Five Things You Didnt Know About Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons undergo many abuses particularly if they are used frequently. Over electronic key repair near me , they can be damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys working again. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Altering batteries or altering the key fob could be risky. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It could be time to change the battery if your key fob no longer works as it should. You can buy replacement batteries in any national chain drugstore or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in your vehicle when you purchase it.
You will first need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically available on the website of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. The most popular type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell that is similar to those found in remotes and watches. These types of batteries are found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer and are available for purchase for under $5 for a pack of two.
You can take the old battery off your key fob once you know the type of battery it is using. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they connect. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will pop out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is in place, you can take the two halves of the key fob back together and test it to make sure that all buttons are functioning properly. You can verify that everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram your key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure and only requires the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram your key fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe it's time to replace it, it might not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to do this.
The majority of modern automobiles require a particular procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which typically involves engaging 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. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in memory. The fob can function as normal keys once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs following the first, they should be programmed quickly and with care.
Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. However, you need to be aware of the make and model of your vehicle prior to buying a fob battery as the right type can be tricky to find.
A CR editor discovered an battery for her key fob, however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not capable of lowering the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this situation, since they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. Certain European automobiles, like those manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require a dealer for this service since they utilize specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with such as those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming an original fob so provided you know the exact model and make of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, and still can't start your car it's time to replace that button on the key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of pressure and jolting and may be damaged or stuck over time. Each press of the button on your car key fob emits a different code that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognize you. It may shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to open and install and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They have the tools and knowledge to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch inside the car key button is usually worn out. This is due to excessive use and exposure to elements. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic material and it has several different switches on the surface. Each switch is able to activate the function for which you use the key. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes harder to activate each of these functions. In the end, you will need to press harder on the switch to make it work. This can result in more damage to the switch, decreasing its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries which you can find at pharmacies, supermarkets, and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts in your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears out. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to moisture and dust. In time, they'll become worn to the point where they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can try to have the key fob replaced by going to an auto dealer, but this can be expensive and could take an extended time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob at less.