Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons endure lots of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. Over time, they can become damaged.

There are many quick solutions to get your keys back to working. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.

Change the Battery

If you're noticing that your key fob is not working as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can purchase replacement batteries at any drugstore chain nationwide or in the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers even include a spare key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your car from them.

You will first need to find out the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the site of the manufacturer or by checking the key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery used in the key fob is a button cell type, similar to those used in watches and remote controls. 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 uses. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they connect. After the key fob has been opened, the battery will be released. Then, you can replace it with the same design. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.

You can snap the two halves back together after inserting the new battery and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons work properly. You can determine if everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram your key fob and re-establish a wireless connection between the two. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure and only requires the use of a phone or other device to accomplish this.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If your key fob does not work and you think it needs to be replaced, it may not need the replacement of a battery, but rather the original one must be changed. This procedure is different for each car. To find out how to go about it you must consult the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

Most modern automobiles require a particular procedure to put the vehicle into 'programming mode,' which usually involves pressing 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 communicates its digital identification code to the car, which saves it in memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will function like a normal key.

It is important to know that changing the programming of a key fob will erase any other key fobs that had been programmed previously. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.

You can often find replacement batteries for a key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. But, it is important to be aware of the model and make of your car prior to purchasing a battery for your fob because the correct type of battery isn't always easy to locate.

A CR editor once came across an appropriate battery for 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 was not in a position to lower the windows.

Fortunately, the dealer can assist you in this instance, as most of them have the tools needed to reprogram a fob for specific cars. Dealers are required to perform this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features that can only be reset at the factory. Other dealers we spoke to such as those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme a replacement fob as provided you know the exact model and make of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob and still can't start your car it could be time to replace that button on the key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of pressure and jostling and can be damaged or stuck over time. When you press the button on your key fob, the unique code is transmitted in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle can recognize. When you try to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code can cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. It is simple to install them and they are extremely simple to open.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to consult the experts If you're experiencing issues with your car's key button. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair car keys of electronic car keys and their associated locks. These specialists are equipped with the tools and know-how to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing their programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex tasks, like fixing a damaged key or cutting an alternative key.

One of the most frequent 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 typically constructed from a hard plastic and has many different switches on the surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key to activate. As the switch ages it becomes harder to activate these functions. You will need to apply more pressure to the switch in order to get it to work. This could cause further damage to the switch and shorten its lifespan.

The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery inside your car key fob. It is easy to find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work again.

If the issue persists, it could be because your key fob's contacts have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film, which can wear away over time. As you use the key they are constantly exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they are unable to contact with the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.

The dealership can replace the key fob, however it can be expensive and take a lot of time. Another option is to contact a local locksmith for your car, who can fix your key fob and help you save money.