Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure and are especially vulnerable if often used. Over time, they can become damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to make your keys work again. These solutions are not completely safe however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be risky. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob is not working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include an extra key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
The first thing you'll have to do is determine what battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell similar to the ones used in watches and remote controls. 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 once you know what kind of battery it has. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they join. After the fob has been opened, the battery will pop right out and you can then put in the new one with the same orientation as the old one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons function properly. You can test if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an internet connection between the two. This is a easy process that requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't work and you think it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require the replacement of a battery, but rather the old one has to be reprogrammed. This procedure varies for each vehicle and the best option is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the automaker's website) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to accomplish this.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on the fob within a specific time frame. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in memory. The fob will work like a regular key after it has been programmed.
It is important to know that changing the programming of a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. But, it is important to know the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be tricky to find.
A CR editor once came across an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned, but it was for a different car. This meant that although she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't capable of lowering the windows.
Luckily, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into a specific car. Some European vehicles, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require a dealer to get this service since they utilize special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme a replacement key fob 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 or reprogramming the key fob but cannot start your car, it may 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 can get damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is transmitted in a sequence which the vehicle's receiver is able to recognize. Trying to operate your car from a distance without using the proper code could cause it not to recognise you and shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to install and open and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems 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 identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is made of hard plastic and has several 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 over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. As a result, you will need to press down harder on the switch to enable it to function. This could further damage the switch and decrease the life span of the switch.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery the key fob will work once more.
If car key repair service persists it could be because the contacts inside your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which can wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are constantly exposed to dust and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced at an auto dealer, but this can be expensive and could take a long time. You can also contact an expert locksmith in your area who can repair your key fob for less.