Who Is The World's Top Expert On Car Key Button Repair?
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. Over time, they can become faulty.
There are a variety of quick fixes to get your keys back to working. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Altering batteries or altering the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It may be time to change the battery in the case that 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 will even include an extra key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will need to do is find out what kind 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. Generally, the most common battery used in the key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in remote controls and watches. 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 uses you can remove it and remove the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they connect. Once the fob is opened, the battery will pop right out and you can then put in the new one in the same direction as the old one. car key repairs near me of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are accessible at a variety of retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can put 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. You can verify that everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a simple process that only requires a phone or other device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob does not work and you believe it needs to be replaced, it may not need a new battery, but instead the old one needs to be changed. This procedure is different for every car so the best way to find out is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to accomplish this.
In most modern vehicles, a specific procedure is required to put the vehicle into "programming mode". This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob in a specific time frame. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then will save it. The fob will work like an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
It is important to remember that the process of reprogramming a key fob can erase any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. However, you must know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right type isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor stumbled across the battery for her key fob, however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant she was able to start her car and open the door, but she couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist in this case in this case, since they have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Some European cars, such as those made by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to a dealer to get this service due to the fact that they have special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with, including those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an original fob so long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and programming the key fob and still cannot start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of use and jostling and can be damaged or stuck over time. Each press of the button on your car key fob emits a different code that is recognized by the car's receiver. When you try to operate your car from a distance without the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and then lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing issues with your car key, it may be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as repairing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary causes. The switch is constructed of an extremely hard plastic with several switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down harder on the switch to get it to work. This could further damage the switch and reduce the life span of the switch.
The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery on your car key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button batteries, which you can easily find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery the key fob will work again.
If the problem persists it may be that your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and are covered with an electrical conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll wear down until they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced by going to a car dealership, however this can be expensive and could take a long time. Another alternative is to contact a local car locksmith who will be able to repair your key fob and save you money.