Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are often used. In time, they could be damaged.
There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back in working order. These methods do not come completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be risky. If you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery if your key fob no longer works as it should. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store, or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in your vehicle when you purchase it.
You will first need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob's specifications. The most popular kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell, which is similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These kinds of batteries are typically sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought at less than $5 for a pack of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using you can open it up and take out the old battery. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or seam that connects them and can be opened with your fingers, or using the flat side of a screwdriver. When the fob is opened, the battery will come out, and you can then put in the new one with the same orientation as the old one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily accessible at a variety of retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after you have inserted the new battery, and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning exactly as it should. If your car does not respond to the keyfob, you may need to reprogram the fob and establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively straightforward process that requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob does not function and you believe it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but instead the old one needs to be changed. This process is different for each car. To find out the procedure, consult your owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In most modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button multiple 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 sends its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in memory. The fob can function as a regular key after it has been programmed.
It is important to remember that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that had been programmed previously. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed after the first one.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or on the internet. It is important to know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob because it may be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned however, it was for a different vehicle. This meant that although she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist you in this instance, as most of them have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob into specific cars. Some European cars, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require an authorized dealer for this service since they utilize specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme a replacement key fob if you knew the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, but still haven't been able to start your car it might be time to replace that button on the key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jerking over time and can become stuck or broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob, a unique code is sent out in a pattern that the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognise you. It may lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to open and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with the car key button it could be time to call in the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the expertise and tools required to recognize and fix a range of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.
The switch inside the car key button is typically worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is made of hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key to activate. As the switch gets older it becomes harder to turn on these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch in order to make it work. This could cause further damage to the switch, thereby diminishing its longevity.
Replace the battery in your key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion coin or button batteries, which you can easily find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem continues, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film, which can wear away over time. They are exposed to the elements while you use the key and are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. Over car keys repair , they become worn to the point where they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and can take an extended time. Another alternative is to contact a local car locksmith, who can fix your key fob and help you save money.