Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are used frequently. This can lead to them becoming damaged over time.
There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back to working. However, these solutions come with risks associated with changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not confident with these methods, it's 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 usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store, or the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery with your car when you buy it.
You will first need to find out the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the site of the manufacturer or by examining the 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 watches and remote controls. These types of batteries are commonly available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer, and are available for less than $5 for a package of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob when you know which type of battery it is using. It is possible to open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they join. Once car key repairs near me is opened, the battery should come out, and you can insert the new one in the same direction that the old one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed after which you can connect the two parts of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons are functioning correctly. You can determine if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle isn't responding to the keyfob, you may need to reprogram the fob to establish wireless connectivity. Fortunately, this is quite simple and requires the use of a smartphone or another device to accomplish this.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having issues with your key fob and believe it needs a new one however, it may not be necessary to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle so the best way to find out is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to go about this.
Modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing the fob's button within a certain time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will perform the same way as an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
You can often find replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. However, you need to be aware of the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right kind can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor discovered an battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and open the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist you in this instance in this case, since they have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob for the specific vehicle. Some European vehicles, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to a dealer to get this service since they utilize specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as they knew the exact make and model of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it could be time to replace the button on your key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot use and jostling and can be damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a pattern that the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognize you. It could shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is simple to install buttons and they are very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They 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 have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car key switch to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic and it has several different switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key for. As the switch ages it becomes harder to activate these functions. As a result, you will need to press down harder on the switch in order to get it to work. This could cause further damage to the switch and shorten its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. It is easy to find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery your key fob should work again.
If the problem persists it could be that the contacts inside the key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electric conducting film, which could wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are constantly exposed to moisture and dust. Over time, they become worn until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, but it can be expensive and take a lot of time. You can also contact an expert locksmith in your area who will repair your key fob for less.