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Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. As time passes, they may become damaged.
There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back to working. These methods do not come completely safe however. Altering batteries or altering the key fob could be risky. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in your car when you buy it.
It is first necessary to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically available on the website of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most common kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell that is like the ones found in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob has then you can open it up and take out the old battery. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or a seam where they join together and can be opened with your fingers, or by using a flat tool like a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery will pop right out and you can then put in the new one with the same orientation that the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed, you can take the two pieces of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons are functioning properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help you determine if everything is working as it should be. If your car doesn't respond to the key fob, you may have to reset the fob and establish wireless connectivity. It's a relatively easy process and requires the use of a smartphone or another device to accomplish this.
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 required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle so the best way to find out is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to accomplish this.
The majority of modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which typically involves engaging 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. Read Home is how the fob sends its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in memory. The fob will work like normal keys once 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 must be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for your car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or on the internet. You will need to know your car's make and model before you purchase a fob as it isn't easy to find the right battery.
A CR editor discovered the battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and unlock the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist you in this instance, as most of them have the tools needed to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Certain European vehicles, such as those made by Audi and BMW typically require a dealer to get this service because they use 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 try reprogramming 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 the key fob but can't start your car it may be time to replace the button on your key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or damaged. Each time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a sequence which the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognize you. It may close the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to install and open and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools needed to identify and fix a variety of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complex tasks, such as repairing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car's key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic material and has many different switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches activates the function for which you use the key. As the switch ages it becomes harder to turn on these functions. In the end, you will need to press harder on the switch in order to enable it to function. This could cause more damage to the switch, decreasing its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery your key fob should work again.
If the issue persists it could be because the contacts on the key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film that can wear down over time. When you use the key, they are exposed to dust and moisture. In time, they'll become worn until they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced at an auto dealer, but this could be expensive and may take a long time. You can also call an emergency locksmith who will repair your key fob for a lower price.