6. Test the Key Fob: Test the key fob functions to ensure it is operating correctly.
Conclusion

If after these steps the key fob still does not operate correctly, there may be an issue with the vehicle’s body control module or the key fob itself may be defective. In such cases, it is advisable to consult with a professional automotive technician or a Toyota dealership for further diagnosis and assistance.