Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on car keys are subjected to a lot and are especially vulnerable if used frequently. In time, they could be damaged.
There are a few easy solutions that will get your keys back to working. These solutions are not without risk, however. Changing batteries or tampering 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
If you're noticing that your key fob is no longer 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 the parts department of your car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
It is first necessary to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer will likely have this information on their website or you can look it up on the actual key fob. The most commonly used battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell type, similar to those used in remote controls and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob when you know which type of battery it is using. The majority of key fobs are made with a notch or a seam where they join together, which you can open with your fingers, or by using the flat side of a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery will come out, and you can insert the new one in the same orientation as the old one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are accessible at a variety of retailers that sell AAA and 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. You can test if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob to establish an electronic connection between the two. Luckily, this is a relatively easy process and only requires the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe that it's time to get a new one, it might not be necessary to replace it. Instead the old battery might require reprogramming. This procedure varies for each vehicle, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos on how to go about this.
In most modern vehicles, a specific procedure is required to put the vehicle in "programming mode". This usually involves pressing the power button multiple times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob in a time-specific period. This is how the fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, and it stores it in the memory. After remote key fob repair is programmed, it can behave as a normal key.
It is important to know that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs which have been previously programmed. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.
You can often find replacement batteries for a key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. However, you need to be aware of the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor once found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she owned however it was for a different car. This meant that while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she wasn't in a position to lower the windows.
Fortunately, remote key fob repair can assist in this case and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob for specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European cars such as Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Certain dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogram a replacement key fob if you knew the exact model and year of your vehicle.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob and you're still unable to start your car, it's time to replace the button on the key. The button on the key of your car is subject to a lot use and jostling, and it can get damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code that is recognized by the car's receiver. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance without the correct code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. They are easy to open and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're having trouble with your car key, it may be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These specialists have the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated tasks like fixing a broken button or even cutting a new replacement key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside has worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is typically made of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on the surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the specific function you are using the key to activate. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. You will have to apply more pressure to the switch to get it to work. This can further damage the switch and shorten the life span of the switch.
Replace the battery in your key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts on your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are made of rubber, and covered by an electrical conducting film that can wear out. When you use the keypad, they are constantly exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear out to the point that they're unable to contact with the circuit board, or the sensor underneath the keypad.
You can try to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and can take a long time. You can also contact an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob for less.