Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons endure lots of abuse, especially if used frequently. As time passes, they may become faulty.

Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys working again. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it is recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you are noticing that your key fob is not functioning as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries at any national chain drug store or the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.

The first thing you will need to find out which battery your key fob is powered by. The manufacturer will likely have this information on their website, or you can check the key fob itself. The most common type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell like the ones found in remotes and watches. These types of batteries are commonly found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer, and are available for less than $5 for a set of two.

If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses you can open it up and take out the old battery. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they join. Once the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then insert the new one in the same orientation as the old one. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.

You can put the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons function properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will allow you to determine whether or not everything is working as it should be. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a relatively simple process that only requires a phone or other device.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If you're having issues with your key fob and believe that it's time to get a new one, it might not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos on how to do this.

The majority of modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle in "programming mode," which is usually done by pressing the power button on the driver's side door or ignition several times while pressing the fob's button within a specific time period. This is how the fob transmits its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in its memory. Once the fob is programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key.

It is important to know that changing the programming of a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs that have been previously programmed. If you want to keep the other fobs following the first, then they should be programmed quickly and with care.

You can sometimes find replacement batteries for your car key fob at hardware stores, Car Key Button Repair big-box retailers or even online. It is important to be aware of your car's model and make prior to deciding to purchase a fob because it can be difficult to find the right battery.

A CR editor discovered the battery for her key fob, however, it came from a different vehicle. This meant that she could start her car and open the door, but she couldn't lower the windows.

Dealers can be of great assistance in this situation, since they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on a specific vehicle. Certain European vehicles, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require an authorized dealer for this service because they use special 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 the fob in a replacement as long as you knew the exact model and car key button Repair make of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, but still can't start your car it could be time to replace that button on your key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jostling over the years and may become stuck or broken. When you press the button on your key fob, an individual code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver inside the vehicle is able to recognize. Trying to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the proper code could cause it to not recognize you and lock the doors or turn off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to open and install and require only a small amount of clear plastic tape to cover the button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

If you're having trouble with your car key It could be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a variety of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as fixing a damaged key or cutting a replacement key.

The switch on the car key button is often worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is constructed of a hard plastic and has multiple switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key for. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down harder on the switch to make it work. This could further damage the switch and reduce its lifespan.

Replace the battery in your key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should work once you have replaced the battery.

If the problem persists it could be because the contacts inside your key fob are worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and are covered with an electrically conducting film that can wear out. When you use the key, they are exposed to moisture and dust. They will eventually wear to the point where they're unable to contact the circuit board or the sensor underneath the keypad.

You can try to have the key fob replaced at a car key repair cost dealership, however it can be costly and could take quite a while. You can also call an expert locksmith in your area who can repair your key fob at an affordable price.