Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take many abuses particularly if they are used frequently. As time passes, they may become faulty.
There are many quick solutions to get your keys back to working. However, these solutions come with risks associated with changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended to contact a professional auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you're noticing that your key fob no longer working as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.
It is first necessary to find out the kind of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or on the key fob itself. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in key fobs is a button cell similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob after you know what kind of battery it has. 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. Once the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can insert the new one in the same orientation as the old one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery, and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons work correctly. You can test if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it may be required to reprogram the key fob to establish an internet connection between the two. This is a straightforward process that requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob does not work and you believe it needs to be replaced, it may not need an entirely new battery, but rather the original one must be changed. This procedure differs for every car. To find out the procedure you must consult the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Modern automobiles require a particular 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 multiple times while pressing the fob's button within a specified time. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then stores it. Once the fob is programmed, it will function like an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed following the initial one.
You can often find replacement batteries for a key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. But, it is important to know the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor found a battery that fit the key fob she had however it was for a different model of car. 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 assist in this case, as most of them have the tools needed to reprogram a fob to specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement if you knew the exact model and make of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and programming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. Your car key button receives lots of use and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or damaged. Each press of the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance without using the proper code could cause it not to recognise you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key button it could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They are equipped with the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complex tasks like fixing broken buttons or cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to the elements. The switch is made from an extremely hard plastic with many switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages it becomes harder to turn on these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down more force on the switch to make it work. This can further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.
The most straightforward solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside your car's key fob. You can find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should function after you have replaced the battery.
If the problem persists it could be because your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are rubbery and are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears out. When you use the key, they are exposed to moisture and dust. In time, they'll wear down to the point where they no longer make contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
repair car key fob can replace your key fob, however it could be costly and take a long time. You can also contact a local locksmith who will fix your key fob at less.