Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. In time, they could become damaged.
There are car key fob repair near me that can get your keys back in working order. However, these methods have risks when it comes to changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It's possible to change the battery if your key fob no longer works as it should. You can find replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your car from them.
First, you'll need to determine the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the manufacturer's website or by looking at the key fob. The most commonly used type of battery in the keyfob is the button cell that is like the ones found in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know the type of battery it is using. It is possible to open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they join. Once 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. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons work properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine if everything is working as it should be. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. It's an easy procedure and only requires the use of your phone or other device to do so.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob doesn't work and you think it needs to be replaced, it may not need an entirely new battery, but instead the original one must be reset. This procedure varies for each vehicle, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos that explain how to do this.
In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the driver's door or ignition, while simultaneously pressing the button on the fob within the time frame specified. This is how the fob communicates its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in its memory. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it is programmed.
It is important to remember 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 must be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. However, you need to know the make and model of your car prior to purchasing a battery for your fob because the right kind can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor found an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned however, it was for a different vehicle. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this case, as they have the tools to reprogram the fob for specific vehicles. Certain European automobiles, like those manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to an authorized dealer for this service because they use specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with like those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme an original fob so provided you know the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and programming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot use and jolting and may get damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your car from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with the car key button, it may be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They have the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and has a variety of switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key for. As the switch ages over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. As a result, you will need to press harder on the switch in order to make it work. This could further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.
The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery inside your car key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries, which you can easily buy at supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work once more.
If the issue persists, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and covered by an electrical conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to elements as you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll get worn down to the point that they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, but it's costly and take a lot of time. You can also call a local locksmith who will repair your key fob for an affordable price.