Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on the car keys are subjected to a lot particularly if they are frequently used. This can result in them becoming faulty over time.

There are a few easy solutions that will get your keys back to working. However, these solutions come with the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not comfortable performing these yourself, it is recommended to contact a professional auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

It may be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob isn't working as it should. You can purchase replacement batteries in any chain drugstore nationwide or at the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your car from them.

You will first need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the website of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most commonly used kind of battery that is found in the keyfob is the button cell like the ones found in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.

You can take the old battery off your key fob when you know the type of battery it has. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or seam between them which you can either open with your fingers, or by using a flat tool like a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery will come out, and you can then insert the new one with the same orientation that the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at many stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.

Once the new battery is in place after which you can connect the two pieces of the key lock repair near me fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons work correctly. You can test if everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle still isn't responding to the fob, Repair car key remote you might need to reprogram the fob to establish a wireless connection. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or another device.

Reprogram your key fob

If you're having issues with your key fob, and you think it's time to replace it 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 read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos that explain how to accomplish this.

Modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle in 'programming mode,' which typically involves engaging the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing the fob's button within a certain time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which then stores it. After the fob is programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key.

Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed after the first one.

You can often find replacement batteries for your key fob for your car keys repair at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or online. It is important to be aware of your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to locate the right battery.

A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she had however it was for a different model of car. This meant that while she was able to start the car and open the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.

Dealers can be extremely helpful in this case, as they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. 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 at the factory. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram an alternative key fob in the event that you could identify the exact model and brand of your vehicle.

Replace the Button

If you have tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob and still can't start your car it may be time to replace the button on the key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of use and jolting and may become stuck or damaged over time. Every time you press the button on your car key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.

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

Contact an Auto Locksmith

If you're experiencing a problem with the car key button, it may be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair car key remote of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These specialists have the tools and expertise to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the expertise and Repair car key remote expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.

One of the most common reasons for a car key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is usually made of a tough plastic material and has a variety of switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key for. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. This means that you will need to press down more force on the switch to make it work. This could cause further damage to the switch and reduce the life span of the switch.

The most effective solution to this issue is to replace the battery on the key fob of your car. You can easily find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery the key fob will work again.

If the problem continues, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrical conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to the elements when you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll become worn to the point that they no longer make contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.

The dealership can replace the key fob, however it's costly and take a lot of time. The other alternative is to contact an auto locksmith in your area who will be able to repair your key fob and help you save money.