Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons endure lots of abuse, especially if used frequently. Over time, they can become faulty.

There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys working again. However, these methods have the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering your key fob. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it's recommended that you contact an expert auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

It may be time to change the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can purchase replacement batteries in any national chain drugstore or in the parts department of your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers include a spare battery with your car when you buy it.

It is first necessary to find out what kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the manufacturer's website or by examining the key fob. The most common type of battery found in keyfobs is the button cell similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These kinds of batteries are commonly sold at places like Walgreens and Energizer and can be bought for under $5 for a set of two.

You can remove the old battery from your key fob once you know what kind of battery it uses. Most key fobs are designed with a notch or a seam between them, which you can open by using your fingers, or using an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. Once the key fob has been opened the battery will pop out. You can then replace it in the same orientation. Many key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.

You can put the two halves back together after inserting the new battery, and then test the key fob to ensure that all buttons are functioning properly. You can determine if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it could be necessary to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. This is a simple process that only requires a phone or other device.

Reprogram your key fob

If you're having issues with your key fob and believe it's time to replace it, 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. To find out the procedure you must consult the owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

In most modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into "programming mode". This usually involves pressing the power button several times car key repair cost on the driver's door or ignition, while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob within a time-specific period. The fob transmits its unique digital identification code to the vehicle, which saves it. The fob will work like normal keys once it has been programmed.

Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they must be carefully and swiftly reprogrammed following the initial one.

There are a few replacement batteries for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or even online. However, you need to know the make and model of your car prior to buying a fob battery as the right type can be difficult to locate.

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

Luckily, dealers can help in this situation and most dealers have the equipment needed to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European cars such as Audi and BMW because they have 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 attempt reprogramming the fob in a replacement as long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on the key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jostling over the years and can become stuck or broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance and not using the correct code could cause it to not recognize you and then lock the doors or shut off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. They are relatively simple to install and open and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the old button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

If you're experiencing issues with the car key button it could be time to consult the experts. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These specialists have the tools and know-how to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the expertise and experience to handle more complicated jobs, such as repairing broken buttons or cutting a new replacement key.

One of the most frequent reasons for a car 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 constructed of a hard plastic and has many switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function for which you are using the key. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. You will need to apply more pressure to the switch in order to make it work. This can result in more damage to the switch, further decreasing its longevity.

Replace the battery in your key fob. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion coin or button batteries, which you can easily find in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. Your key fob should now function after you have replaced the battery.

If the problem persists it could be that the contacts in your key fob have become worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrically conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to elements when you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They will eventually wear to the point where they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or the sensor under the keypad.

You can attempt to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this can be expensive and may take quite a while. You can also call an emergency locksmith who can repair your key fob for an affordable price.