You'll Never Guess This Car Key Button Repair's Tricks
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are subjected to a lot particularly if they are often used. As time passes, they may become damaged.
There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys working again. These methods do not come completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be risky. If you're not confident with these methods, it's best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob isn't working as it should. You can buy replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in the car when you purchase it.
First, you'll need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or on the actual key fob. The most popular kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know what kind of battery it uses. Most key fobs are constructed with a seam or notch where they join together and can be opened by using your fingers or by using the flat side of a screwdriver. After the key fob is 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 are available at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery and test the key fob to confirm that all buttons work properly. You can determine if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob, while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle still doesn't respond to the keyfob, you may require reprogramming the fob and establish a wireless connection. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure and requires only the use of a smartphone or another device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it needs to be replaced It may not require an entirely new battery, but instead the old one has to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle and the best option is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to accomplish this.
In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This typically involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a specific time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which will save it. The fob will work like a regular key after it has been programmed.
It's important to note that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, large retailers, or even online. remote car key repair must know the model and make before you purchase a key fob since it isn't easy to locate the correct battery.
A CR editor found an battery for her key fob, however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Luckily, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Dealers are required to carry out this service on some European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the fob in a replacement as they knew the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob, but you still cannot start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of pressure and jostling and can get damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob, the unique code is sent in a sequence that the vehicle's receiver is able to recognize. When you try to operate your car from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the experience and tools necessary to diagnose and fix a variety of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks like fixing broken buttons or cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is constructed of hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key for. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to make it work. This could further damage the switch and decrease the life span of the switch.
The most effective solution to this issue is to replace the battery on your car key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button batteries which you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery the key fob will work once more.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts inside the key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which can wear out over time. They are exposed to elements when you use the key and are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear down to the point where they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, however it could be costly and take a long time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob for an affordable price.