Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are subjected to a lot and are especially vulnerable if often used. Over time, they can become faulty.
There are a few simple fixes that can get your keys back to working. These methods are not without risk however. Altering batteries or altering the key fob could be dangerous. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended to contact a professional auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to replace the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can typically purchase replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery in your vehicle when you purchase it.
The first thing you will have to do is determine what battery your key fob uses. This information is typically available on the manufacturer's website or by checking the key fob. The most popular type of battery in a keyfob is the button cell similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses then you can remove it and remove the old battery. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or a seam that connects them which you can either open with your fingers, or with a flat tool like a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery will be able to pop out and you can insert the new one in the same orientation that the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
After the new battery has been inserted After that, you can take the two parts of the key fob together and check that all buttons work correctly. You can verify that all functions are working correctly 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 necessary to reprogram the key fob and establish an internet connection between the two. This is a fairly simple process that only requires a phone or other device.
repair keys near me
If your key fob does not work and you think it needs to be replaced, it may not need the replacement of a battery, but instead the old one has to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for each vehicle. To learn the procedure, consult your owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the website of the automaker. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Modern automobiles require a particular procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specified time. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. The fob will work like an ordinary key once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be reprogrammed swiftly and with care.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. You will need to be aware of your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob as it may be difficult to locate the correct battery.
A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she used however, it was for a different model of car. This meant that, while she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't in a position to lower the windows.
Luckily, dealers can assist in this case and most dealers have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features which can only be reset at the factory. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram a replacement key fob provided you knew the exact model and year of your vehicle.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob and still cannot start your car, it could be time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or damaged. Each time you press the button on your key fob emits a different code that is recognised by the car's receiver. If you try to operate your vehicle from some distance, it might not recognise you. It might lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the tools and know-how to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the skills and expertise to tackle more complex tasks such as fixing damaged buttons or cutting a replacement key.
The switch in the button for the car key is usually worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is made of an extremely hard plastic with multiple switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch to activate it. This could result in more damage to the switch, further reducing its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion button or coin batteries which you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem continues, it could be because your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear down over time. When you use the key, they are exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear down to the point where they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or the sensor underneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by visiting a car dealership, however it can be costly and could take quite a while. You can also call an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob for less.