Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on car keys are subjected to a lot and are especially vulnerable if often used. In time, they could be damaged.

There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back in working order. These methods do not come completely safe, however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult a professional auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you're noticing that your key fob no longer working as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.

The first thing you will need to do is find out which battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the website of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. The most popular type of battery found in the keyfob is the button cell, which is similar to those found in watches and remotes. These types of batteries are found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer, and can be bought at less than $5 for a set of two.

You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know the type of battery it has. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the notch or Car Key Button Repair seam where they join. After the fob has been opened, the battery will pop right out and you can insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.

You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons are functioning correctly. You can verify that everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle isn't responding to the keyfob, you may have to reset the fob to establish a wireless connection. It's a relatively easy process and requires the use of your smartphone or another device to accomplish this.

Reprogram your key fob

If you're experiencing issues with your key fob, and you think it needs a new one however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may require reprogramming. This procedure varies for each vehicle and the best option is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos on how to do this.

Most 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 several times while pressing the fob's button within a specific time period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. The fob functions as normal keys once it has been programmed.

Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.

You can often find replacement batteries for your car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or on the internet. But, it is important to know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery can be tricky to find.

A CR editor discovered an battery for her key fob however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that while she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.

Luckily, dealers can assist you in this instance in this case, since they have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European cars such as Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to, including those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme an original fob so they knew the exact model and make of the vehicle you are driving.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, but still haven't been able to start your car keys repair it's time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of pressure and jolting and may be damaged or stuck over time. Every time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance without the correct code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and shut the doors or turn off the engine.

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

Contact an Auto Locksmith

If you're having trouble with your car key button, it may be time to call in the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair car key fob of electronic keys and locks. They have the experience and tools needed to identify and fix a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated jobs such as fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.

One of the most frequent reasons for a car key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. This is due to excessive use and exposure to elements. The switch is constructed of hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function that you select with the key. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes harder to activate these functions. This means that you will need to press down more force on the switch in order to get it to work. This could further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.

The most straightforward solution to this problem is to replace the battery in your car key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery the key fob will be working again.

If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts on your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrical conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. Over time, they wear down to the point where they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.

The dealer can replace the key fob, but it can be expensive and take a lot of time. The other option is to contact a local locksmith for your car who will be able to fix your key fob and help you save money.