What You Need To Do With This Car Key Button Repair
What You Need To Do With This Car Key Button Repair
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons undergo a lot of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. Over time, they can become damaged.
There are a few easy fixes that can get your keys working again. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Altering batteries or altering your key fob can be risky. If you're not confident with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you notice that your key fob is not working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers offer a spare battery with your car when you buy it.
You will first need to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or on the actual key fob. The most commonly used battery used in the key fob is a button cell type similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob when you know which type of battery it is using. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they connect. Once the key fob has been opened the battery will pop out. It is then possible to replace it in the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at many stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can join the two halves together after inserting the new battery and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob to establish an internet connection between the two. This is a fairly simple process that only requires your phone or another device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having issues with your key fob, and you think it's time to replace it It may not be required to replace it. Instead, the old battery may require reprogramming. This process is different for each vehicle. To learn how to do it, consult your owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
The majority of modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle into 'programming mode,' which usually involves pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing a button on the fob within a certain time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it. Once the fob is programmed, it will perform the same way as a normal key.
Reprogramming a repair car key fob fob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
You can often find replacement batteries for your key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. However, you must know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right type isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor once found an appropriate battery for the key fob she owned, but it was for a different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and open the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this regard, since they have the tools to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as those made by Audi and BMW, will usually require an authorized dealer for this service since they utilize specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as long as you knew the exact make and model 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 the key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot use and jostling and can be damaged or stuck over time. When you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent in a pattern that the receiver inside the vehicle is able to recognize. Trying to operate your vehicle from a distance without the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to consult the experts when you're having issues with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These experts have the tools and expertise to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complicated jobs such as fixing damaged buttons or cutting a replacement key.
One of the main reasons for a car key button to stop working is that the switch inside it has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically made of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch gets older it becomes harder to turn on these functions. In the end, you'll have to press down more force on the switch to get it to work. This can cause further damage to the switch, further diminishing its lifespan.
The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery on the key fob of your car. Many models of car use lithium-ion button or coin batteries that you can find at pharmacies, supermarkets, and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work once more.
If the problem persists it could be that the contacts in the key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film, which can wear down over time. They are exposed to elements when you use the key and are constantly 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 under the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, however it's costly and take a long time. Another alternative is to contact a local car locksmith, who can repair your key fob and save you money.