Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
There are a variety of quick solutions to get your keys back to working. car remote key repair near me are not completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob's security can be risky. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is best to consult a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob is not functioning as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or in the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
You will first need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or on the key fob itself. Generally, the most common battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell type, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. These types of batteries are available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought for less than $5 for a set of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has then you can open it and take out the old battery. Most key fobs are designed with a seam or notch where they join together, which you can open by using your fingers, or with an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery should pop right out and you can insert the new one in the same direction as the previous one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons function properly. You can verify that all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram your key fob to establish a wireless connection between the two. It's an easy procedure and requires the use of your phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and think it's time to replace it however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This process varies by car so the best way to find out is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on 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 several times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. Once the fob is programmed, it will perform the same way as a normal key.
It is important to remember that reprogramming a key fob will erase any other key fobs which have been previously programmed. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars at hardware stores, large retailers, or even on the internet. You must know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob because it isn't easy to find the right battery.
A CR editor once came across a battery that fit the key fob she used however it was for a different vehicle. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke with, including those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an original fob so long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob and still not being able to start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Each time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is transmitted in a sequence which the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognize you. It might lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the expertise and tools necessary to diagnose 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 tasks, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch in the car key button is often worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is typically made of a tough plastic material and it has several different switches on the surface. Each of these switches activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages it becomes harder to turn on these functions. In the end, you'll need to push down more force on the switch to get it to work. This can cause further damage to the switch, further diminishing its longevity.
The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside your car key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery the key fob will work again.
If the problem continues, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to elements when you use the key and are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. In time, they'll become worn until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, but it could be costly and take a lot of time. The other option is to contact a local car locksmith who can repair your key fob and save you money.