The Next Big Thing In The Car Key Button Repair Industry
The Next Big Thing In The Car Key Button Repair Industry
Blog Article
Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. Over time, they can become damaged.
Fortunately, there are several quick fixes to make your keys work again. These solutions are not completely safe however. Changing batteries or tampering the key fob could be risky. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it is recommended to contact a professional auto locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you're noticing that your key fob is not working as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries at any chain drugstore nationwide or at the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery with your car when you buy it.
First, you'll need to find out the kind of battery is being used in your key fob. This information is typically available on the manufacturer's website or by looking at the key fob. The most common type of battery in the keyfob is the button cell similar to the ones used in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per pack of two.
If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses, you can open it up and remove the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the seam or notch at which they connect. When the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then put in the new one in the same orientation that the old one. The majority of key fobs are powered by CR2032 3V batteries, which are easily accessible at a variety of stores that sell AAA and 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 work properly. You can determine if all functions are working correctly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your car does not respond to the keyfob, you may have to reset the fob to establish wireless connectivity. Fortunately, this is quite simple and requires the use of your smartphone or another device to accomplish this.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob won't function and you believe it needs to be replaced the fact is that it might not require the replacement of a battery, but instead the old one needs to be reprogrammed. This process varies by car, so your best bet is to read the owner's manual (usually accessible in PDF format on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos on how to go about 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 a button on the fob within a specified time. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, which saves it. The fob can function as normal keys once it has been programmed.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. If you wish to keep the other fobs following the first, then 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. However, you need to know the make and model of your car before purchasing a battery for your fob because the correct type of battery can be tricky to find.
A CR editor once came across a battery that was compatible with the key fob she had, but it was for a different vehicle. This meant that, while she could start the car and unlock the doors, she was not able to lower the windows.
Dealers can be a great resource in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this service on some European cars such as Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features which can only be reset in the factory. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an alternative key fob in the event that you could identify the exact model and brand of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob and still haven't been able to start your car it could be time to replace the button on your key. The key on your car receives a lot of use and jerking over time and can sometimes get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It might shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also very simple to open.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
It's time to seek out the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These experts are equipped with the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complex tasks, like fixing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch inside the car key button is usually worn out. Excessive use and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically made from a hard plastic and has a variety of switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function for which you use the key. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. As a result, you'll have to press down more force on the switch in order to get it to work. This could further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.
Replace the battery in your key car key repair shop fob. It is easy to locate lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery your key fob should work once more.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electric conducting film, which can wear away over time. As you use the key they are continuously exposed to moisture and dust. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they're unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, but it's costly and take a lot of time. Another option is to call a local locksmith for your car who can fix your key fob and help you save money.