Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take lots of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. Over time, they can be damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick fixes to get your keys back to working. However, these methods have the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It's possible to replace the battery in the case that your key fob isn't working as it should. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store, or the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare 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. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob itself. The most commonly used type of battery found in keyfobs is the button cell that is similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These kinds of batteries are typically available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer and are available for under $5 for a set of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has you can open it 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 notch or seam where they join. After the key fob is been opened, the battery will come out. Then, you can replace it with the same orientation. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily available at many retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
After the new battery has been inserted, you can connect the two halves of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons are functioning correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine if everything is working exactly as it should. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram your key fob and establish an electronic connection between the two. It's an easy procedure and only requires the use of a phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Highly recommended Resource site
If you're having issues with your key fob, and you think that it's time to get a new one, it might not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for each car. To learn how to do it, consult your owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In modern vehicles, a specific procedure is required to put the vehicle in "programming mode". This typically involves pressing the power button multiple times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a specific time frame. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, and then saves it. The fob will work like a regular key after it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. However, you must be aware of the model and make of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right type isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor found the battery for her key fob, however, it came from another vehicle. This meant that although she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this regard, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for a specific vehicle. Some European vehicles, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require you to go to a dealer to get this service since they utilize specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Certain dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement in the event that you could identify the exact model and brand of your car.
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 the button on the key. The car key button gets many uses and jerking over time and can become stuck or broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a sequence which the receiver inside the vehicle is able to recognize. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance without using the proper code could cause it to not be able to 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 easy to open up and install and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key button it could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They are equipped with the tools and expertise to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated jobs such as fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary 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 a specific function that you use the key for. As the switch age it becomes harder to activate these functions. In the end, you'll need to push harder on the switch in order to enable it to function. This could cause more damage to the switch, reducing its life span.
The most straightforward solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside your car key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will work once you have replaced the battery.
If the problem persists it could be because the contacts on your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered with an electrical conducting film that wears out. When you use the keypad, they are continuously exposed to moisture and dust. Over time, they become worn to the point that they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced by visiting an auto dealer, but this could be expensive and could take a long time. The other option is to call a local car locksmith who can repair your key fob and help you save money.