Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are often used. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
There are a variety of quick fixes to make your keys work again. These solutions are not completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be risky. If you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact a professional auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob is not functioning as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include an extra key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will have to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob's specifications. Generally, the most common battery used in the key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using, you can open it up and remove the old battery. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or seam that connects them, which you can open by using your fingers or with the flat side of a screwdriver. When the fob is opened, the battery will pop right out and you can then insert the new one in the same direction as the previous one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can snap the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery and test the key fob to make sure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is functioning as it should be. If key repair car is still not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob to establish an electronic connection between the two. It's a relatively easy process and only requires the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob and think that it's time to get a new one It may not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may require reprogramming. This procedure is different for every car. To learn the procedure you must consult the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a time-specific period. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then saves it. The fob will work like normal keys once it has been programmed.
It's important to note that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, then they must be reprogrammed quickly and with care.
You can often find replacement batteries for your car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. It is important to know your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to find the right battery.
A CR editor once found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she used however, it was for a different model of car. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not capable of lowering the windows.
Luckily, dealers can assist in this case and most dealers have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to specific cars. Some European vehicles, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW typically require you to go to an authorized dealer for this service due to the fact that they have specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement provided you knew the exact model and brand of your vehicle.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob but not being able to start your car, it might be time to replace the button on the key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. When you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent out in a sequence that the receiver inside the vehicle is able to recognize. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance without 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 at numerous local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are also very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing issues with your car key button it could be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
One of the main reasons for a car key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to the elements. The switch is made of a hard plastic and has many switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key to activate. As the switch gets older, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch to make it work. This could cause further damage to the switch and decrease the life span of the switch.
The most straightforward solution to this problem is to replace the battery in your car's key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists it may be that your key fob's contacts have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and covered with an electrical conducting film that can wear out. When you use the keypad, they are continuously exposed to dust and moisture. Eventually, they will get worn down to the point that they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but this can be expensive and could take quite a while. Another option is to contact a local locksmith for your car, who can fix your key fob and save you money.