Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are exposed to a lot particularly if they are used frequently. Over time, they can become damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys working again. These methods are not without risk however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob can be risky. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended to seek advice from a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you're noticing that your key fob is not working as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can usually find replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or in the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
The first thing you'll need to find out which battery your key fob uses. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. The most commonly used kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell that is similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These types of batteries are available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer and are available for purchase at less than $5 for a pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using then you can open it and remove the old battery. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or seam where they join together, which you can open with your fingers, or with the flat side of a screwdriver. After the key fob is been opened, the battery will be released. You can then replace it in the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
Once the new battery is in place After that, you can connect the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help determine if everything is working exactly as it should. If your vehicle still doesn't respond to the keyfob, you may need to reprogram the fob and establish wireless connectivity. Luckily, this is a relatively easy process and requires the use of your smartphone or another device to accomplish this.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob does not function and you believe it's time to replace it, it may not need the replacement of a battery, but rather the old one needs to be reprogrammed. This process is different for each vehicle. To find out the procedure go through the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
Modern automobiles require a particular procedure to put the vehicle in 'programming mode,' which typically involves engaging the power button on the driver's side door or ignition multiple times while pressing a button on the fob within a certain time frame. This is how the fob sends its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in its memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key.
Reprogramming a keyfob 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 key fobs for cars in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. However, you must be aware of the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right kind isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor once found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she had however it was for a different model of car. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Dealers can be of great assistance in this regard, since they have the tools to reprogram the fob on the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme a replacement key fob in the event that you could identify the exact model and year of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob but cannot start your car, it may be time to replace the button on your key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot of use and jolting and may become stuck or damaged over time. Every time you press the button on your key fob the unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle is able to recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognize you. It may lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to open up and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It may be time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools required to recognize and fix a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
One of the most common reasons for a car key switch to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic material and has a variety of switches that are located on the surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key to activate. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will need to exert more pressure on the switch to make it work. g28carkeys.co.uk could further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery your key fob should be working again.
If the issue persists, it could be because your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrically conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to the elements as you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. They will eventually wear to the point where they are unable to contact with the circuit board, or sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, however it's costly and take a long time. You can also call an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob at less.