Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot particularly if they are used frequently. This can lead to them becoming damaged over time.
There are a variety of quick solutions to get your keys back to working. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to replace the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can find replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will need to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob uses. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. The most commonly used battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in remote controls and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob has then you can open 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 at which they join. After the fob has been opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then put in the new one in the same direction as the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed, you can take the two parts of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help determine whether or not everything is working exactly as it should. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. key fob repairs is a relatively simple process that only requires a phone or other device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't work and you think it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but rather the original one must be reset. This process is different for each car. To learn the procedure go through the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
The majority of modern vehicles require a specific 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 a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specified time. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, and then saves it. After the fob is programmed, it will function like an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be programmed quickly and carefully.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. But, it is important to be aware of the model and make of your vehicle prior to buying a fob battery as the right kind can be tricky to find.
A CR editor once found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she had, but it was for a different model of car. This meant that while she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Dealers can be a great resource in this case, as they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. Some European cars, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require a dealer to get this service because they use special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Certain dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram a replacement key fob provided you knew the exact model and brand of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob and still cannot start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and may get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognised by the car's receiver. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognise you. It may shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts If you're experiencing issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These experts have the tools and knowledge to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated tasks such as fixing 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 that the switch inside has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key for. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes harder to activate each of these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to activate it. This can cause further damage to the switch, further reducing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should be working again.
If the problem persists it could be that the contacts on the key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrically conducting film that wears out. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to moisture and dust. In time, they'll wear down to the point that they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, but it can be expensive and takes a lot of time. You can also contact a local locksmith who will fix your key fob for a lower price.