Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. In time, they could become damaged.

There are many quick solutions to get your keys back to working. However, these solutions come with risks associated with changing batteries or altering the key fob repair fob. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.

Change the Battery

It could be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can purchase replacement batteries in any national chain drugstore or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers include a spare battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.

The first thing you'll need to do is find out which battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or on the key fob's specifications. The most commonly used battery used in key fobs is a button cell type similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.

If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses you can open it up and take out the old battery. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver at the seam or notch at which they join. After the key fob has been opened the battery will come out. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at many retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.

After the new battery has been in place after which you can take the two pieces of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is working in the way it should. If your vehicle still doesn't respond to the fob, you might have to reset the fob to establish wireless connectivity. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure and only requires the use of your phone or other device to perform the procedure.

Reprogram your key fob

If you're having trouble with your key fob and believe it needs a new one It may not be necessary to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This procedure varies for each vehicle, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos explaining how to accomplish 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 several times on the driver's door Car Key Button Repair or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob in a specific time frame. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it. After the fob is programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key.

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

There are a few replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. You must know your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it isn't easy to locate the right battery.

A CR editor once found a battery that fit the key fob she had, but it was for a different car. This meant that although she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.

Dealers can be extremely helpful in this regard, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke with, including those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to attempt reprogramming the fob in a replacement as provided you know the exact make and model of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, but still can't start your car it could be time to replace that button on your key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot of use and jostling, and it can be damaged or stuck over time. Every time you press the button on your key fob, the unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your car from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They are equipped with the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as repairing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.

One of the most frequent reasons for a car key switch to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to the elements. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic material and it has several different switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch ages it becomes harder to turn on these functions. In the end, you'll have to press down harder on the switch to enable it to function. This could result in more damage to the switch, further decreasing its life span.

Replace the battery in your key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries that you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery, your key fob should work once more.

If the problem persists it could be because the contacts in your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered with an electrical conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements when you use the keypad and are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they're unable to contact with the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.

The dealer can replace the key fob, but it could be costly and take a long time. You can also contact an expert locksmith in your area who will repair your key fob at an affordable price.