Ten Car Key Button Repair Products That Can Make Your Life Better
Ten Car Key Button Repair Products That Can Make Your Life Better
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. Over time, they can be damaged.
There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys back in working order. These solutions are not without risk, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with the key fob could be risky. If you're not comfortable performing these yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.
Change the Battery
It may be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it no longer works as it should. You can find replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers will even include an extra key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.
The first thing you'll have to do is find out which battery your key fob uses. The manufacturer may have this information on their website or on the key fob's specifications. The most commonly used battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell type, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. These kinds of batteries are found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer, and are available at less than $5 for a pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses you can remove it and take out the old battery. Most key fobs are constructed with a seam or notch that connects them and can be opened by using your fingers or using the flat side of a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery will pop right out and you can then insert the new one in the same orientation as the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can put the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery and test the key fob to confirm that all buttons function properly. You can verify that everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your car doesn't respond to the key fob, you may have to reset the fob to establish an internet connection. This is a fairly straightforward process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob doesn't work and you believe it needs to be replaced, it may not need a new battery, but rather the old one has to be reset. This process varies by car, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos that explain how to do this.
Modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing the fob's button within a specified time. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then will save it. After the fob is programmed, it will behave as an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they need to be carefully and quickly reprogrammed following the initial one.
You can often find replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. However, you must be aware of the model and make of your vehicle prior to purchasing a battery for your fob because the right type can be tricky to find.
A CR editor discovered the battery for her key fob but it was from another vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and open the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist in this case, as most of them have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to the specific vehicle. Certain European cars, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to a dealer for this service due to the fact that they have specific security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with, including those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the fob in a replacement as they knew the exact make and model of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery and key fob repair 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 use and jostling, and it can become stuck or damaged over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob, the unique code is transmitted in a sequence which the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It might close the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. It is easy to install buttons and they are extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These experts have the tools and know-how to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated jobs such as fixing damaged buttons or cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary causes. The switch is made from an extremely hard plastic with several switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function you are using the key to activate. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch in order to activate it. This can further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery your key fob should work again.
If the issue persists, it could be that the contacts inside your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and covered by an electrically conducting film that can wear out. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to dust and moisture. Eventually, they will wear down to the point where they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by going to a car dealership, however this can be expensive and can take an extended time. Another option is to call an auto locksmith in your area who can repair your key fob and save you money.