Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons undergo lots of abuse, especially if used frequently. This can lead to them becoming damaged over time.
There are a few quick fixes that will allow your keys working again. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob not functioning as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can typically purchase replacement batteries from any chain drug store, or the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery with the car when you purchase it.
The first thing you will need to do is determine what battery your key fob is powered by. This information is typically found on the website of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. The most commonly used kind of battery that is found in the keyfob is the button cell that is similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These kinds of batteries are commonly sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought for less than $5 for a package of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know which type of battery it uses. Most key fobs are designed with a seam or notch between them which you can either open with your fingers, or with the flat side of a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery should pop right out and you can insert the new one with the same orientation as the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after you have inserted the new battery and then test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function correctly. You can determine if everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob, while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. Fortunately, this is quite simple and requires only the use of a phone or other device to accomplish this.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having issues with your key fob, and you think it's time to replace it, it might not be necessary to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car. To learn the procedure go through the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob in a specific time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which will save it. Once the fob has been programmed, it will perform the same way as an ordinary key.
It's important to note that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs which have been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. It is important to know your car's make and model before you purchase a fob as it can be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she had, but it was for a different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and unlock the door, but she couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist you in this instance, as most of them have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European automobiles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to like those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming a replacement fob as provided you know the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob and still haven't been able to start your car it might be time to replace that button on the key. The key on your car receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and may get stuck or damaged. Each press of the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If remote key fob repair attempt to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognize you. It may lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. It is simple to install buttons and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to speak with a professional when you're having issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They are equipped with the tools and knowledge to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch on the button for the car key is usually worn out. This is due to excessive use and exposure to the elements. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and it has several different switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch gets older it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. In the end, you'll have to press harder on the switch in order to get it to work. This can cause more damage to the switch, diminishing its longevity.
The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery in your car's key fob. It is easy to find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery the key fob will be working again.
If see page persists it may be that your key fob's contacts have 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 when you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. Over time, they wear down until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but it can be costly and may take quite a while. You can also contact a local locksmith who will repair your key fob at less.