Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are exposed to a lot, especially if they are often used. In time, they could be damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys working again. These methods do not come without risk however. Altering batteries or altering your key fob can be dangerous. If you're not confident with these methods, it's recommended to seek advice from a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can buy replacement batteries at any national chain drugstore or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery in your car when you buy it.
The first thing you will need to do is determine what battery your key fob uses. This information is typically available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in the key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in watches and remote key fob repairs controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know what kind of battery it uses. The majority of key fobs are made with a seam or notch that connects them which you can either open with your fingers, or by using an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. When the fob is opened, the battery should come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction as the previous one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at many retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed after which you can snap the two parts of the key fob together and check 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 functioning as it should be. If your car isn't responding to the keyfob, you may require reprogramming the fob to establish a wireless connection. Luckily, this is quite simple and requires only the use of your phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob and believe it needs a new one, it might not be required to replace it. Instead, the old battery may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle and the best option is to refer to the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
In most modern vehicles, a particular 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 the button on a fob in a specific time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in memory. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed after the first one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for mobile car key repair near me key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. It is important to be aware of your car's make and model before you purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor once came across a battery that was compatible with the key fob she owned, but it was for a different model of car. This meant that, while she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist in this case in this case, since they have the tools needed to reprogram a fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an alternative key fob provided you knew the exact model and year of your car key repair.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob but 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 get damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a sequence which the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance without using the correct code could cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to speak with a professional If you're experiencing issues with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These experts are equipped with the tools and knowledge to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks like fixing broken key repair near me buttons or cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is constructed of hard plastic and has many switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key for. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. This means that you will need to press harder on the switch in order to get it to work. This could further damage the switch and shorten its lifespan.
The most straightforward solution to this problem is to replace the battery on your car key fob. You can locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now work once you have replaced the battery.
If the problem persists it could be because the contacts on your key fob's device have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and are covered with an electrical conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll wear down to the point where they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this can be expensive and may take a long time. You can also call a local locksmith who will repair your key fob at an affordable price.