You'll Be Unable To Guess Car Key Button Repair's Tricks
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are often used. This could lead to them becoming damaged over time.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys back to working. These methods do not come without risk however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob's security can be risky. If you're not confident doing these yourself, it is recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob not functioning as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries at any national chain drugstore or at the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.
First, you'll need to determine the type of battery is used in your key fob. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most commonly used battery used in a key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in remote controls and watches. These kinds of batteries are available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought at less than $5 for a pack of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob has then you can remove it and remove the old battery. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they join. When the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then insert the new one in the same orientation as the old one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily available at many stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is inserted, you can connect the two parts of the key fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons function properly. You can determine if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob to establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having issues 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 may require reprogramming. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the automaker's website) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
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 a button on the fob within a specific time period. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, which then stores it. Once the fob has been programmed, it can perform the same way as normal keys.
It is important to know that reprogramming a key fob will erase any other key fobs which have been programmed previously. If key fob repairs wish to keep the other fobs after the first, then they should be programmed quickly and with care.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or online. However, you must be aware of the make and model of your car prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be tricky to find.
A CR editor found an battery for her key fob however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European cars such as Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to, including those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme the fob in a replacement as they knew the exact make and model of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of use and jolting and may be damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a pattern that the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It could shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. It is easy to install buttons and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They are equipped with the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complex tasks, like fixing a damaged key or cutting a replacement key.
The switch in the button for the car key is often worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is made of an extremely hard plastic with multiple switches on its surface. Each of these switches activates the function for which you are using the key. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch to make it work. This could cause further damage to the switch and shorten its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion button or coin batteries, which you can easily buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should function after you have replaced the battery.
If the problem persists it could be that the contacts in your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrical conducting film that wears out. When you use the key, they are continuously exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they're unable to contact with the circuit board, or the sensor under the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced at an auto dealer, but it can be costly and can take a long time. The other option is to call an auto locksmith in your area, who can repair your key fob and help you save money.