Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs could be damaged and stop working properly after being jostled in purses and pockets. This issue can be addressed by replacing the battery that is typically found in the snap-out cases of the majority of car fobs.

But, a new one could not be able to revive your key fob if the switch's internal contacts are worn out. This is a straightforward fix you can perform at home.

Replace the Battery

If your key fob is feeling slow or takes longer than usual to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is among those easy tasks you can do yourself. This is a simple fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealership or locksmith.

You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or links.musicnotch.com general retailer. The key fobs usually have a slot that can accept the batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is fairly straightforward. Depending on the manufacturer you might need to use a screwdriver in order to open the compartment.

Some key fobs come with clips that secure the battery in place; If so, gently lift these up using your fingers or a non-metallic tool. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with the new one, but be cautious to note the orientation so that you can put it in the correct place. It is essential to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces as finger marks can shorten their life.

Once the new battery is installed and the key fob is closed, close its case and test it by pushing the button to confirm it works. If the key fob still doesn't function, you may have to reopen it and make sure the battery is correctly inserted.

It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to solve the issue, like physical or electrical injury. In this scenario, you will need to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. However, before you do this, you should be aware of four common issues that a battery replacement won't solve. It is important to be aware of these problems so that you're able to seek out a qualified technician if necessary. It is also important to learn how to repair a key fob's defective transmitter to learn more about the reasons it may not be working properly.

Clean the Contacts

It is essential to keep your key fobs clean in order to maintain their functionality and longevity. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can build up in the key fob buttons and crevices. This can cause the keys not to work. It's not difficult to fix all you need is some rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery out with the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Be sure to note the kind of battery it is (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you put it back in the correct way when you are finished.

Then, wet a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleansing the dirt off all buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Be particular about the battery contacts, making sure they are free of dirt or grease. When you are done, let the fob and 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 to find out how to reset the system. If the key fob was just dead, this might be enough to bring it back to life.

It is essential to keep the key fob on a regular basis after it is cleaned and resynchronized. By wiping it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, you can be sure that your key fob will continue to perform well for years to come.

Reset the system

Although today's modern key fobs are equipped with more features, are safer, and are more convenient than ever before, they can still encounter some issues. Fortunately, most of the time the issues aren't major or complex, and can be fixed with simple methods like replacing the battery. If the issue is more serious or cannot be resolved by simple techniques, an auto repair shop will replace and reprogram your key fob.

The ability to lock or unlock using the key fob is the primary purpose of the device, however, it can also be used to activate some vehicle key repairs features. The key fob can be used to lift or lower the sunroof. This feature is very helpful when you're stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can be used to summon your car keys repairs when it's located in a tight place.

The internal circuitry of a key fob can malfunction due to defects in manufacturing or wear and tear. It could be a sign of erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can occasionally interfere with the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is damp or contaminated by dust, it will require cleaning prior to being used again.

Replacing the battery on the key fob or cleaning the contacts might fix a malfunctioning device, however, if it continues to malfunction you might need to do a factory reset. This will eliminate bugs in the system and restore the operating efficiency of the device.

If you're not sure how to perform a factory reset on your device, check the website of the manufacturer of your device or the owner's manual. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you should find instructions specific to the model you have.

Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to fix problems with your keyfob. They are able to replace and program key fobs for nearly all models of automobiles. In addition, they can also repair car keys with chips in the keys.