Dash Slot Won't Accept Keyfob?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by pacerfan123, Nov 11, 2014.

  1. pacerfan123

    pacerfan123 New Member

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    Hello!
    I have a 2005 Prius - everything is working fine but my dash slot won't open to accept my keyfob. A red light blinks when I put the key up to the slot - does that mean a battery is low or something? The car still unlocks/locks and goes - so it's not a major problem but just kind of confusing. Thanks for your help!
     
    #1 pacerfan123, Nov 11, 2014
  2. nh7o

    nh7o Off grid since 1980

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    A while back there was a report of someone having the problem of not getting the fob to release, which is the opposite of your description. I would suspect the small solenoid, that engages the small depression on the sides of the fob case, has gotten stuck due to dirt or corrosion. It might just take some fiddling about with a probe and some *spray lube or your choice*. Or it might require disassembly of the dash to get at the unit to clean and lubricate.
     
    #2 nh7o, Nov 11, 2014
    Last edited: Nov 12, 2014
  3. JC91006

    JC91006 Senior Member

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    Is this a new replacement fob? Recently programmed?
     
    #3 JC91006, Nov 11, 2014
  4. Easy Rider 2

    Easy Rider 2 Senior Member

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    Here we go again.
    WD40 is ***NOT*** a good lubricant. Don't take my word for it, ask any gunsmith or locksmith.
    Spray silicone is much better because it is a good lubricant for metals and plastics.
     
    #4 Easy Rider 2, Nov 12, 2014
  5. usnavystgc

    usnavystgc Die Hard DIYer and Ebike enthusiast.

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    #5 usnavystgc, Nov 12, 2014
    Last edited: Nov 12, 2014
  6. nh7o

    nh7o Off grid since 1980

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    With the car off, I can push my finger in the slot, and the small door opens freely, with the detent mechanism on the left side sliding out of the way easily. It beeps, even. The OP could try this to check for binding.
     
    #6 nh7o, Nov 12, 2014
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