5 Clarifications On Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button RepairThe buttons on keys for cars are subject to a lot of pressure and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. Over time, they can be damaged.
There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys working again. However, these techniques carry risks associated with changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not confident doing these yourself, it is recommended to contact an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store, or the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers will even include an extra key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
The first thing you will have to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob is powered by. This information is typically available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. The most commonly used type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell, which is similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob is using then you can open it and take out the old battery. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they connect. Once the fob is opened, the battery should come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction that the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at many stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after you have inserted the new battery and test the key fob to ensure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine if everything is working as it should be. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it may be necessary to reprogram your key fob and re-establish an internet connection between the two. This is a easy process that requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob and believe it needs a new one, it might not be required to replace it. Instead, the old battery may need to be reprogrammed. This process varies by car and the best option is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the automaker's website) or search YouTube for videos on how to go about this.
The majority of modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle into 'programming mode,' which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. The fob can function as normal keys once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. It is important to be aware of your car's model and make before you purchase a fob as it can be difficult to find the right battery.
A CR editor discovered 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 was not in a position to lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with, including those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming the fob in a replacement as provided you know the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of pressure and jostling and can become stuck or damaged over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent in a sequence which the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. Trying to operate your car from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it not to recognise you and then lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to install and open and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These experts are equipped with the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the skills and expertise to tackle more complex tasks such as fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.
The switch on the button for the car key is usually worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically constructed from a hard plastic and has many different switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function that you use the key to activate. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. This means that you'll need to push harder on the switch in order to get it to work. This could further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.
The most straightforward solution to this issue is to replace the battery on your car key fob. It is easy to find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob repair car key fob should now 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 covered by an electrically conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to elements while you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They will eventually wear 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 can be expensive and may take an extended time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who will fix your key fob for less.