You'll Never Guess This Car Key Button Repair's Tricks
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. This can lead to them becoming damaged over time.
There are many quick solutions to make your keys work again. However, these methods have risks associated with changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable performing these yourself, it is recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It may be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob no longer works as it should. You can purchase replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery in the car when you purchase it.
The first thing you'll need to do is find out which battery your key fob uses. This information is typically found on the website of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most commonly used type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using, you can open it up and remove the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they connect. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will come out. You can then replace it with the same orientation. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily accessible at a variety of retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is in place After that, you can connect the two pieces of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons are functioning properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning in the way it should. If your car does not respond to the fob, you might need to reprogram the fob to establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively simple process that only requires your phone or another device.
key fob repairs
If your key fob does not work and you believe it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but instead the original one must be changed. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
Modern vehicles require a special 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 a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in memory. The fob can function as an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. You will need to know the make and model before you purchase a fob because it can be difficult to locate the correct battery.
A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she used however, it was for a different model of car. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.
Luckily, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob 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 or reprogramming the key fob, but you still cannot start your car, it may be time to replace the button on your key. The car key button gets lots of use and jerking over time and may get stuck or even broken. Each press of the button on your key fob releases a distinct 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 lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. They are easy to install and open and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These experts have the tools and know-how to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch on the button for the car key is typically worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is constructed of hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key for. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. In the end, you will need to press down harder on the switch to make it work. This can cause further damage to the switch, thereby diminishing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries, which you can easily find at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts on the key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and covered with an electrically conducting film that can wear out. When you use the key, they are constantly exposed to dust and moisture. In time, they'll wear down until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by visiting an auto dealer, but it can be costly and can take quite a while. Another option is to call a local locksmith for your car who can fix your key fob and save you money.