Car Key Button Repair The buttons on the car keys are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if often used. As time passes, they may become damaged. Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys back to working. These methods are not completely safe however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult a professional auto locksmith. Change the Battery It may be time to change the battery if your key fob isn't working as it should. You can typically purchase replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery in the car when you purchase it. The first thing you will have to do is determine what battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell type similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. These types of batteries are commonly found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer, and are available for purchase for under $5 for a pack of two. You can take the old battery off your key fob once you know the type of battery it uses. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they join. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will pop out. You can then replace it in the same orientation. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries. You can put the two halves back 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 pointing it towards your vehicle will allow you to determine whether or not everything is working in the way it should. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob to establish a wireless connection between the two. This is a fairly straightforward process that requires your phone or another device. Reprogram the Key Fob If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it's time to replace it the fact is that it might not require an entirely 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 automaker's website) or search YouTube for videos on 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 multiple times while pressing the fob's button within a certain time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then will save it. Once the fob has been programmed, it can perform the same way as a normal key. It is important to remember that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that have been previously programmed. If you wish to keep the other fobs following the first, they should be reprogrammed swiftly and carefully. Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. However, you need to know the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a battery for your fob because the right type isn't always easy to locate. A CR editor discovered an battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that, while she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows. Dealers can be a great resource in this case, as they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for specific vehicles. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke with such as those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to attempt reprogramming an original fob so 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 haven't been able to start your car it's time to replace the button on your key. The key on your car receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Each press of the button on your key fob generates a unique code that is recognized by the car's receiver. When you try to operate your car from a distance without using the correct code could cause it not to recognise you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine. remote key fob repair can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the old button. Contact an Auto Locksmith It may be time to consult the experts 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. They have the experience and tools necessary to diagnose and fix a variety 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 complex tasks, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key. The switch in the car key button is often worn out. This is due to excessive use and exposure to elements. The switch is constructed of an extremely hard plastic with many switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a 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. In the end, you will need to press down more force on the switch in order to get it to work. This can further damage the switch and shorten its lifespan. Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will function after you have replaced the battery. If the problem persists it may be that the contacts on your key fob's device have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electric conducting film that can wear down over time. They are exposed to elements while you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They will eventually wear to the point that they're unable to contact with the circuit board, or sensor beneath the keypad. You can try to have the key fob replaced at a car dealership, however this could be expensive and could take an extended time. You can also call a local locksmith who will repair your key fob at a lower price.
remote key fob repair
