Car Key Button Repair The buttons on the car keys are subjected to a lot and are especially vulnerable if often used. key fob repair service can lead to them becoming damaged over time. There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back to working. These methods do not come completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with the key fob could be risky. If you're not confident doing these things yourself, it's recommended to consult a professional auto locksmith. Change the Battery If you are noticing that your key fob is no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them. It is first necessary to determine the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically available on the website of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most commonly used type of battery in a keyfob is the button cell, which is like the ones found in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two. If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has you can open it and remove the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they connect. Once the key fob has been opened the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at many stores that sell AAA and AA batteries. You can join the two halves together after you have inserted the new battery, and then test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function properly. You can test if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle isn't responding to the key fob, you may have to reset the fob to establish wireless connectivity. This is a relatively straightforward process that requires your phone or a different 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 the replacement of a battery, but rather the old one has to be reset. This procedure is different for each car. To learn how to do it 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 most modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob within the time frame specified. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which will save it. Once the fob has been programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key. It is important to remember that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. Therefore, if you want to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one. You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. You will need to know the make and model before you purchase a fob because it may be difficult to find the right battery. A CR editor found a battery that fit the key fob she had 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 a great resource in this situation, since they have the tools to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require a dealer to get this service because they use special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with like those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming the fob in a replacement as provided you know the exact model and make of the car you own. Replace the Button If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob but cannot start your car, it might be time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot use and jolting and may get damaged or stuck over time. Every time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent in a sequence which the receiver in the vehicle is able to recognize. If you attempt to operate your car from a distance without using the correct code could cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or turn off the engine. You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the old button. Contact an Auto Locksmith It could be time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They have the tools and know-how to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complex tasks, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key. One of the main reasons for a car key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary causes. The switch is made from an extremely hard plastic with several switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function that you select with the key. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes harder to activate these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to get it to work. This can cause more damage to the switch, thereby reducing its life span. The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery on your car's key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries that you can find at pharmacies, supermarkets, and home improvement stores. Your key fob should be working after replacing the battery. If the problem continues, it may be that your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electric conducting film, which can wear down over time. They are exposed to elements when you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. Over time, they get worn down to the point that they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad. You can try to have the key fob replaced by going to a vehicle dealership, but it can be costly and may take quite a while. You can also call an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob for an affordable price.
key fob repair service
