Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons endure lots of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. As time passes, they may be damaged.

There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys back to working. However, these methods have risks associated with changing batteries or tampering with your key fob repair near me fob. If you're not confident doing these yourself, it is recommended to consult an expert auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

It's possible to change the battery in your key fob if it isn't working as it should. You can find replacement batteries in any chain drugstore nationwide or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.

You will first need to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer will likely have this information on their website or on the key fob's specifications. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in a key fob is a button cell type similar to the ones used in watches and Remote car key repair near me controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.

You can take the old battery off your key fob after you know the type of battery it uses. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or seam that connects them which you can either open by using your fingers, or by using an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.

After the new battery has been in place, you can connect the two parts of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help determine if everything is functioning exactly as it should. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic car key repair near me connection between the two. Fortunately, this is quite simple and requires the use of a phone or other device to do so.

Reprogram your key fob

If your key fob does not work 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 reset. This procedure varies for each vehicle, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to go about 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 a few times while pressing the fob's button within a specific time period. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it. The fob functions as normal keys once it is programmed.

It is important to know that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. If you wish to keep the other fobs after the first, then they must be reprogrammed quickly and with care.

Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key repair service key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. However, you must know the make and model of your car before buying a fob battery as the right type can be tricky to find.

A CR editor once came across a battery that fit the key fob she had however, it was for a different car. This meant she was able to start her car and open the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.

Dealers can be of great assistance in this regard, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features that can only be reset at the factory. Certain dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram an alternative key fob in the event that you could identify the exact model and brand of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, vehicle key repairs reprogramming your key fob, and you're still unable to start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of use and jolting and may be damaged or stuck over time. Every time you press the button on your key fob the unique code is sent out in a sequence that the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognize you. It may shut the doors or turn off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is easy to install buttons and they are extremely simple to open.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It's time to speak with a professional when you're having issues with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting a replacement key.

The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is made of an extremely hard plastic with multiple switches on its surface. Each of these switches activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. This means that you'll have to press down more force on the switch in order to get it to work. This could cause further damage to the switch and shorten its lifespan.

The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery on your car key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery your key fob should work once more.

If the problem continues, it may be that your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and covered by an electrical conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to elements while you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.

The dealership can replace your key fob, but it could be costly and take a lot of time. Another alternative is to contact a local car locksmith, who can fix your key fob and save you money.