Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if used frequently. As time passes, they may become damaged.
There are a variety of quick fixes to get your keys back to working. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It's possible to change the battery if your key fob isn't working as it should. You can typically purchase replacement batteries from any chain drug store or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers include a spare battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.
First, you'll need to find out what kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the manufacturer's website or by checking the key fob. The most popular type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell that is like the ones found in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has then you can open it and take out the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they connect. When the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
After the new battery has been in place, you can connect the two pieces of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons function correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is functioning as it should be. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram your key fob and establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or a different device.
remote key fob repair
If your key fob won't work and you think it's time to replace it the fact is that it might not require an entirely new battery, but instead the original one must be reset. This procedure varies for each vehicle so the best way to find out is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to accomplish this.
In modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle in "programming mode". This typically involves pressing the power button several times on the driver's door or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a specific time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed after the first one.
There are a few replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. You will need to know the model and make before you purchase a fob because it isn't easy to locate the right battery.
A CR editor found the battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that while she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Luckily, dealers can help in this situation in this case, since they have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke with like those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to attempt reprogramming the fob in a replacement as provided you know the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob and you're still unable to start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jolting over time and can become stuck or broken. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is transmitted in a sequence which the receiver inside the vehicle is able to recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognize you. It may shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key It could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the experience and tools needed to identify and fix a variety of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex tasks, like fixing a damaged key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and it has several different switches on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch age, it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. This means that you will need to press harder on the switch in order to enable it to function. This could further damage the switch and shorten its lifespan.
The most effective solution to this issue is to replace the battery in the key fob of your car. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button batteries, which you can easily find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists it could be because your key fob's contacts have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear out over time. They are exposed to elements while you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced at a car dealership, however this could be expensive and could take a long time. You can also call a local locksmith who can repair your key fob at a lower price.