Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons undergo lots of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.
There are a few easy solutions that will get your keys back to working. These methods are not completely safe however. Altering batteries or altering your key fob can be risky. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
It may be time to replace 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 at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.
The first thing you will need to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer should have this information on their website, or you can check the key fob's specifications. Generally speaking, repair broken car key used in the key fob is a button cell, similar to those 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 take the old battery off your key fob once you know the type of battery it has. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or a seam that connects them which you can either open by using your fingers, or with a flat tool like a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery will come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction that the old one. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are accessible at a variety of retailers that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is installed After that, you can take the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons work properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help you determine whether or not everything is working as it should be. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it may be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. It's an easy procedure and only requires the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram your key fob
If your key fob doesn't work and you think it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require an entirely new battery, but rather the old one needs to be reset. This procedure varies for each vehicle so the best way to find out is to consult the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos on how to accomplish this.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This typically involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within the time frame specified. This is how the fob communicates its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it in its memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will perform the same way as normal keys.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.
You can sometimes find replacement batteries for your key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. You must know the model and make prior to deciding to purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to locate the right battery.
A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob but it was from a different vehicle. This meant that while she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Fortunately, dealers can help in this situation, as most of them have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into the specific vehicle. Some European automobiles, like the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require you to go to a dealer for this service due to the fact that they have specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram an alternative key fob provided you knew the exact model and make of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, but still haven't been able to start your car it's time to replace the button on the key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of use and jostling, and it can be damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob emits a different code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It might shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to consult 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 expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car key switch to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made of a tough plastic material and it has several different switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the particular function you are using the key to activate. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to get it to work. This could cause more damage to the switch, further decreasing its longevity.
Replace the battery in your key fob. Many models of car use lithium-ion button or coin batteries that you can buy at supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now function after you have replaced the battery.
If the problem continues, it could be because your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film that can wear out over time. When you use the keypad, they are constantly exposed to dust and moisture. They will eventually wear to the point where they are unable to contact the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced by visiting an auto dealer, but it can be costly and can take a long time. Another alternative is to contact an auto locksmith in your area, who will be able to repair your key fob and save you money.