Key Fob Not Working high urgency

2023 Toyota Camry Key Fob Not Working? Quick Fixes, Costs, and Next Steps

If your 2023 Toyota Camry key fob suddenly won’t lock/unlock or the car won’t start with push-button start, the cause is often a weak fob battery or signal interference. The good news: you can usually get back on the road quickly using the mechanical key and the Camry’s backup start method.

Understanding Your Situation

The Camry’s Smart Key system relies on a small coin-cell battery and a short-range radio signal. When the battery is weak, the fob is damaged, or radio interference is present, the car may not detect the fob for unlocking or starting—even though the vehicle itself is fine.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door (slide the release on the fob to pull out the key; insert it into the hidden key cylinder on the driver door handle).
  2. Try the backup start method: hold the Toyota emblem side of the fob directly against the START/STOP button and press the brake, then press START. (This allows the car to read the fob even with a weak battery.)
  3. Replace the key fob battery with a CR2032 coin cell (common for Camry Smart Keys). After replacement, test lock/unlock and starting from outside the car.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (DIY or retail)

Cost: $5-$20 Time: Same day

Open the fob case, replace the coin-cell battery (commonly CR2032), and confirm the battery is installed with correct polarity. This resolves most intermittent or sudden failures.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • Often fixes weak range and no-start detection issues
âś— Cons:
  • Won’t help if the fob is water-damaged or internally broken
  • Using the wrong battery type or installing it incorrectly can waste time

Use a locksmith for testing and replacement fob programming

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day / 1-3 days (if parts must be ordered)

A mobile automotive locksmith can test your existing fob, check for signal output, and supply/program a replacement smart key if needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service in many areas
  • Often less expensive than dealership replacement
âś— Cons:
  • Quality varies—ensure they are experienced with Toyota Smart Key systems
  • Aftermarket fobs may have inconsistent range or durability

Dealer diagnosis and OEM smart key replacement

Cost: $300-$700 Time: Same day / 1-7 days (depending on key availability)

Toyota dealer confirms the issue (fob, vehicle antenna, Smart Key system, or security-related fault) and provides an OEM replacement fob with programming.

âś“ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level diagnostics
  • Best option if there’s a vehicle-side Smart Key/immobilizer issue
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the highest cost
  • May require appointment and proof of ownership

Address interference or vehicle-side issues (Smart Key settings, 12V battery, antenna)

Cost: $0-$250 (diagnosis) / $200-$900+ (repairs vary) Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If the fob works sometimes or only in certain locations, the issue may be RF interference, Smart Key being disabled in vehicle settings, a weak 12V battery, or a problem with the door handle/inside antennas. Diagnosis may be needed.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fixes root causes when a new fob battery doesn’t help
  • Can prevent repeat failures
âś— Cons:
  • Hard to confirm without testing
  • Costs vary widely depending on the failed component

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t keep repeatedly pressing the START/STOP button without holding the fob to the button—use the backup start method to avoid unnecessary drain and frustration.

✕ Don’t pry the fob open with excessive force or metal tools that can crack the case or damage the circuit board; use a plastic pry tool if possible.

✕ Don’t assume it’s always the fob—if the car’s 12V battery is weak or Smart Key is disabled, replacing the fob may not solve the problem.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start my 2023 Toyota Camry if the key fob battery is dead?

Hold the Toyota emblem side of the fob directly against the START/STOP button, press and hold the brake pedal, then press START. The car can read the fob’s transponder at close range even if the fob battery is weak or dead.

What battery does a 2023 Toyota Camry key fob use?

Most 2023 Camry Smart Key fobs use a CR2032 coin-cell battery. Confirm by checking the marking on your existing battery once the fob is opened.

My key fob works up close but not from far away—what does that mean?

That’s a classic sign of a weakening fob battery, though interference or internal fob damage can also reduce range. Replace the battery first, then retest in a different location.

Can I unlock the Camry if the fob won’t work at all?

Yes. Slide the release on the fob to remove the mechanical key, then use the hidden key cylinder on the driver’s door handle to unlock the car.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after changing the battery?

Typically no. A battery change should not erase programming on a Toyota Smart Key. If the fob still doesn’t work after a new battery, the fob may be damaged or the issue may be vehicle-side.

Why does my Camry say “Key Not Detected” when the fob is inside?

Common causes include a weak fob battery, the fob being blocked by metal objects or other electronics, interference, or a weak vehicle 12V battery. Try the backup start method and replace the fob battery first.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re stranded or the car won’t start, use the mechanical key to enter and the backup start method (holding the fob to the START/STOP button). If the issue is intermittent, replace the fob battery soon—unreliable detection can leave you unable to start the vehicle at the worst time.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Toyota Camry.

View Camry Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04