How to Open a Toyota, Scion or Lexus with a Dead Key Fob
Retrieving the mechanical key
Four key fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) versions may be seen in Toyota, Lexus and Scion models. The earliest version (left), used only in the Lexus LS for a few years, the mechanical key remains attached to the key fob. Pull the latch found on top of the fob. At the same time, slide the lever on the side upward until the key blade is fully exposed.
The mechanical key is removed from the remaining fob styles. Slide the catch on the top of most Lexus key fobs, or on the side of Toyota and Scion models. Some later Lexus models use this key as well. Pull the key ring from the fob while the catch is slid to one side to remove the emergency or mechanical key blade.
A slight variation in even later Lexus models has the slide lever on the top of the key ring end, but not on the mechanical key itself. Slide the lever and pull the key ring away to retrieve the mechanical key.
Getting Inside
On some models, the lock cylinder or keyhole at the back of the door handle will be visible. If so, use the key blade to unlock the door.
If the keyhole is not visible, insert the mechanical key into the slot at the base of the door lock cover located near the back of the driver’s door handle and lift slightly to pry away the lock cover and expose the lock cylinder. If you are in the dark, you may need to feel for the slot. Yes, you must pry off a piece of the car. Insert the key blade into the now-exposed lock cylinder to operate. The key can only be inserted in one direction, so turn the key over and try again if it does not go in the first time.
If you do not see a seam or a keyhole, you have the latest Lexus models, the NX, UX and RC as well as RX models built after 2016. This door handle style has since been incorporated into ES and LS models. Pull the driver’s door handle out as shown in the image to expose the keyhole. Insert the mechanical key and turn and you’re in. There is only a small amount of space, so actually turning the key can be a chore.
If you are fortunate enough to own the Lexus LC models, the door handles are flush to the body. Press the front of the driver’s door handle inwards, then pull the rear of the handle out. The key hole is then exposed behind the rear portion of the handle. As above, insert the key and turn and you’re in.
Finally, with the re-introduced Toyota Supra in 2020 come open and start features clearly taken from BMW! The key hole is hiding behind an oval shaped cover at the back of the driver’s door handle. Pull the door handle out and feel for a metal clip is behind the cap and give it a push outward.
The cap will practically fly off revealing the key cylinder. You are still removing a piece of your car and its still ok! Let go of the handle and use the mechanical key to unlock the door using the key cylinder that is now visible through the handle and you’ll be inside.
New in 2023, Lexus NX, RX, RZ and TX feature a rectangular pry off cover (right) at the back of the driver’s door handle. Slip a credit card or some equivalent into a gap at the front of the cover and pry the cover outward. When the cover clears the handle, push it from the rear to remove it fully. The key hole will then be exposed.
Click here for video help with these models and key fobs.
Models covered include the Lexus CT, ES, GS, GX, IS, LS, LX, NX, RC, RX, RZ, TX, UX, and Toyota FR-S, iA, iM, tC, 4Runner, Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Mirai, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Yaris, 86, C-HR, Supra, and Prius.
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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY