Car Key Button Repair: The Secret Life Of Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys back to working. These methods do not come completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not confident doing these yourself, it's recommended that you contact a professional auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery if your key fob isn't working as it should. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will need to find out what kind of battery your key fob uses. This information is typically found on the site of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. The most commonly used kind of battery that is found in the keyfob is the button cell, which is similar to those found in watches and remotes. These types of batteries are commonly sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer and are available for purchase at less than $5 for a package 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. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool such as a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they join. Once key car repair has been opened the battery will pop out. Then, you can replace it with the same design. 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 in place, you can take the two pieces of the key fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons are functioning correctly. You can verify that all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. This is a relatively easy process that requires a phone or other device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob does not function and you believe it needs to be replaced It may not require a new battery, but instead the old one needs to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle, so your best bet is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos that explain how to go about this.
The majority of modern automobiles require a particular 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 the fob's button within a certain time frame. This is how the fob sends its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it can perform the same way as normal keys.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. However, you need to be aware of the model and make of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery can be tricky to find.
A CR editor discovered a battery for her key fob however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not capable of lowering the windows.
Luckily, dealers can assist in this case in this case, since they have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob for a specific car. Certain European cars, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require an authorized dealer for this service because they use specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to, including those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as provided you know the exact model and make of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and programming the key fob, but you still not being able to start your car, it might be time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets many uses and jolting over time and can get stuck or damaged. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle is able to recognize. Trying to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code could cause it not to recognise you and 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 very 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 tools and know-how to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks, such as repairing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.
The switch inside the car key button is typically worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic and has a variety of switches on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key for. As the switch age it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. This means that you'll need to push harder on the switch in order to make it work. This can cause more damage to the switch, further decreasing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion coin or button batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now work once you have replaced the battery.
If the problem continues, it could be because the contacts on your key fob's device have been worn out. The contacts are rubbery and are covered with an electrical conducting film that wears out. As you use the key they are constantly exposed to dust and moisture. Over time, they get worn down to the point where they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but this can be expensive and may take an extended time. The other alternative is to contact a local locksmith for your car who can repair your key fob and save you money.