Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Getting jostled around in purses and pockets, key fob buttons can deteriorate and fail to register presses accurately. Replacing the small battery, which a majority of remote control car Key repairs fobs come with in a snap-out bag, can sometimes fix this issue.

But, a new one could not be able to revive your key fob if the switch's internal contacts are worn out. There's an easy fix that you can attempt at home:

Replace the Battery

It may be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it is slow or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than normal. Replacing a key fob's battery is one of the easy tasks you can complete yourself. It's also a cost-effective fix that can save you a trip to an expert locksmith or dealer.

You can buy a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or general retailer. Key fobs typically have a slot to accept these batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is quite simple. Depending on the manufacturer you might need to use a screwdriver in order to open the compartment.

Some key fobs have clips which hold the battery in place; if so, gently lift these up with your fingers or a non-metallic device. Install the new battery, taking care to put it in the right place. Note its orientation when you remove the old one. It is important to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces since scratches from fingers can decrease their lifespan.

Once the new battery is installed then close the key fob's case and test it by pressing the button to ensure it works. If the key fob still does not work, you'll have to open it again and ensure that the battery is properly inserted.

You may also find that simply replacing the battery is not enough to solve the issue. This could be caused by physical or electrical trauma. In this instance you'll have to take your key fob to a dealership or auto service center for repairs. Before you do that, there are four issues that replacing the battery won't fix. It is crucial to be aware of the problems so that you're in a position to find an expert technician in the event of need. You can also read how to fix the defective transmitter of a key fob in order to discover the reason it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

It is essential to keep your keys clean to ensure their functionality and longevity. Over time, the natural oils of your hands and pockets can accumulate on the keys' buttons and crevices and may cause keys to cease functioning completely. All you need is rubbing alcohol, a cotton swab and some rubbing alcool.

First, you need to open the key fob by removing the lid off using a screwdriver or coin and gently removing the battery. Make sure to note down the type of battery it is (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you re-insert it correctly when you're done.

After that you can make use of a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons and surrounding areas of the fob. Make sure to pay special attention to the contacts of the battery, and that they are clean. After you're done, make sure to let the fob as well as its components dry completely.

If your fob isn't functioning even after cleaning, you might want to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device to learn how to reset the system. This could be able to bring the key fob back to normal if the issue was simply an unresponsive battery.

Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynched it is a good idea to maintain regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob functioning for many years by wiping it clean using a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Although today's ultra-modern key fobs come with more features, are safer, and are more convenient than ever, they can still encounter some issues. Most of the time, these issues aren’t serious or complex and can be solved with simple solutions, like changing the battery. If the issue is more severe or if the issue isn't resolved by simple solutions such as a professional auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.

The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, however you can also use it to activate certain vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof with the key fob. This feature is useful when you have to open the roof when you are stuck in traffic or your hands are full. Similarly, the remote key fob repair fob can be used to summon your car when it is located in a tight location.

The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. Signs of this include irregular behavior, G28 Car Keys or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, car remote key repair as well as other sources of electromagnetic interference could interfere with the operation of the key fob. If your key fob is damaged by dust or become wet, it must be cleaned before you can use it again.

Replacing the key fob battery or cleaning the contacts can fix a malfunctioning device, however, if it continues to run erratically you might need to do a factory reset. This can clear up bugs in the system and restore the performance of the device.

If you're not sure the best way to perform a reset make sure you consult the owner's manual or the manufacturer's site. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you'll need to find the correct instructions for your specific model.

Another option to resolve issues with your key fob is to contact an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. They are able to replace and program key fobs on almost all models of automobiles. They can also repair car keys with chips in them.