Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. Over time, they can become damaged.

There are a variety of quick fixes to get your keys back to working. These methods are not without risk however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult an auto locksmith professional.

Change the Battery

If you're noticing that your key fob not functioning as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries at any national chain drugstore or at the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery in the car when you purchase it.

It is first necessary to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website, remote control car key repairs or you can check the key fob's specifications. Generally, the most common battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell type that is similar to the ones used in watches and remote control car key repairs controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.

You can remove the old battery from your key fob once you know which type of battery it is using. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they connect. After the fob has been opened, the battery should pop right out and you can insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.

Once the new battery is installed, you can connect the two pieces of the key fob together and check that all buttons work correctly. You can verify that everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle still doesn't respond to the key fob, you may require reprogramming the fob and establish a wireless connection. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or a different device.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If your key fob doesn't work and you believe it's time to replace it, keyrepair it may not need the replacement of a battery, but rather the old one needs to be reset. This procedure varies for each vehicle so the best way to find out is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the automaker's website) or look on YouTube for videos on how to do this.

In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob in the time frame specified. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which then will save it. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it is programmed.

It is important to remember that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must 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. You must know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it isn't easy to locate the right battery.

A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob, however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that although she could start the car and open the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.

Luckily, dealers can assist in this case and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset at the factory. Certain dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement provided you knew the exact model and make of your vehicle.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and you're still unable to start your car, it might be time to replace that button on your key. Your car key button receives lots of use and jostling over the years and may get stuck or damaged. Every time you press the button on your key fob releases a distinct code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance without using the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.

You can purchase replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to install and open and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It's time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car keys repairs's key button. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the experience and tools required to recognize and fix a range of issues with your key fob, including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.

One of the main 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 made of an extremely hard plastic with many switches on its surface. Each of these switches activates the function for which you are using the key. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes harder to activate these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch to get it to work. This could cause more damage to the switch, further decreasing its lifespan.

Replace the battery in your key fob. It is easy to locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now be working after replacing the battery.

If the issue persists, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and covered by an electrically conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to elements when you use the key and are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they're unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.

You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a car dealership, however it can be costly and may take quite a while. You can also call an expert locksmith in your area who will repair your key fob for an affordable price.