5 Qualities People Are Looking For In Every Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take lots of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. In time, they could become faulty.
There are many quick solutions to get your keys working again. These methods are not completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable performing these yourself, it's recommended that you contact an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob is not working as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store, or the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery with your car when you buy it.
The first thing you will need to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer will likely have this information on their website or on the key fob's specifications. Generally, the most common battery that is used in key fobs 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 for a pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using, you can open it up and take out the old battery. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or seam that connects them which you can either open by using your fingers, or using a flat tool like a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
After the new battery has been in place after which you can snap the two halves of the key fob back together and test it to ensure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help determine if everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram the key fob and establish a wireless connection between the two. key fob repair is a easy process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't work and you believe it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but rather the old one has to be reset. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to go about this.
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 a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specified time. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in memory. The fob will work like a regular key after it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs following the first, then they should be programmed quickly and carefully.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. However, you need to know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right kind can be difficult to locate.
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 was not in a position to lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist you in this instance and most dealers have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as those made by Audi and BMW, will usually require you to go to a dealer for this service because they use special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement provided you knew the exact model and make of your vehicle.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob but cannot start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives lots of use and jerking over time and may get stuck or damaged. Every time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a sequence that the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance without using the proper code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. It is simple to install buttons and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing a problem with the car key button, it may be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and fix a range of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.
The switch on the car key button is often worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic and it has several different switches that are located on the surface. Each switch is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. This means that you'll have to press down more force on the switch in order to enable it to function. This could cause further damage to the switch and reduce the life span of the switch.
Replace the battery in your key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries that you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should be working again.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and are covered with an electrically conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they are unable to contact with the circuit board, or sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, however it could be costly and takes a lot of time. Another option is to call a local locksmith for your car, who can repair your key fob and save you money.