Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons undergo a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.

There are a few quick solutions that will get your keys working again. These methods do not come without risk, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob's security can be risky. If you're not confident with these methods, it is best to consult a professional auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you notice that your key fob is not working as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can typically purchase replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department at your car dealership. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase your vehicle from them.

The first thing you will have to do is find out what kind of battery your key fob is powered by. This information is usually available on the site of the manufacturer or by looking at the key fob. The most popular kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell that is similar to those found in watches and remotes. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 for a pack of two.

You can remove the old battery from your key fob when you know the type of battery it is using. It is possible to open most key fobs using your fingers or a flat tool, such as a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they connect. After the fob has been opened, the battery should come out, and you can then put in the new one in the same direction that the old one. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries can be found at stores that sell AAA or AA batteries.

You can snap 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 test if everything is working properly by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob, while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your car doesn't respond to the key fob, you may need to reprogram the fob and establish an internet connection. This is a fairly simple process that only requires your phone or another device.

Reprogram your key fob

If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it's time to replace it the fact is that it might not require a new battery, but rather the original one must be reprogrammed. This procedure differs for each car. To learn the procedure, consult your owner's manual. It's usually available in PDF format on the automaker website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

The majority of modern vehicles require a special procedure to put the vehicle into "programming mode," which typically involves engaging the power button on the driver's side door or ignition a few times while pressing a button on the fob within a specified time. This is how the fob transmits its digital identification code to the car, which saves it in the memory. Once the fob is programmed, it can function like a normal key.

It is important to remember that reprogramming a key fob will erase any other key fobs that have been programmed previously. If you want to keep the other fobs after the first, they should be reprogrammed swiftly and with care.

You can sometimes find replacement batteries car key repair cost for a car key fob at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. It is important to be aware of your car's make and model before you purchase a key fob since it may be difficult to locate the right battery.

A CR editor found a battery for her key fob however, it was from an entirely different vehicle. This meant she was able to start her car and unlock the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.

Dealers can be of great assistance in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob for the specific vehicle. Dealers are required to carry out this service 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 such as those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to try reprogramming an original fob so long as you knew the exact make and model of the car you own.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery and reprogramming the key fob and still cannot 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 pressure and jostling, and it can become stuck or damaged over time. Each time you press the button on your key fob an individual code is transmitted in a pattern that the receiver inside the vehicle can recognize. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognise you. It could close the doors or turn off the engine.

You can buy replacement buttons online or in several local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are very easy to open.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to speak with a professional when you're having issues with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These experts have the tools and know-how to determine and fix issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and reprogramming them. They also have the knowledge and experience to handle more complicated tasks, such as repairing broken buttons or cutting a new replacement key.

The switch inside the button for the car key is usually worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to the elements. The switch is typically made of a tough plastic material and has many different switches on its surface. Each switch is responsible for activating the specific function that you use the key to activate. As the switch gets older over time, it becomes more difficult to turn on each of these functions. You will have to exert more pressure on the switch to activate it. This could cause further damage to the switch and shorten its lifespan.

The easiest way to solve this problem is to replace the battery in your car's key fob. You can easily find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery the key fob will work once more.

If the issue persists, it could be that the contacts in the key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electric conducting film, which could wear away over time. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to moisture and dust. In time, they'll get worn down until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.

You can try to have the key fob replaced at a car dealership, however this can be expensive and could take a long time. You can also call a local locksmith who will fix your key fob for a lower price.