Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons undergo a lot of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. This can lead to them becoming faulty over time.
There are a few simple solutions that will get your keys back in working order. However, these solutions come with the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it's recommended to contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It could be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it no longer works as it should. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or in the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase a car from them.
The first thing you will need to do is determine what battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in the key fob is a button cell type that is similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob when you know what kind of battery it is using. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or seam between them which you can either open with your fingers, or with a flat tool like a screwdriver. When the fob is opened, the battery should come out, and you can insert the new one in the same orientation that the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed After that, you can connect the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons function properly. You can test if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn't respond to the fob, you might require reprogramming the fob and establish a wireless connection. This is a fairly straightforward process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it needs to be replaced It may not require the replacement of a battery, but rather the old one has to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos that explain how to go about this.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button multiple times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob within a time-specific period. This is how the fob sends its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in memory. The fob can function as a regular key after it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or on the internet. But, it is important to be aware of the model and make of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor once found a battery that fit the key fob she used, but it was for a different model of car. This meant that she could start her car and open the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist in this case and most dealers have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob for specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram 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 reprogramming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Each press of the button on your key fob emits a different code that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it not to recognise you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing a problem with your car key, it may be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the experience and tools necessary to diagnose and repair a variety of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated jobs, such as repairing a broken button or even cutting a replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. key fob repair of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic and has many different switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key for. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes harder to activate each of these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down more force on the switch to enable it to function. This could result in more damage to the switch, diminishing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery your key fob should work again.
If the issue persists it could be that the contacts on your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and covered with an electrically conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements while you use the key which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They will eventually wear to the point where they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, but it's costly and take a lot of time. You can also contact an expert locksmith in your area who will fix your key fob at a lower price.