Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
When they are tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can get damaged and stop registering presses reliably. This problem can be fixed by replacing the battery that is usually located in the snap-out case of the majority of car fobs.
If the contacts on your key fob have worn, a new replacement may not be enough to make it work again. This is a simple fix that you can perform at home.
Replace the battery
If your key fob feels slow or takes longer than normal to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is one of those simple tasks you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that can save you the hassle of an expert locksmith or dealer.
You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts, home improvement, or general retailer. The key fobs usually come with a slot for these batteries, and opening the case for battery replacement is fairly straightforward. Based on the brand you might need to use a screwdriver in order to open the compartment.
Certain key fobs have clips which hold the battery in place; if so you can gently lift them up with your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Remove the old battery and install the new one, but be cautious to note the orientation in order to put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the batteries as this could reduce their lifespan.
After the new battery has been installed then close the key fob's case and test it by pressing the button to confirm it works. If the key fob still isn't working, you might have to reopen it and verify that the battery is correctly inserted.
It's also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to solve the issue, like electrical damage or physical trauma. In this instance you'll be required to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four issues a replacement battery cannot fix. It is crucial to be aware of the issues so that you're able to seek out an experienced technician should you need. You should also learn how to repair a key fob's defective transmitter to learn more about why it may not be working properly.
Clean the Contacts
It is essential to keep your keys clean to maintain their function and durability. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can accumulate in the key fob's buttons and in the crevices. This can cause keys to not function. All you need is rubbing alcohol, an swab of cotton and alcohol to rub it on.
Open the key fob first by gently prying the battery out with either a screwdriver or coin. Make g28carkeys sure to note down the type of battery it's (negative and positive sides) so that you can re-insert it correctly when you're done.
Then, moisten a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and start cleansing the dirt off all of the fob's buttons and the surrounding areas. Be particular about the battery contacts, ensuring that they are free of dirt or grease. When you are done, let the fob and its components completely dry.
If your device doesn't function after cleaning it, it could be a good idea to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device for instructions on how to reset the system. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the issue was simply due to a dead battery.
It is crucial to maintain the key fob on a regular basis after it has been cleaned and synchronized. You can keep your key fob in good working order for a long time by wiping it clean using a damp towel and mild soap.
Reset the system
Although today's ultra-modern key fobs have more features that are safer and more convenient than ever before but they are still susceptible to some issues. Fortunately, most times, these issues aren't serious or complicated and are often resolved with simple techniques such as replacing the battery. If the issue is more severe, or if the issue cannot be resolved with simple methods an expert auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.
The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also use it to activate certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lower or raise the sunroof. This feature is extremely useful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can also be useful for summoning your car when it's parked in a shady place.
The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons could fail due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs could include erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes affect the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is wet or contaminated with dust, it's likely to need to be cleaned before being used again.
Replacing the battery of your key fob or cleaning the contacts can solve a malfunctioning device, but if the device continues to malfunction you might need to perform a factory reset. This will fix system issues and improve device performance.
If you're unsure of how to do a factory reset on your device, check the website of the manufacturer of your device or the manual of your owner. Certain devices require special tools to reset them, however you'll find instructions for the model you have.
Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These professionals can program and replace keyfobs for almost all car models. They can also repair keys that have chips.