The Car Key Button Repair Mistake That Every Newbie Makes
The Car Key Button Repair Mistake That Every Newbie Makes
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure many abuses particularly when they are used regularly. This can lead to them becoming faulty over time.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to make your keys work again. However, these techniques carry risks when it comes to changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not confident with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It's possible to change the battery if your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can usually buy replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers include an extra battery in the car when you purchase it.
It is first necessary to determine the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the manufacturer's website or by looking at the key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in a key fob is a button cell, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. These kinds of batteries are commonly available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer and can be bought at less than $5 for a set of two.
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob uses, you can open it up and take out the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they join. Once the fob is opened, the battery will be able to pop out and you can insert the new one in the same direction as the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are readily available at many retailers 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 ensure that all buttons function properly. You can determine if all functions are working correctly 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 might be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. It's a relatively easy process and requires the use of a smartphone or another device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob doesn't work and you believe it's time to replace it It may not require an entirely new battery, but rather the old one needs to be changed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to do this.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle in "programming mode". This usually involves pressing the power button several times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a specific time frame. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, and it stores it in memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it can function like a normal key.
It's important to note that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. It is important to know the model and make before you purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor found a battery for her key fob, but it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant that, while she was able to start the car and open the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to such as those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as provided you know the exact model and make of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but you still can't start your car it could be time to replace the button on your key. The key repair service key on your car receives a lot of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you try to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognize you. It may lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are very easy to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing a problem with your car key it could be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the experience and tools required to recognize and fix a range of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated tasks like fixing broken buttons or cutting a replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car key switch to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary causes. The switch is made from hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. This means that you'll need to push harder on the switch in order to make it work. This could cause more damage to the switch, thereby reducing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries which you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work once more.
If the problem continues, it may be that your key fob's contacts have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear away over time. When you use the key, they are continuously exposed to dust and moisture. Over time, they become worn to the point where they're no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, but it could be costly and take a lot of time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who will fix your key fob at a lower price.