Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subjected to a lot particularly if they are often used. In time, they could be damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick fixes to get your keys back to working. However, these techniques carry risks associated with changing batteries or tampering with the key fob. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change she said
If you're noticing that your key fob no longer working 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 even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
First, you'll need to determine the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob's specifications. The most commonly used type of battery found in the keyfob is the button cell, which is similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These types of batteries are available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought at less than $5 for a set of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob uses you can remove it and remove the old battery. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or a seam between them, which you can open by using your fingers or with the flat side of a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will come out. Then, you can replace it with the same orientation. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery, and then test the key fob to confirm 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 car does not respond to the key fob, you may need to reprogram the fob and establish a wireless connection. It's quite simple and requires only the use of your smartphone or another device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't work and you believe it's time to replace it It may not require the replacement of a battery, but instead the original one must be reprogrammed. This procedure differs for each vehicle. To learn how to do it, consult your owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which typically involves engaging the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a certain time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. The fob functions as a regular key after it has been 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 want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be programmed quickly and carefully.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars at hardware stores, major retailers, or even on the internet. However, you must be aware of the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the correct type of battery isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor found an battery for her key fob, but it was from a different vehicle. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but she couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist in this case and most dealers have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Some European vehicles, such as those made by Audi and BMW typically require a dealer to get this service due to the fact that they have special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an alternative key fob if you knew the exact model and year of your vehicle.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, but still can't start your car it's time to replace that button on your key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of use and jolting and may become stuck or damaged over time. Each press of the button on your car key fob emits a different code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognise you. It could shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. 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 changing their programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex jobs, like fixing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.
The switch on the button for the car key is often worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically constructed from a hard plastic material and has many different switches on the surface. Each switch activates the function for which you are using the key. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. In the end, you'll have to press down harder on the switch in order to enable it to function. This could result in more damage to the switch, further decreasing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work again.
If the issue persists it could be because the contacts on your key fob are worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electric conducting film that can wear away over time. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or the sensor under the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, however it can be expensive 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.