Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure many abuses particularly when they are used regularly. This can result in them becoming faulty over time.
There are a variety of quick solutions to make your keys work again. However, these solutions come with the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with the key fob. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it's best to consult a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob not working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries at any chain drugstore nationwide or at the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
You will first need to find out what kind of battery is being 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 kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob when 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, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they join. After the key fob has been opened the battery will pop out. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is in place after which you can snap the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons work properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine whether or not everything is functioning in the way it should. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram your key fob and establish a wireless connection between the two. Luckily, this is an easy procedure and requires the use of a smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having issues with your key fob and believe that it's time to get a new one however, it may not be necessary to replace it. Instead the old battery might need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car so the best way to find out is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
Modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition multiple times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then stores it. The fob will work like an ordinary key once it is programmed.
It is important to know that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs which have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed following the initial one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. However, you must be aware of the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a battery for your fob because the right kind can be tricky to find.
A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned, but it was for a different vehicle. This meant that, while she was able to start the car and open the doors, she was not capable of lowering the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset at the factory. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming an original fob so long as you knew the exact model and make of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob and still not being able to start your car, it might be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives many uses and jerking over time and may get stuck or even broken. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle is able to recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognise you. It could shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. They are easy to open and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to speak with a professional 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. These specialists have the knowledge and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.
One of the main reasons for a car's key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is constructed of a hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch in order to make it work. This can further damage the switch and reduce the life span of the switch.
Replace the battery in your key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries that you can find at pharmacies, supermarkets, and home improvement stores. Your key fob should be working after replacing the battery.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which can wear away over time. They are exposed to elements as you use the key which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. repair car keys near me 'll eventually wear out to the point where they are unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, but it could be costly and takes a lot of time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who will fix your key fob for a lower price.