Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on the car keys are exposed to a lot particularly if they are often used. This can lead to them becoming damaged over time.

There are a few easy fixes that will allow your keys working again. These methods do not come without risk, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with the key fob could be dangerous. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

It may be time to change the battery if your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can typically purchase replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers offer a spare battery with the car when you purchase it.

You will first need to find out the type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website, or you can check the actual key fob. The most common kind of battery that is found in a keyfob is the button cell, which is similar to those found in watches and remotes. These kinds of batteries are typically sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer, and are available for less than $5 for a set of two.

You can take the old battery off your key fob after you know the type of battery it has. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or a seam where they join together and can be opened with your fingers, or with a flat tool like a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery should pop right out and you can insert the new one in the same direction as the old one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are available at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.

After the new battery has been inserted After that, you can take the two halves of the key fob together and test it to make sure that all buttons work properly. You can test if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram your key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. Luckily, this is a relatively easy process and requires only the use of your phone or other device to do so.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If you're experiencing issues with your key fob, and you think it needs a new one however, it may not be necessary to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This process is different for every car. To find out the procedure, consult your owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

In most modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into "programming mode". This usually involves pressing the power button several times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a specific time frame. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the car, which saves it in its memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will behave as an ordinary key.

Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.

You can sometimes find replacement batteries for a car key fob in hardware stores, big-box retailers or even online. However, you must be aware of the model and make of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right type can be tricky to find.

A CR editor stumbled across a battery for her key fob, however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant she was able to start her car and open the door, but couldn't lower the windows.

Luckily, dealers can assist in this case in this case, since they have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Some European automobiles, like the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW typically require you to go to an authorized dealer for this service because they use specialized security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to, including those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try 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, or reprogramming your key fob and still haven't been able to start your car it might be time to replace that button on the key. Your car key button receives lots of use and jolting over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. When you press the button on your key fob, a unique code is sent in a sequence which the receiver inside the vehicle can recognize. Trying to operate your car from a distance without the correct code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and shut the doors or shut off the engine.

You can purchase replacement buttons online or in numerous local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are also very simple to open.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It's time to seek out the experts If you're experiencing issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues with your key fob, repair car key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting a replacement key.

One of the main reasons for a car's key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on the surface. Each switch is able to activate the function for which you use the key. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch in order to make it work. This could result in more damage to the switch, diminishing its longevity.

Replace the battery in your key fob. You can find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now be working after replacing the battery.

If the issue persists it could be because the contacts on the key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electric conducting film, which could wear away over time. They are exposed to elements when you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or the sensor under the keypad.

The dealer can replace the key fob, however it can be expensive and takes a lot of time. The other alternative is to contact a local car locksmith who can fix your key fob and help you save money.