Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
Getting jostled around in purses and pockets keys fobs can get damaged and stop registering presses with accuracy. This problem can be fixed by replacing the battery that is usually located in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.
If the contacts on your key fob are damaged, a replacement might not be enough to make it work again. There's an easy fix that you can do at home:
Replace the Battery
It may be time to replace the battery if your key fob is slow or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than usual. It's good news that replacing a key fob's battery is among the simplest tasks that you can do yourself. It's also a cheap fix that could save you a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.
You can buy the coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or general store. The key fobs have slots for these batteries, and it is simple to replace the battery. Depending on the manufacturer, you might require a screwdriver or another tool to open the cover of the compartment for batteries.
If your key fob has clips that keep the batteries in place, remove them using your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Remove the old battery and install the new one, but be mindful of its orientation so that you can put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries since this can reduce their life.
After the new battery has been installed then close the key fob's case and test it by pressing the button to ensure it works. If it's still not working, you may need to open the fob again and make sure that the new battery is properly installed.
It's also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to fix the issue, like electrical damage or physical trauma. In that scenario, you'll have to bring your key fob to a dealer or automotive service center to be repaired. However, before you do so, there are four common problems that a replacement battery won't fix. It is essential to be aware of these problems so that you're capable of contacting an experienced technician should you need. You should also read about how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to find out more about why it may not be working correctly.
Clean the Contacts
Cleaning your key fob is vital to its functionality and lifespan. Over time, the natural oils of your hands and pockets can accumulate on the key fob's buttons and crevices and even cause keys to cease working completely. All you need is rubbing alcohol, an swab of cotton and rubbing alcool.
First, open up the key fob by popping the lid off using an instrument or coin and gently removing the battery. Note the type of battery (negative and positive side) to ensure you reinstall it correctly.
Then, wet a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin taking off the dirt from all the buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Be sure to pay particular attention to the battery's contacts, and that they are clean. When you are done cleaning the fob, let it and all its components completely dry.
If your device isn't working even after cleaning, you may want to reset the system. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for directions on how to do this, and follow them. If the key fob is dead, this could be enough to bring it back to life.
Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynched it is a good idea to ensure regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob in good working order for a long time by wiping it clean using a damp towel and mild soap.
Reset the System
Even though car key repair today's high tech key fobs are equipped with more features, are safer, and are more convenient than they ever were but they are still susceptible to some issues. Fortunately, most times, these issues aren't serious or complex and are usually fixed with simple methods such as replacing the battery. If the issue is severe or isn't resolved with simple methods such as auto repair shops, they will replace and reset your key fob.
The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also make use of it to enable certain vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature can be very useful if you need to open the roof while stuck in traffic or when your hands are full. The key fob is also useful for summoning your car when it's parked in an awkward location.
The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. It could be a sign of unpredictable behavior or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes interfere with the proper function of the keyfob. If your key fob is damaged by dust or become wet, it must be cleaned before you use it again.
If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you may need to perform a factory resetting. This can fix system-related issues and improve the performance of your device.
If you're unsure how to do a factory reset on your device, check the official website of the manufacturer or your owner's manual. Some devices require special tools to reset them, but you should find instructions for the model you have.
Another option to resolve issues with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. They can program and replace keyfobs for almost all car models. They can also repair keys with chips.