Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on keys for cars are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if frequently used. Over time, they can be damaged.

Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys working again. However, these techniques carry the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not comfortable doing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact an auto locksmith professional.

Change the Battery

It's possible to replace the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can buy replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department of your local car dealership. Some manufacturers will include an extra battery with your car keys repair 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. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in a key fob is a button cell similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. These kinds of batteries are available at stores like Walgreens and Energizer, and are available for purchase at less than $5 for a pack of two.

Once you know what kind of battery your key fob has then you can open it up and remove the old battery. You can open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the seam or notch where they connect. When the fob is opened, the battery will come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction as the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.

After the new battery has been installed, you can connect the two pieces of the key fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons are functioning properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will allow you to determine if everything is functioning exactly as it should. If your car doesn't respond to the fob, you might have to reset the fob to establish a wireless connection. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy process and requires only the use of your phone or other device to do so.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If your key fob does not function and you believe it needs to be replaced, it may not need an entirely new battery, but rather the old one has to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos that explain how to do this.

In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button a few times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob within a specific time frame. The fob sends its digital identification code to the vehicle, and then saves it. Once the fob is programmed, it can behave as an ordinary key.

It is important to remember that reprogramming a key fob will wipe out any other key fobs which have been programmed previously. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they must be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first 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 be aware of the model and make of your car remote key fob repair prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right type can be tricky to find.

A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob however, it came from a different vehicle. This meant that, while she was able to start the car key repair company and open the doors, she was not in a position to lower the windows.

Fortunately, dealers can help in this situation in this case, since they have the necessary equipment to reprogram a fob to a specific car. Some European vehicles, such as the ones manufactured by Audi and BMW, will usually require you to go to an authorized dealer for this service due to the fact that they have special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to, including those at Toyota and Lexus, were willing to try reprogramming the fob in a replacement as provided you know the exact make and model of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, or reprogramming your key fob, and still haven't been able to start your car it might be time to replace the button on the key. The button on the car key is subject to a lot of use and jolting and may be damaged or stuck over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code that is recognised by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognize you. It might 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 require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

If you're having trouble with your car key button It could be time to call in the experts. Auto locksmiths specialise in the repair of electronic car keys and their associated locks. They have the expertise and tools needed to identify and fix a range of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the knowledge and expertise to tackle more complex jobs, like repairing a broken key or cutting the replacement key.

The switch on the button for the car key is often worn out. This is caused by overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is made from hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each switch is able to activate the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages, it becomes more difficult to turn on these functions. This means that you'll need to push down harder on the switch to make it work. This can cause more damage to the switch, further diminishing its lifespan.

The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery on the key fob of your car. A lot of models of cars use lithium-ion button or coin batteries which you can find in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement stores. Your key fob should 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 made of rubber, and covered with an electrical conducting film that can wear out. They are exposed to the elements when you use the key and are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. Over time, they get worn down to the point that they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.

The dealership can replace your key fob, however it can be expensive and take a long time. Another option is to contact a local car locksmith, who can repair your key fob and save you money.