Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on keys for cars are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are often used. In time, they could become damaged.

There are a few simple fixes that will allow your keys back to working. These methods do not come without risk, however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be risky. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you notice that your key fob 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 the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers offer a spare battery with your car when you buy it.

The first thing you will need to determine what battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or on the key fob's specifications. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in key fobs is a button cell similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.

You can take the old battery off your key fob after you know the type of battery it is using. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or a seam where they join together and can be opened by using your fingers, or by using the flat side of a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same design. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.

Once the new battery is inserted after which you can connect the two pieces of the key fob back together and check that all buttons are functioning properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle will help determine whether or not everything is functioning in the way it should. If your car does not respond to the fob, you might need to reprogram the fob and establish an internet connection. This is a fairly easy process that requires your phone or a different device.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe it's time to replace it however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the old battery might need to be reprogrammed. This process is different for each vehicle. To learn how to do it you must consult the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button several times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a time-specific period. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then stores it. The fob functions as normal keys once it is programmed.

It is important to know that reprogramming a key fob will erase any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.

Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. However, you must know the make and model of your car before purchasing a battery for your fob because the right type isn't always easy to locate.

A CR editor fobs once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she used however, it was for a different model of car. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.

Dealers can be a great resource in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on the specific vehicle key repairs. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they come with 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 attempt reprogramming an original fob so they knew the exact make and model of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob and still can't start your car it could be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives many uses and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver inside the vehicle can recognize. Trying to operate your car from a distance without using the correct code can cause it to not be able to recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to install and open and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to consult the experts when you're having issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair keys near me of electronic keys and locks. They are equipped with the tools and expertise to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the skills and expertise to tackle more complicated jobs like fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.

The switch on the car key button is usually worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is made from a hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch gets older, it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. This means that you will need to press down harder on the switch to enable it to function. This could further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.

The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside the key fob of your car. The majority of cars have lithium-ion button or coin batteries which 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 could be because the contacts on your key fob's device have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are continuously exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they are unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.

You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and could take quite a while. You can also call an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob at an affordable price.