Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot, especially if they are frequently used. As time passes, they may be damaged.
There are many quick fixes to make your keys work again. These solutions are not without risk however. Changing batteries or tampering your key fob's security can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it is best to consult an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob not functioning as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries in any chain drugstore nationwide or in the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery in the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
It is first necessary to find out what type of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or on the key fob itself. The most commonly used type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell similar to the ones used in watches and remotes. These types of batteries are typically sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer and are available at less than $5 for a pack of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob after you know the type of battery it has. Most key fobs are constructed with a notch or seam between them which you can either open with your fingers, or with the flat side of a screwdriver. After the fob has been opened, the battery should come out, and you can insert the new one with the same orientation as the previous one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.
Once the new battery is inserted, you can snap the two halves of the key fob back together and check that all buttons work properly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while it is pointed at your vehicle will help you determine if everything is working as it should be. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a relatively easy process that requires your phone or a different device.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're having issues with your key fob and think it's time to replace it, it might not be necessary to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the automaker's website) or search YouTube for videos that explain how to go about this.
In most modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button multiple times on the driver's door or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a specific time frame. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which then saves it. The fob can function as normal keys once it is programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be reprogrammed swiftly and with care.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for key fobs for cars in hardware stores, big retailers, or even online. But, it is important to know the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right type can be tricky remote key repairs to find.
A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that while she was able to start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.
Fortunately, the dealer can assist in this case, as most of them have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob into a specific car. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW due to their unique security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke with, including those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the fob in a replacement as long as you knew the exact model and make of the vehicle you are driving.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and you're still unable to start your car, it might 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. Each time you press the button on your key fob a unique code is sent in a sequence that the receiver inside the vehicle can recognize. Trying 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 in many local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to open up and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It could be time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and fix a range of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated tasks such as fixing broken buttons or cutting a replacement key.
One of the most common reasons for a car's key button to stop working is because the switch inside it has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is usually made from a hard plastic and has many different 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 wears out over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. As a result, you'll need to push down more force on the switch to make it work. This could cause further damage to the switch, thereby decreasing its longevity.
The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery inside your car key fob. The majority of cars have lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries which you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. After replacing the battery, your key fob should work once more.
If the problem persists, it could be that the contacts in your key fob are worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear out over time. They are exposed to the elements when you use the key, so they're constantly being exposed to moisture and dirt. In time, they'll wear down until they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
The dealership can replace the key fob, but it's costly and take a lot of time. You can also call an expert locksmith in your area who will fix your key fob at an affordable price.