Are Car Key Button Repair The Best Thing There Ever Was?
Are Car Key Button Repair The Best Thing There Ever Was?
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Car Key Button Repair
Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly if they are used frequently. In time, they could be damaged.
There are a variety of quick fixes to make your keys work again. These solutions are not completely safe, however. Altering batteries or altering your key fob can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended to seek advice from an expert auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob not working as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries at any chain drugstore nationwide or at the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers even include an extra key fob battery in their packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.
First, you'll need to determine the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by examining the key fob. The most commonly used type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell that is like the ones found in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.
You can remove the old battery from your key fob when you know which type of battery it uses. Most key fobs are constructed with a seam or notch that connects them which you can either open with your fingers, or using a flat tool like a screwdriver. After the key fob has been opened the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it with the same orientation. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers who sell AAA or AA batteries.
You can snap the two halves back together after you have inserted the new battery and then test the key fob to make sure that all buttons work correctly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle is not responding to the key fob, it might be necessary to reprogram your key fob to establish an electronic connection between the two. Luckily, this is quite simple and requires the use of your phone or other device to perform the procedure.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If your key fob doesn't work and you believe it's time to replace it, it may not need a new battery, but instead the original one must be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for each vehicle. To learn how to do it, consult your owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.
In the majority of modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button multiple times on the door car key repair cost of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on the fob within the time frame specified. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, which then saves it. Once the fob is programmed, it will function like a normal key.
Reprogramming a keyfob erases any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they should be carefully and quickly reprogrammed after the first one.
Sometimes you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. However, you need to be aware of the model and make of your car before buying a fob battery as the right type can be difficult to locate.
A CR editor once came across an appropriate battery for the key fob she used, but it was for a different model of car. This meant she could start her car and unlock the door, but couldn't lower the windows.
Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the equipment necessary to reprogram the fob for specific vehicles. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they have specialized security features that can only be reset in the factory. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming a replacement fob as provided you know the exact make and model of your car.
Replace the Button
If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, but still can't start your car it might be time to replace the button on your key. The button on your car key is subjected to a lot of use and jolting and may get damaged or stuck over time. Each press of the button on your car key fob releases a distinct code that is recognized by the car's receiver. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from far away, it may not recognise you. It may shut the doors or turn off the engine.
You can buy replacement buttons online or at numerous local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to install and open and only require a little clear plastic tape to cover the button.
Contact an Auto Locksmith
If you're experiencing issues with the car key button It could be time to contact the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the experience and tools needed to identify and repair a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the expertise and skills to handle more complicated tasks, such as repairing a broken key or cutting an alternative key.
The switch inside the button for the car key is typically worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the primary reasons. The switch is constructed of an extremely hard plastic with several switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the particular function that you use the key to activate. As the switch age it becomes harder to turn on these functions. As a result, you'll need to push harder on the switch to get it to work. This could cause further damage to the switch, decreasing its life span.
The most effective solution to this problem is to replace the battery in your car key fob. It is easy to find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob will be working after replacing the battery.
If the problem persists it could be because the contacts on your key fob's device have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear away over time. They are exposed to elements when you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. They'll eventually wear down to the point where they're unable to contact with the circuit board or the sensor under the keypad.
The dealership can replace your key fob, but it could be costly and take a long time. The other alternative is to contact a local locksmith for your car who will be able to repair your key fob and help you save money.