2012–2013 XU40 (2nd generation, final years)
2012–2013 Toyota Highlander Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob takes a CR2032 (smart key and remote-head key) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
Last verified
Quick answer
The 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob takes a CR2032 (smart key and remote-head key) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob battery
- Pry the fob open gently at the seam with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, working around the edge. Many fobs have a hidden release slot near the key ring or emergency-key blade.
- Note the battery orientation (usually positive side up) before removing the old cell.
- Avoid touching the new battery's faces with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten its life.
- If the fob doesn't work after replacement, check that the battery is seated fully and the contacts weren't bent. Most vehicles do not need re-pairing after a battery change.
Which Toyota Highlander model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Toyota Highlander built from 2012 through 2013 — the XU40 (2nd generation, final years), mid-size 3-row crossover suv. Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander
- 2012Carryover of the 2011 facelift (revised fascia, PSX26W fog lamps). Towing: 5,000 lbs V6 with factory tow prep (3,500 without), 1,500 lbs 2.7L, 3,500 lbs hybrid
- 2013Final XU40 year; subject of the 14V-148 second-row seat recall
2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob take?
- A single CR2032 (smart key and remote-head key) coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob?
- This fob takes a CR2032 (smart key and remote-head key), so start there. The two cells share a 20 mm diameter but differ in thickness, and the thicker one does not always seat in a housing built for the thinner.
How do you open a 2012–2013 Toyota Highlander key fob?
- Slide out the mechanical emergency key first, which usually releases a catch, then part the halves with a plastic pry tool or a coin wrapped in tape. A screwdriver will mark the case and can crack the seam.
Sources
- Toyota technical data, Highlander XU40 fluids & capacities (toyota-club.net)
- Toyota TrueStart battery application chart (toyotapartsandservice.com)
- Toyota Genuine spark plug application chart (toyotapartsandservice.com)
- NHTSA recall 14V-148, second row seat lock
- TirePressure.org, 2013 Toyota Highlander placard pressures
- fueleconomy.gov, 2013 Highlander EPA ratings
- XenonPro, 2011–2013 Highlander bulb size chart
- AutoZone, 2013 Highlander wiper blade fitment (26/20)