Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. As time passes, they may become faulty.
Fortunately, there are several quick fixes to make your keys work again. These solutions are not without risk however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
If you're noticing that your key fob is not working as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will need to do is find out which battery your key fob uses. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. Generally, the most common battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses, you can remove 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 join. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will pop out. Then, you can replace it with the same design. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery and then test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is working as it should be. If your vehicle isn't responding to the key fob, you may have to reset the fob to establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively straightforward process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob, and you think it needs a new one, it might not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This process is different for every car. To learn how to go about it you must consult the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Most modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to more info the vehicle, and it stores it in its memory. The fob functions as normal keys once it has been programmed.
It is important to know that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. However, you need to be aware of the make and model of your car before purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor discovered an battery for her key fob, but it was from another vehicle. This meant that although she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European automobiles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features that can only be reset in the factory. here Other dealers we spoke to such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an original fob so long as you knew the exact model and make of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and programming the key fob, but you still not being able to start your car, it could be time to replace the button on your key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of use and jostling and can be damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognized by the car's receiver. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It might lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as 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 also have the expertise and experience to handle more complex tasks, such as repairing broken buttons or how to repair car key fob cutting a replacement key.
The switch in the button for the car key is typically worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically constructed from a read more hard plastic material and it has several different switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating a specific function that you use the key to activate. As the switch ages it becomes harder to turn on these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch in order to get it to work. This could cause further damage to the switch, reducing its lifespan.
The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery in your car's key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion button or coin batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the issue persists, it could be because your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electric conducting film, which can wear away over time. They are exposed to the elements while you use the key which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They will eventually wear to the point that they are unable to contact with the car key repair shop circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, but it can be expensive and take a lot of time. You can also contact a local locksmith who can repair your key fob for less.