Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. In time, they could be damaged.
There are a variety of quick solutions to get your keys working again. These methods do not come completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not confident with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries in any national chain drugstore or in the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery with the car when you purchase it.
It is first necessary to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. The most popular kind of battery that is found in the keyfob is the button cell that is like the ones found in remotes and watches. These types of batteries are commonly available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer and can be bought at less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob after you know the type of battery it is using. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver at the seam or notch where they connect. After the fob has been opened, the battery should come out, and you can insert the new one in the same direction as the old one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
After the new battery has been installed, you can take the two parts of the key fob back together and test it to ensure that all buttons work correctly. You can determine if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle. If your car does not respond to the fob, you might require reprogramming the fob and establish a wireless connection. Luckily, this is quite simple and requires only the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't work and you believe it's time to replace it It may not require an entirely new battery, but instead the original one must be reprogrammed. This process varies by car so the best way to find out is to refer to the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to do this.
Modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing the fob's button within a specific time period. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it in the memory. The fob functions as normal keys once it has been programmed.
It's important to note that changing the programming of a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that had been programmed previously. If you wish to keep the other fobs after the first, they must be reprogrammed quickly and with care.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or online. However, you must be aware of the model and make of your car before buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor stumbled across a battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant she was able to start her car and open the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this case, as they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. Certain European vehicles, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW typically require a dealer to get this service because they use special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to such as those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an original fob so provided you know the exact model and make of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and programming the key fob, but you still not being able to start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot of use and jostling, and it can get damaged or stuck over time. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a sequence that the receiver in the vehicle is able to recognize. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts when you're having issues 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 knowledge to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated jobs such as fixing broken buttons or cutting a replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a mobile car key repair near me car key switch to stop working is that the switch inside it has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic material and has a variety of switches on its surface. Each of these switches activates the function for which you use the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. You will need to apply more pressure to the switch in order to make it work. This can cause more damage to the switch, reducing its longevity.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should be working again.
If the issue persists, it could be that the contacts in your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity conducting film, which could wear down over time. They are exposed to the elements as you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear down to the point where they can no longer make contact the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced at a car dealership, however this could be expensive and may take an extended time. The other option is to contact an auto locksmith in your area, who can fix your key fob and save you money.