Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Being tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can be damaged and not register presses with accuracy. Replacing the battery, which the majority of car fobs come with in a snap-out case, can fix this problem.

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

Replace the Battery

It may be time to change the battery in your key fob if it isn't working properly or takes longer to unlock or lock your car than usual. Fortunately, replacing a key fob battery is one of the easiest tasks that you can do yourself. It's also a cheap fix that can save you a trip to an expert locksmith or dealer.

The majority of key fobs need the use of a coin-type battery (CR2032 or similar) which you can purchase at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts stores. The key fobs usually come with a slot for the batteries, and opening the case to replace batteries is fairly straightforward. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need to use an instrument such as a screwdriver to open the cover of the battery compartment.

If your key fob is equipped with clips that keep the batteries in place, gently remove them using your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Install the new battery, making sure to put it in the right place. Note its orientation when you remove the old one. It is essential to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces since scratches from fingers can decrease their life.

Once the new battery is installed and the key fob is closed, close its case and test it by pressing the button to confirm it is working. If it still doesn't work, you may need to open the case again and verify that the new battery is properly inserted.

It's also possible that a simple replacement of the battery will not be enough to resolve the problem, such as electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case, you will need to bring your key fob to a dealership or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do this, there are four issues a replacement battery cannot solve. It is important to be aware of these problems so that you're able to seek out an expert technician in the event of need. You can also read how to fix the malfunctioning transmitter of a key fob in order to determine the reason why it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

It is important to keep your key fobs clean to ensure their functionality and longevity. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can accumulate in the key fob's buttons and crevices. This can cause the keys not to work. It's simple enough to fix all you need is some ruby alcohol and a cotton swab.

The key fob must be opened first by gently prying the battery out with the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Note the kind of battery (negative and positive sides) so that you can put it back in the correct way.

Then, wet a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleaning away the dirt from all buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Pay special attention to the battery contacts, making sure that they are free of any dirt or grease. Once you are done, you must let the fob as well as its components completely dry.

If your fob still won't function after cleaning it, it might be an ideal idea to reset the system. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reset the system. 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 keep your key fob working well for many years by wiping it clean with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Although today's ultra-modern key fobs have more features, are safer, and more convenient than ever before however, Repair Car Key they may still experience some problems. Luckily, the majority of the time, these issues aren't serious or complex, and can be fixed with simple methods such as replacing the battery. If the issue is severe or cannot be resolved by simple techniques such as auto Repair Car key shops, they will replace and change the key fob.

Getting your car to lock or unlock with the key fob is the principal purpose of the device, however, it can also be used to enable certain vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature is beneficial if you need to open the roof when you are stuck in traffic or your hands are full. Key fobs are also useful in summoning your car when it's parked in a shady spot.

A key fob's internal circuitry and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. The signs are erratic behavior or the complete inability to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes affect the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is wet or contaminated with dust, it's likely to need to be cleaned before being used again.

Replacing the battery on the key fob or cleaning the contacts might solve a malfunctioning device, but if the device persists to operate in a erratic manner, you may need to perform a factory reset. This will fix system issues and improve device performance.

If you're unsure of how to do the factory reset on your device, check the website of the manufacturer of your device or your owner's manual. Certain devices require special tools to reset them, however you'll need to find the correct instructions for your specific model.

Another option for resolving issues with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These professionals can replace and program keyfobs to fit almost all car models. Additionally, they can also repair key keys for cars with chips in the keys.