Car Key Button Repair

The buttons on car keys are exposed to a lot and are especially vulnerable if often used. In time, they could be damaged.

There are a variety of quick fixes to get your keys back to working. These methods are not completely safe, however. Making changes to batteries or tampering with your key fob can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable with these methods, it's recommended that you consult with a professional auto-locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you're noticing that your key fob is not functioning as it should, it might be time to replace the battery. You can usually buy replacement batteries from any chain drug store or in the parts department of your automobile dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery with your car when you buy it.

You will first need to find out what kind of battery is being used in your key fob. The manufacturer should have this information on their website or you can look it up on the key fob itself. The most common type of battery in keyfobs is the button cell that is like the ones found in remotes and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.

If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using you can remove it 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 notch or seam where they join. Once the key fob has been opened, the battery will be released. It is then possible to replace it in the same orientation. A lot of key fobs are powered by CR2032 batteries. These batteries are sold at retailers that sell AAA or AA batteries.

Once the new battery is installed, you can snap the two halves of the key fob together and test it to ensure that all buttons work properly. Pressing the locks and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it at your vehicle will help you determine if everything is working as it should be. If your vehicle still doesn't respond to the keyfob, you may have to reset the fob to establish an internet connection. This is a relatively simple process that only requires your phone or another device.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If you're experiencing issues with your key fob and believe it's time to replace it however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the old battery might need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car, so your best bet is to consult the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the website of the automaker) or look on YouTube for videos that explain how to accomplish this.

In the majority of modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle into 'programming mode'. This typically involves pressing the power button several times on the door of the driver or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a time-specific period. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in its memory. The fob will work like normal keys once it is programmed.

Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you'd like to keep other fobs, they need to be reprogrammed with care and speed after the first one.

You can often find 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 vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind can be tricky to find.

A CR editor found a battery that fit the key fob she used however, it was for a different model of car. This meant that she could start her car and unlock the door, but she couldn't lower the windows.

Fortunately, the dealer can assist in this case and most dealers have the tools needed to reprogram a fob into specific cars. Dealers are required to carry out this service on certain European vehicles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features which can only be reset at the factory. Other dealers we spoke to like those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to try reprogramming a replacement fob as long as you knew the exact make and model of your car.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, and you're still unable to start your car, it might be time to replace that button on your key. The car key button gets a lot of use and jolting over time and can become stuck or broken. When you press the button on your key fob the unique code is sent out in a pattern that the receiver in the vehicle is able to 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 purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. It is easy to install them and they are also extremely simple to open.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It's time to seek out the experts when you're having issues with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair key of electronic keys and locks. They have the experience and tools necessary to diagnose and repair a variety of issues with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing their programming. They have the expertise and expertise to tackle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting a replacement key.

The switch on the button for the car key is often worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is made from a hard plastic and has several switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating a specific function you are using the key for. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes harder to turn on each of these functions. This means that you will need to press harder on the switch in order to get it to work. This could result in more damage to the switch, reducing its life span.

The easiest way to solve this issue is to replace the battery on the key fob of your car. It is easy to find lithium-ion button and coin cell batteries in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Once you've replaced the battery, your key repair fob should be working again.

If the issue persists, it may be that your key fob's contacts have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear down over time. When you use the keypad, they are exposed to moisture and dust. They will eventually wear to the point that they are unable to contact with the circuit board or sensor beneath the keypad.

The dealership can replace the key fob, however it's costly and takes a lot of time. The other option is to contact a local locksmith for your car, who can repair your key fob and help you save money.