10 Locations Where You Can Find Car Key Button Repair
10 Locations Where You Can Find Car Key Button Repair
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are subjected to a lot particularly if they are frequently used. This can lead to them becoming faulty over time.
There are a few quick fixes that will allow your keys working again. These methods are not without risk however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be risky. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended to seek advice from a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can buy replacement batteries at any national chain drugstore or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase a car from them.
The first thing you will need to do is determine what battery your key fob uses. This information is typically available on the manufacturer's website or by checking the key fob. The most common type of battery in the keyfob is the button cell similar to those found in remotes and watches. These types of batteries are typically found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer and can be bought for less than $5 for a package of two.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob has, you can remove it and take out the old battery. 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 come out. You can then replace it with the same design. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is working as it should be. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it may be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. Luckily, this is quite simple and requires the use of a phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe that it's time to get a new one however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead, the old battery may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car so the best way to find out is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos explaining how to do this.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a specific procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a time-specific period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it in its memory. The fob will work like an ordinary key once it has been programmed.
It is important to remember that the process of reprogramming a key fob can erase any other key fobs that had been previously programmed. If you wish to keep the other fobs following the first, they should be programmed quickly and with care.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers, or on the internet. You must know your car's model and make before you purchase a fob as it may be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor once came across an appropriate battery for the key fob she had, but it was for a different model of car. This meant that while she was able to start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Dealers can be a great resource in this regard, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. Dealers are required to carry out this service on some European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features which can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke with, including those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to attempt reprogramming an original fob so provided you know the exact make and model of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and programming the key fob and still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on the key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot of pressure and jolting and may become stuck or damaged over time. Each press of the button on your key fob emits a different code that is recognised by the car's receiver. If you attempt to operate your car from a distance without using the proper code could cause it not to recognise you and shut the car key fob repair doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. They are easy to open up and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key button It could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. They are equipped with the tools and knowledge to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.
One of the main reasons for a car key button to stop working is that the switch inside it has worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is made of a hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function for which you use the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down harder on the switch to get it to work. This can result in more damage to the switch, further decreasing its life span.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion button or coin batteries which you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery, your key fob should work again.
If the problem continues, it may be that your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film, which could wear down over time. When you use the key, they are constantly exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear out to the point where they are unable to contact the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealer can replace the key fob, however it's costly and take a lot of time. You can also contact an expert locksmith in your area who will repair your key fob at less.