How To Become A Prosperous Car Key Button Repair Entrepreneur Even If You're Not Business-Savvy
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure many abuses, especially if used frequently. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to make your keys work again. These methods do not come without risk however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be risky. If you're not comfortable performing these yourself, it's recommended to consult an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may 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 of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you'll need to find out which battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website, or you can check the key fob's specifications. The most common type of battery found in the keyfob is the button cell similar to those found in remotes and watches. These kinds of batteries are commonly sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought for under $5 for a pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses then you can open it and remove the old battery. It is possible to open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver at the notch or seam where they connect. After the key fob is been opened the battery will come out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. remote key fob repair of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can snap the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons function correctly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help determine if everything is working in the way it should. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram your key fob and establish an internet connection between the two. It's an easy procedure and only requires the use of your phone or other device to accomplish this.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob and believe that it's time to get a new one however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This process is different for each car. To learn how to go about it you must consult the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button multiple times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on the fob within a specific time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in its memory. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and swiftly 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. You will need to know 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 a battery for her key fob however, it was from another vehicle. This meant that although she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.
Dealers can be a great resource in this situation, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with such as those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as long as you knew the exact make and model of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, but still haven't been able to start your car it's time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets lots of use and jolting over time and can sometimes become stuck or broken. Every time you press the button on your car key fob emits a different code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your car from a distance without using the correct code could cause it not to recognise you and then lock the doors or shut 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
It may be time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools required to recognize and repair a variety of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary causes. The switch is made from a hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key for. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. This means that you'll have to press down harder on the switch in order to make it work. This could further damage the switch and shorten its lifespan.
The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside your car's key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button batteries that you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrically conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements when you use the key and are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, however it's costly and take a lot of time. The other option is to call a local locksmith for your car, who will be able to repair your key fob and help you save money.