Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure and are especially vulnerable if used frequently. This can result in them becoming faulty over time.

There are a few simple solutions that will get your keys back to working. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not confident with these methods, it's best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

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

It is first necessary to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. Generally, the most common battery used in a key fob is a button cell that is similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.

If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has, you can open it up and take out the old battery. It is possible to open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they join. When the fob is opened, the battery should come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction that the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at numerous retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.

You can put the two halves back together after inserting the new battery and test the key fob to make sure that all buttons function correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine whether or not everything is functioning in the way it should. If your vehicle still does not respond to the fob, you might need to reprogram the fob and establish an internet connection. This is a fairly straightforward process that requires your phone or another device.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If your key fob won't work and you think it needs to be replaced It may not require an entirely new battery, but instead the original one must be reprogrammed. This procedure differs for every car. To learn the procedure you must consult the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

The majority of modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specified time. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will perform the same way as a normal key.

Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you wish to keep the other fobs after the first, then they must be reprogrammed quickly and carefully.

You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. You will need to know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it isn't easy to find the right battery.

A CR editor found an appropriate battery for the key fob she had however, it was for a different model of car. This meant she could start her car and open the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.

Luckily, dealers can assist in this case, as most of them have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as those made by Audi and BMW, will usually require a dealer to get this service because they use specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram an alternative key fob if you knew the exact model and year of your car.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, and still can't start your car it's time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets many uses and jerking over time and may get stuck or even broken. Each press of the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code in a sequence that is recognised by the car's receiver. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognize you. It might close the doors or turn off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to install and open and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These experts have the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the knowledge and experience to handle more complicated jobs like fixing a broken button or even cutting a replacement key.

One of the most common reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on the surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the particular function you are using the key to activate. As the switch gets older it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch to make it work. This could cause more damage to the switch, further diminishing its longevity.

The most straightforward solution to this issue is to replace the battery on your car key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion button or coin batteries that you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery the key fob will work again.

If the problem persists it could be because the contacts in your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity conducting film, which could wear out over time. They are exposed to the elements while you use the key which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll wear down until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.

You can attempt to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and may take an extended time. Another option is to contact an auto locksmith in your area who will be able to fix your key fob and save you money.