Ten Common Misconceptions About Car Key Button Repair That Aren't Always True
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot, especially if they are frequently used. This can lead to them becoming faulty over time.
There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys working again. However, these solutions come with the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with the key fob. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob is not functioning as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can usually find replacement batteries from any chain drug store, or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include an extra key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
You will first need to find out what kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is usually available on the website of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell type 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 box of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob has then you can open it and remove the old battery. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or a seam where they join together which you can either open by using your fingers or using an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. After the key fob is been opened the battery will pop out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
After the new battery has been in place, you can take the two halves of the key fob together and check that all buttons are functioning properly. 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 working exactly as it should. If your vehicle does not respond to the key fob, you may need to reprogram the fob and establish wireless connectivity. This is a fairly straightforward process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob, and you think that it's time to get a new one It may not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may require reprogramming. This process is different for each vehicle. To learn how to do it, consult your owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
The majority of modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition multiple times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the car, which saves it in memory. The fob will work like an ordinary key once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be reprogrammed swiftly and carefully.
There are a few replacement batteries for your car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. However, you must know the make and model of your car prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor stumbled across the battery for her key fob but it was from an entirely different vehicle. car key fob repair near me meant she was able to start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist in this case, as most of them have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob into specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to such as those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to attempt reprogramming the fob in a replacement as long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob but can't start your car it may be time to replace the button on your key. The key on your car receives many uses and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or damaged. Every time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent in a sequence which the vehicle's receiver is able to recognize. When you try to operate your car from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it not to recognise you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing issues with the car key button it could be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the experience and tools required to recognize and fix a variety of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complex tasks like fixing damaged buttons or cutting a replacement key.
The switch in the car key button is usually worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic and it has several different switches on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function that you use the key for. As the switch gets older it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to get it to work. This can cause further damage to the switch, thereby reducing its lifespan.
The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery in the key fob of your car. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work again.
If the issue persists, it may be that the contacts on your key fob 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 as you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. They will eventually wear to the point where they are unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced by going to a car dealership, however this could be expensive and can take an extended time. Another option is to contact an auto locksmith in your area, who will be able to repair your key fob and save you money.