Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subject to a lot of pressure particularly if they are used frequently. In time, they could be damaged.
There are many quick fixes to make your keys work again. These methods do not come completely safe, however. Altering batteries or altering your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it doesn't function as it should. You can buy replacement batteries at any chain drugstore nationwide or at the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers include an extra battery with the car when you purchase it.
The first thing you'll need to do is find out which battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob itself. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell type that is 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 remove the old battery from 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 join. After the fob has been opened, the battery will pop right out and you can insert the new one in the same orientation as the previous one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at numerous retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
You can snap the two halves back together after inserting the new battery and test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle isn't responding to the fob, you might need to reprogram the fob to establish a wireless connection. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy process and requires only the use of a phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob does not work and you believe it needs to be replaced It may not require a new battery, but instead the original one must be changed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos explaining how to go about this.
Most 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 the fob's button within a certain time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which will save it. Once the fob is programmed, read more it can behave as normal keys.
It is important to know that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other website key fobs that had been programmed previously. If you want to keep the other fobs following the first, they must be reprogrammed quickly and carefully.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware here stores, big-box retailers or even online. However, you must know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right kind can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor found an battery for her key fob however, it came from a different vehicle. This meant that although she was able to start the car and open the doors, she was not able to lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to a dealer for this service because they use specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with like those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming a replacement fob as long as you knew the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery and programming the key fob but can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. The key on your car receives lots of use and jostling over the years and may become stuck or broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is sent in a sequence that the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognise you. It might lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. It is simple to install buttons and they are very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to speak with a professional when you're having issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the expertise and tools required to recognize and fix a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated tasks such as fixing broken buttons or cutting a replacement key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is typically worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is check here typically constructed from a hard plastic material and has many different switches that are located on the surface. Each switch activates the function for which you use the key. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. You will need to apply more pressure to the switch to get it to work. This can further damage the switch and shorten the life span of the switch.
The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery inside your car's key fob. It is easy to locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now work once you have replaced the battery.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts on your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear away over time. When you use the key, they are constantly exposed to moisture and dust. They will eventually wear to the point that they're unable to contact the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key here fob, but it can be expensive and take a long time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who will repair your key fob at a lower price.