Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are exposed to a lot particularly if they are used frequently. Over time, they can become damaged.
There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys working again. These solutions are not without risk however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's recommended to contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob is no longer working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries in any chain drugstore nationwide or in the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
First, you'll need to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. This information is usually available on the web site of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. The most popular type of battery found in a keyfob 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 box of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob once you know what kind of battery it has. The majority of key fobs are made with a seam or notch between them and can be opened by using your fingers or by using a flat tool like a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will pop out. You can then replace it in the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery and test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function correctly. You can verify that everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob to establish an electronic connection between the two. Luckily, remote key fob repair is a relatively easy process and only requires the use of your phone or other device to accomplish this.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but rather the original one must be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car. To find out how to do it go through 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 the majority of modern vehicles, a specific procedure is required to put the vehicle into "programming mode". This typically involves pressing the power button multiple times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on the fob within the time frame specified. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which then stores it. The fob will work like a regular key after it has been programmed.
It is important to know that the process of reprogramming a key fob can erase any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. 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 in hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. You must know your car's make and model before you purchase a fob as it isn't easy to locate the right battery.
A CR editor found the battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can assist in this case, as most of them have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into a specific car. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European cars such as Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an alternative key fob provided you knew the exact model and year of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it may be time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of use and jostling and can get damaged or stuck over time. Each press of the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code could cause it to not recognize you and shut the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at many local hardware stores. It is simple to install buttons and they are very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key button it could be time to call in the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They are equipped with 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 jobs like fixing a broken button or even cutting a replacement key.
The switch inside the car key button is often worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is made from an extremely hard plastic with many switches on its surface. Each switch 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 each of these functions. This means that you'll have to press down more force on the switch to enable it to function. This could further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery the key fob will be working again.
If the problem persists it may be that the contacts on your key fob's device have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and covered by an electrical conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the keypad, so they're constantly being exposed to dirt and moisture. Eventually, they will wear down to the point that they no longer make contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, but it can be expensive and takes a lot of time. The other alternative is to contact an auto locksmith in your area, who will be able to fix your key fob and help you save money.