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Smart Key Latch Problem

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by Royden, Jan 22, 2015.

  1. Royden

    Royden New Member

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    I need to replace the battery on my Smart Key but the release latch is frozen and will not slide. So I cannot remove the mechanical key or slide the cover off.

    The indentation/groove next to the release latch had some dirt and gunk in it that I though was maybe preventing it from sliding so I scraped out the dirt as much as possible but the latch still won't slide.

    Any suggestions welcome. Thanks!
     
    #1 Royden, Jan 22, 2015
  2. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Use a little flathead screwdriver, it'll give you some leverage. Don't break a nail!
     
    #2 JC91006, Jan 22, 2015
  3. Royden

    Royden New Member

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    I tried the thumbnail first and then the screwdriver but neither worked. The release latch is really frozen tight and will not move at all. :(
     
    #3 Royden, Jan 22, 2015
  4. brucebee

    brucebee Junior Member

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    squirt some of your favorite spraylube gingerly around opening and pry/pray
     
    #4 brucebee, Jan 22, 2015
  5. CooCooCaChoo

    CooCooCaChoo Senior Member

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    If all else fails, you may have to replace it before it becomes completely dead.
     
    #5 CooCooCaChoo, Jan 22, 2015
  6. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    maybe try pressing on the key head as you slide it, or pushing the case in toward the closed position. might be catching. you'll need four hands.:cool:
     
    #6 bisco, Jan 22, 2015
  7. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    You can also squirt a little WD40 on the slider and lubricate it.
     
    #7 JC91006, Jan 22, 2015
    Avi's Advanced Automotive likes this.
  8. stonerider

    stonerider Member

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    Did you check the 12v battery? [ducks his head]
     
    #8 stonerider, Jan 23, 2015
    frodoz737, Avi's Advanced Automotive and bisco like this.
  9. Royden

    Royden New Member

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    The WD40 did not work but I was able to force the sliding latch open by pushing a small screwdriver into the hole in the side of the Smart Key.

    Good news is that I was able to replace the key battery.

    Bad news is that the sliding latch is now stuck in the open position and will not close. So the back cover and mechanical key are not held in place.

    My question now is if there is anyone who sells a replacement back cover for a 2006 Prius Smart Key. I found people who sell the entire Smart Key but all I need is the back cover.
     
    #9 Royden, Feb 3, 2015
  10. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    maybe look for a complete unit on ebay for cheap? or ask dealer if they can order the case.
     
    #10 bisco, Feb 3, 2015
  11. Royden

    Royden New Member

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    Called the dealer and they do not offer the case. Best thing would be to salvage the back cover off a non-functioning Smart Key - lowest price on Ebay is $60 so far.

    If anyone out there has a non-functioning Smart Key for sale, let me know.

    Is there a forum for buying/selling parts? Could I change the title of this post to "Looking for smart key cover" or just start another post with that title? Not sure what is proper etiquette.
     
    #11 Royden, Feb 3, 2015
  12. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    maybe try 'private sales'? what if you put a tiny dab of strategically placed superglue, do you think it would come apart next time you need a battery?
     
    #12 bisco, Feb 3, 2015
  13. Avi's Advanced Automotive

    Avi's Advanced Automotive Independent hybrid repair shop

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    Go back to the dealer and order part number 89751-47010, should be $13.10. When it comes in, show it to the person who told you it isn't sold separately and ask them Wth?

    Avi
     
    #13 Avi's Advanced Automotive, Feb 3, 2015
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  14. Royden

    Royden New Member

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    Thanks, Avi. I will do that.
     
    #14 Royden, Feb 3, 2015
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