Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are subjected to a lot and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. As time passes, they may be damaged.
There are a few quick fixes that will allow your keys back in working order. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob no longer works as it should. You can buy replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers offer a spare battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.
First, you'll need to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website, or you can check the key fob itself. The most common kind of battery that is found in a keyfob is the button cell that is similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These kinds of batteries are commonly available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer and are available for under $5 for a set of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob uses you can remove it and take out the old battery. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or seam between them and can be opened with your fingers, or using a flat tool like a screwdriver. After the key fob has been opened the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same design. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed After that, you can connect the two parts of the key fob together and check that all buttons are functioning properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle will help determine if everything is working as it should be. If car key lock repair near me G28CarKeys doesn't respond to the fob, you might have to reset the fob and establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob does not function and you believe it's time to replace it, it may not need a new battery, but rather the old one needs to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for each car. To learn the procedure go through the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle in 'programming mode,' which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing a button on the fob within a specific time period. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which saves it. Once the fob has been programmed, it can behave as a normal key.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
You can often find replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. However, you must know the make and model of your car before purchasing a fob battery because the right kind isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor found the battery for her key fob, however, it was from another vehicle. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the tools to reprogram the fob on a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to attempt reprogramming the fob in a replacement as long as you knew the exact make and model of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, but you're still unable to start your car, it's time to replace that button on your key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and may get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob, an individual code is sent out in a sequence which the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognize you. It may 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 buttons and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key it could be time to contact the experts. 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 that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated tasks such as fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.
The switch on the car key button is usually worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is made from an extremely hard plastic with multiple switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function that you use the key for. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes harder to activate these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch to get it to work. This can further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.
The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery on the key fob of your car. It is easy to find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem continues, it may be that the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear down over time. They are exposed to the elements when you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear down to the point where they are unable to contact with the circuit board, or the sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced by going to an auto dealer, but this could be expensive and may take a long time. You can also contact a local locksmith who will repair your key fob for a lower price.