How to Deactivate Your Toyota Smart Key: Old & New Models Solutions
Updated: 16 Sep 2024
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Shh, come close: let me tell you a secret. Do you want to know the key to safety and energy efficiency while using your Toyota’s Smart Key System? I heard your loud YES.
I won’t bother you by asking “how to deactivate the Toyota smart key” because our thorough research suggests several reasons why you might want to disable it.
So allow me to take you through deactivating the Smart Key system, whether it’s a temporary or permanent fix.
Let’s locate the deactivation switch together, no matter which Toyota model you hold because this guide is a compass for deactivating the critical system in various Toyota models.
What is Toyota’s Smart Key System?
Toyota’s Smart Key System is a component in your vehicle that allows for keyless entry. It also allows a push-button start, adding convenience to the vehicle’s operation. No matter how much this system is. Still, there are times when you need to deactivate your Toyota smart key, for instance:
- Security concerns (e.g., to prevent keyless car theft).
- Energy efficiency (e.g., to conserve the critical fob’s battery during long-term storage).
- Functionality issues (e.g., if the essential fob malfunctions or has a dead battery).
How to Deactivate Toyota’s Smart Key System?
To answer this question, there are several methods for deactivating the Smart Key system in your Toyota vehicle. These methods vary depending on your vehicle model and year.
General Steps to Deactivate Toyota’s Different Models
1. Newer Toyota Models (<15 years old)
- Hold the Toyota logo on the key fob up to the “ENGINE START STOP” button (until you hear a sound typically beep)
- There will be a temporary disability of the Smart Key system will occur
- Now, you can start the car even if the key fob is not working.
2. Older Toyota Models (>15 years old)
- Press the physical deactivation switch (typically located below the steering wheel)
- After this press, the system will be deactivated
Specific Methods for Older Models
1. 2007 Toyota Prius
- Locate the deactivation switch (usually under the dashboard)
- Press it
- Smart Key system will be disabled
2. 2000 Toyota Sienna
- Find the switch under the steering wheel
- Press it and get the system smart key deactivated
Watch this quick video tutorial to easily follow along with the steps for deactivating your Toyota Smart Key.
Where is the Toyota Smart Key Deactivation Switch Located?
The answer is straightforward: the location of the deactivation switch is different for different Toyota models. Here’s the summary of smart key deactivation switch locations across different Toyota Models:
Toyota Deactivation Switch Locations
| Model | Deactivation Switch Location | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Camry | Near the dashboard, under the steering wheel | 2012-2013, 2020 |
| Corolla | Near the steering wheel or dashboard | All |
| Highlander | Under the steering column (often hidden) | 2011, 2020 |
| RAV4 (2009) | Under the dashboard, near the steering wheel | 2009 |
| RAV4 (2020) | Key fob method | Key fob method |
| Yaris (including Hybrid) | Near ignition or under the steering wheel | All |
In case you are looking for the Deactivation Switch Location in Toyota Minivans and SUVs, you can check in the below table:
Deactivation Switch Location in Toyota Minivans and SUVs
| Model | Deactivation Switch Location | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Prius (2007) | Near the steering wheel or dashboard | All |
| Toyota Sequoia | Near the steering wheel or dashboard | All |
| Toyota Sienna (2000) | Near the steering wheel or dashboard | All |
| Toyota Tacoma | Near the steering wheel or dashboard | All |
Additional Tips for Managing Toyota Smart Key System
To preserve the battery life of your key fob:
- Store the fob away from the vehicle when not in use
- Deactivate the Smart Key when the car is in long-term storage
- Do a regular inspection of the battery in your key fob (replace it when needed)
- Avoid key fob to get exposure from extreme temperatures or moisture
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the Toyota Smart Key Deactivation Switch?
You can usually find the switch near the steering wheel or dashboard. The deactivation switch can also be located on the key fob itself for newer models.
Does Every Toyota Model Have a Smart Key Deactivation Switch?
Not all Toyota models have a physical deactivation switch.
A common pattern observed through user discussion is that newer models may have their switch for deactivation via the key fob method. Compared, older models often have a physical switch under the steering wheel.
How to Disable a Smart Key in Older Toyota Models (e.g., 2000 Sienna)?
If your vehicle has a physical deactivation switch, locate it and press it.
Can I Reactivate the Smart Key After Deactivation?
Yes, you can easily reactivate the system. Generally, pressing the physical switch for the second time will re-enable the Smart Key. For key fob deactivation, press any button on the fob to reactivate it.
Conclusion:
So, in this guide, we’ve covered many things, including the “how-to” guide for deactivating Toyota’s Smart Key system. You also see the deactivation switch location and deactivation mechanism across different Toyota models.
Knowing how to turn off the Smart Key system can prevent security concerns or battery depletion, whether it’s a temporary or permanent solution.
If you have any further questions or need further assistance, you can drop them here in the comment section. If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to consult your Toyota’s manual or reach out to your nearest dealership.
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