Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

When they are tossed around in pockets and purses key fob buttons may deteriorate and fail to register presses accurately. Replacing the small battery, which a majority of car fobs are equipped with in a snap-out case, Repair Car Keys can fix this issue.

However, a new replacement is not likely to restore your key fob if its internal switch contacts are worn out. There's an easy fix that you can do at home:

Replace the Battery

If your key fob is feeling slow or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is one of those simple tasks you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that could save you the hassle of an expert locksmith or a dealership.

You can purchase coins-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general store. The key fobs usually have a slot to accept these batteries, and opening the case for battery replacement is quite simple. Depending on the manufacturer you will need to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Some key fobs come with clips which hold the battery in place. If so then gently lift them up using your fingers or a non-metallic tool. Remove the old battery and install the new one, but be cautious to note the orientation so that you can put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries as this could reduce their lifespan.

Close the case of the key fob and test the function by pressing the button. If the key fob doesn't function, you may have to open it again and make sure the battery is properly inserted.

You may also find that simply replacing the battery is not enough to resolve the issue. This could be due to physical or electrical trauma. In this case, you will have to bring your key fob to a dealership or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four problems that a replacement battery cannot solve. You must be aware of these issues, to be able to get help from a trained technician if you need it. You can also read how to fix the faulty transmitter of a key fob to discover the reason it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

Keeping your key fob clean is crucial to its function and life. Over time the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can accumulate in the key fob buttons and crevices. This can lead to the keys not to work. It's easy enough to fix, though all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery away with the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Make sure to note down the type of battery it's (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you re-insert it correctly when you are finished.

Then, wet a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin taking off the dirt from all of the fob's buttons and the surrounding areas. Pay particular attention to the contacts of the battery and make sure they are clean. Once you're done cleaning the fob, let it and all its components completely dry.

If your fob still won't function after cleaning it, it might be a good idea to reset the system. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for directions on how to do this, and follow them accordingly. If the key fob is dead, this might be enough to bring it back to life.

Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynched it is a great idea to keep up with 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 are equipped with more features, are safer, and more convenient than they ever were, they can still encounter some problems. Fortunately, most times problems aren't severe or complicated and are often solved with simple solutions such as replacing the battery. If the issue is severe or cannot be resolved by simple techniques such as auto repair shops, they will replace and reset your key fob.

Making your car lock or unlock using the key fob is the principal purpose of the device, however, it can also be used to enable certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lower or raise the sunroof. This feature can be very useful if you need to open the roof when stuck in traffic or when your hands are full. The key fob can also be useful in summoning your car when it's parked in a difficult location.

The key fob's internal circuitry and buttons may fail due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. The signs could include intermittent behavior or failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can sometimes affect the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is wet or contaminated with dust, it will require cleaning prior to being used again.

Replacing the key fob battery or cleaning the contacts could help fix a malfunctioning device but if the device persists to operate in a erratic manner you might need to perform a factory reset. This can clear up system issues and restore operating efficiency of the device.

If you're unsure how to do the factory reset on your device, refer to the website of the manufacturer of your device or the manual of your owner. Some devices require a special tool to complete the reset but you should be able find instructions that apply to the model you're using.

Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car key repair near me car key immobiliser repair locksmith. These professionals can replace and program keyfobs for nearly all car models. Additionally, they can also repair car keys that have chips inside them.