The One Car Key Button Repair Mistake Every Newbie Makes
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are subjected to a lot, especially if they are often used. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
There are a few easy solutions that will get your keys back to working. However, these methods have the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not confident doing these yourself, it is recommended to consult an expert auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in your vehicle when you purchase it.
The first thing you'll have to do is find out which battery your key fob uses. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most popular type of battery in keyfobs 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.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob is using you can open it up and take out the old battery. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or a seam between them which you can either open with your fingers, or by using the flat side of a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed after which you can snap the two parts of the key fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. This is a fairly easy process that requires a phone or other device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having trouble with your key fob, and you think it needs a new one It may not be required to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This procedure differs for each vehicle. To find out how to go about it go through the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
The majority of 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 a few times while pressing the fob's button within a specified time. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which then will save it. The fob functions as an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
It is important to know that the process of reprogramming a key fob can wipe out any other key fobs that have been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
There are a few replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or online. You will need to know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob because it may be difficult to find the right battery.
A CR editor found an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned however, it was for a different vehicle. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't in a position to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this situation, since they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset at the factory. Other dealers we spoke to such as those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to attempt reprogramming a replacement fob as provided you know the exact make and model of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent out in a sequence that the vehicle's receiver is able to recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognise you. car key repairs may close the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting a replacement key.
The switch on the car key button is typically worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic and it has several different switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key to activate. As the switch gets older it becomes harder to activate these functions. In the end, you'll have to press harder on the switch to enable it to function. This could further damage the switch and shorten the life span of the switch.
The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery in the key fob of your car. You can find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts inside your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to dust and moisture. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they can no longer make contact the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and can take quite a while. You can also call an emergency locksmith who will repair your key fob for less.