Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Getting jostled around in pockets and purses keys repair fobs can get damaged and stop registering presses accurately. This issue can be resolved by replacing the small battery that is usually located in the snap-out case of the majority of car fobs.

If the contacts inside your key fob have worn, a new replacement might not be enough to bring it back to life. There's an easy fix that you can attempt at home:

Replace the Battery

If your key fob is feeling sluggish or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Replacing the battery of your key fob is one of the easy tasks you can complete yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealership or a locksmith.

Most automotive key repair fobs require a coin-style battery (CR2032 or similar) which can be found at any general store, home improvement center, or auto parts store. Key fobs typically have a slot to accept these batteries and opening the case to replace batteries is relatively simple. Depending on the manufacturer you might need to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Some key fobs come with clips that hold the battery in place. If this is the case then gently lift them up with your fingers or a non-metallic device. Remove the old battery and install the new one, but be careful to note its orientation so that you can install it correctly. It is essential to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces, as finger marks can shorten their lifespan.

Close the case of the key fob and test the functionality by pressing the button. If it still doesn't work, you may need to open the fob again and check that the battery is properly installed.

It could also be that a simple replacement of the battery is not enough to resolve the issue. This could be due to electrical damage or physical trauma. In this instance you'll have to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four issues the replacement battery can't fix. It is important to be aware of the issues so that you're able to seek out an expert technician in the event of need. You should also read about how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to find out more about why it may not be working properly.

Clean the Contacts

It is essential to keep your keys clean to ensure their functionality and longevity. Over time, natural oils from your hands and pockets can build up on the key fob's buttons and crevices and even cause the keys to stop functioning completely. It's not difficult to fix - all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery away with either a screwdriver or coin. Make sure to note down the kind of battery it's (negative and positive sides) so that you can insert it again correctly after you're done.

Then, moisten a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and start cleansing the dirt off all of the fob's buttons and the surrounding areas. Pay particular attention to the contacts of the battery, and that they are clean. After you're done, be sure to let the fob as well as its components dry completely.

If your fob doesn't work even after cleaning, you might want to reset the system. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to do this, and follow them accordingly. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the issue was simply due to a dead battery.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynched it is a great idea to ensure regular maintenance. By regularly wiping it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, you can ensure that your key fob will continue to function well for many long time to come.

Reset the system

Despite the fact that today's modern-day key fobs are more powerful and secure than ever, it is possible that they have certain issues. Most of the time, these issues aren’t serious or complex and can be fixed by simple procedures, such as changing the battery. If the problem is more severe, or if the issue can't be solved with simple methods an expert auto repair shop can repair and replace the key fob.

Making your car lock or unlock with the key fob is the main purpose of the device, however, it can also be used to enable certain car features. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof using the key fob. This feature can be very useful when you have to open the roof when stuck in traffic or when your hands are full. The key fob can be used to summon your car when it is parked in a tight location.

The internal circuitry of the key fob could fail due to defects in manufacturing or wear and tear. Signs of this include irregular behavior, or the complete inability to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, or other sources of electromagnetic interference could interfere with the operation of the key fob. If your key fob is dirty or has been wet, it needs to be cleaned before you use it again.

Replacing the key fob battery or cleaning the contacts could solve a malfunctioning device, but if it continues to run erratically you might need to do a factory reset. This will eliminate system issues and restore performance of the device.

If you're not sure how to repair broken car key to reset your device, consult your device's owner's manual or manufacturer's website. Some devices require a special tool to perform the reset, however, you should be able to locate instructions that are applicable to the model you're using.

Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. They are able to replace and program key fobs on almost all car models. In addition, they can also repair Car key car keys with chips in the keys.