Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Being tossed around in pockets and purses keys fobs can be damaged and not register presses reliably. Replacing the battery, which most car fobs are equipped with in a snap-out case, can fix this problem.

If the contacts on your key fob have damaged, a new replacement may not be enough to revive it. It's a good thing that this is an easy fix you can try at home:

Replace the battery

It could be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it isn't working properly or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than usual. It's good news that replacing a key fob's battery is one of the most simple tasks that you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that could save you the hassle of an expert locksmith or a dealership.

The majority of key fobs need the use of a coin-type battery (CR2032 or similar) which can be found at any general store or home improvement store or auto parts store. The key fobs usually have a slot to accept the batteries, repair car keys and opening the case for battery replacement is fairly straightforward. Based on the brand you might need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.

If your key fob has clips that keep the batteries in place, gently remove them with your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Install the new battery, taking care to install it correctly. Be aware of its orientation when removing the old one. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries as this could reduce their lifespan.

Close the case of the key fob and test its function by pressing the button. If the key fob still does not work, you'll have to reopen it and verify that the battery is properly inserted.

There is a chance that simply replacing the battery is not enough to fix the problem. This could be caused by physical trauma or electrical damage. In this scenario you'll be required to take your key fob to a dealership or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do this, there are four issues that replacing the battery won't solve. You should be aware of these issues, to be able to seek assistance from a certified technician if you need it. You should also learn how to repair a defective key fob transmitter to understand the reasons why it might not be functioning properly.

Clean the Contacts

It is important to keep your keys clean to maintain their functionality and longevity. Over time, natural oils from your fingers and pocket lint can accumulate on the buttons and crevices, and can even cause keys to stop working completely. It's simple enough to fix all you need is ruby alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery out using either a screwdriver or coin. Make sure you note the kind of battery it's (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you insert it again correctly after you are finished.

Then, wet a small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and start taking off the dirt from all buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Pay particular attention to the battery's contacts, and that they are clean. Once you are done, you must let the fob and its components completely dry.

If your fob doesn't function after cleaning it, it could be a good idea to reset the system. Consult your owner's manual for instructions on how to do this and follow them. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the problem was due to a dead battery.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynched it is a good idea to keep up with regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob is working well for many years by wiping it clean with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Even though today's high tech key fobs have more features that are safer, more secure, and are more convenient than ever before however, they may still experience some problems. Fortunately, most of the time problems aren't severe or complex, and can be fixed with simple methods such as replacing the battery. If the issue is more serious or is not resolved with simple methods, an auto repair shop will replace and reprogram your key fob.

Getting your car to lock or unlock using the key fob is the main purpose of the device, but it also can be used to activate certain features of your vehicle. The key fob can be used to lift or lower a sunroof. This feature can be very beneficial if you need to open the roof when you are stuck in traffic or your hands are full. Key fobs are also useful for summoning your car key remote repair near me when it's parked in an awkward spot.

The internal circuitry inside the key fob may fail because of manufacturing defects or wear and wear and tear. Symptoms include erratic behavior, or an inability to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can occasionally interfere with the function of the keyfob. If your key fob has become damp or contaminated by dust, it's going to require cleaning prior to being used again.

If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you might have to perform a factory resetting. This can fix system bugs and improve device performance.

If you're unsure of how to do the factory reset on your device, check the device manufacturer's website or the owner's manual. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you'll need to find the correct instructions for your specific model.

Another option for resolving issues with your key fob is to contact an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These experts are able replace and program key fobs for nearly all car models. They can also repair car keys with chips in the keys.