10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot particularly if they are frequently used. As time passes, they may become faulty.
There are many quick solutions to make your keys work again. These methods do not come without risk however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it is recommended to contact an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you're noticing that your key fob no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can typically purchase replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or in the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery with the car when you purchase it.
The first thing you'll have to do is find out which battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. Generally, the most common battery used in the key fob is a button cell type similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. 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 join. After the key fob has been opened the battery will come out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can snap the two halves back together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function correctly. 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 exactly as it should. If your car isn't responding to the keyfob, you may have to reset the fob and establish wireless connectivity. This is a fairly simple process that only requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe it's time to replace it, it might not be necessary to replace it. Instead, the old battery may need to be reprogrammed. This process is different for each vehicle. To learn the procedure, consult your owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Most modern automobiles require a particular 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 the fob's button within a certain time frame. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the car, which saves it in memory. The fob functions as a regular key after it has been programmed.
It is important to remember that changing the programming of a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs which have been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. It is important to be aware of your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob as it isn't easy to locate the right battery.
A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that although she was able to start the car and open the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this case, as they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on the specific vehicle. Some European cars, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW typically require a dealer for this service because they use specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an original fob so long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob and still can't start your car it's time to replace that button on your key. Your car key button receives many uses and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or damaged. Each time you press the button on your key fob, the unique code is transmitted in a sequence which the receiver inside the vehicle can recognize. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it not to recognise you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to open and install and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to consult the experts when you're having issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and repair a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.
The switch in the button for the car key is usually worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to the elements. The switch is made of hard plastic and has many switches on its surface. car key repairs near me is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key for. As the switch gets older it becomes harder to activate these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch in order to make it work. This can cause further damage to the switch, further diminishing its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion button or coin batteries which you can find 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 inside your key fob are worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and are covered with an electrical conducting film that can wear out. When you use the keypad, they are continuously exposed to dust and moisture. Over time, they become worn to the point where they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, but it could be costly and takes a lot of time. The other option is to contact a local locksmith for your car who will be able to repair your key fob and save you money.