Seven Explanations On Why Car Key Button Repair Is Important
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot, especially if they are used frequently. Over time, they can be damaged.
There are a variety of quick solutions to get your keys working again. These methods are not completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it's best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It's possible to replace the battery in the case that your key fob no longer works as it should. You can usually buy replacement batteries from any chain drug store, or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
It is first necessary to determine the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob's specifications. The most commonly used battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell type similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob when you know the type of battery it uses. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they join. After the fob has been opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then put in the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed after which you can take the two pieces of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning exactly as it should. If your vehicle isn't responding to the keyfob, you may require reprogramming the fob and establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or a different device.
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob, and you think it's time to replace it It may not be necessary to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This process varies by car, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos explaining how to go about this.
Modern automobiles require a particular procedure to put the vehicle in 'programming mode,' which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob communicates its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. After the fob is programmed, it can function like normal keys.
It's important to note that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. But, it is important to be aware of the make and model of your car before purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be tricky to find.
A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob however, it came from a different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Luckily, dealers can assist in this case and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features which can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the fob in a replacement as they knew the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but you still cannot start your car, it might be time to replace the button on your key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jerking over time and may get stuck or damaged. Every time you press the button on your car key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognized by the car's receiver. When you try to operate your car from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it not to recognise you and shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These specialists are equipped with the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.
The switch inside the car key button is often worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically constructed from a hard plastic material and has many different switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function you are using the key to activate. As the switch age, it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch in order to get it to work. This can further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button batteries which you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will work once you have replaced the battery.
If the issue persists, it could be that the contacts on your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and are covered with an electrically conducting film that can wear out. As you use the key they are exposed to moisture and dust. Over time, they become worn to the point that they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this can be expensive and can take a long time. The other option is to contact a local car locksmith who will be able to repair your key fob and help you save money.