You'll Never Guess This Car Key Button Repair's Benefits
You'll Never Guess This Car Key Button Repair's Benefits
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. In time, they could be damaged.
There are a few simple solutions that will get your keys back in working order. However, these solutions come with risks associated with changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it is recommended to contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery if your key fob no longer works as it should. You can find replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you will have to do is find out what kind of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. The most common kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell that is similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These types of batteries are commonly found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer and are available at less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob when you know which type of battery it is using. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or a seam between them which you can either open by using your fingers, or with a flat tool like a screwdriver. After the key fob has been opened, the battery will pop out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed, you can snap the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons function properly. You can determine if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn't respond to the keyfob, you may require reprogramming the fob to establish a wireless connection. It's a relatively easy process and requires the use of a phone or other device to accomplish this.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob does not work and you think it's time to replace it the fact is that it might not require the replacement of a battery, but instead the old one has to be changed. This process varies by car and the best option is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
The majority of modern vehicles require a specific procedure to put the vehicle into "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 certain time frame. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it in its memory. Once the fob is programmed, it will perform the same way as an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs following the first, they must be reprogrammed quickly and carefully.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars at hardware stores, large retailers, or even on the internet. However, you need to know the make and model of your car before buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor stumbled across the battery for her key fob however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that, while she was able to start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Luckily, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob for specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on certain European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Certain dealers, like auto key repair those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram a replacement key fob provided you knew the exact model and make of your vehicle.
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 the key. The key on your car receives a lot of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Each press of the button on your car key fob emits a different code that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. Trying to operate your car from a distance without using the correct code can cause it not to recognise you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to open and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing a problem with your car key it could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These specialists have the tools and knowledge to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated tasks, such as repairing damaged buttons or cutting a new replacement key.
One of the main reasons for a car key switch to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic and has a variety of switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function that you select with the key. As the switch age it becomes harder to turn on these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch in order to activate it. This could cause further damage to the switch and decrease its lifespan.
The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery in your car key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button batteries, which you can easily find in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery the key fob will be working again.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film that can wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to dust and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they are unable to contact with the circuit board, or the sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, however it's costly and takes a lot of time. The other option is to call an auto locksmith in your area, who will be able to fix your key fob and save you money.