Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons endure a lot of abuse, especially if used frequently. Over time, they can be damaged.

Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to get your keys back to working. However, these solutions come with risks when it comes to changing batteries or tampering with your key fob. If you're not comfortable doing these yourself, it is recommended that you contact an expert auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

If you're noticing that your key fob not functioning as it should, it may be time to replace the battery. You can buy replacement batteries at any national chain drugstore or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers will even include a spare key fob battery inside the packaging when you purchase your car from them.

It is first necessary to find out the kind of battery is used in your key fob. This information is typically found on the manufacturer's website or by examining the key fob. Generally speaking, the most popular battery that is used in key fobs is a button cell type that is similar to the ones used in remote controls and watches. These batteries are available at Walgreens, Energizer and other stores for less than $5 per box of two.

You can take the old battery off your key fob once you know the type of battery it is using. The majority of key fobs are made with a seam or notch where they join together which you can either open with your fingers, or by using an instrument that is flat, such as a screwdriver. Once the fob is opened, the battery should pop right out and you can then insert the new one in the same direction that the old one. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.

You can join the two halves together after you have inserted the new battery and then test the key fob to confirm that all buttons are functioning properly. You can determine if everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob, while pointing it towards your vehicle. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it might be required to reprogram the key fob and re-establish an electronic connection between the two. It's a relatively easy process and requires the use of a smartphone or another device to perform the procedure.

Reprogram your key fob

If you're having trouble with your key fob and think it's time to replace it however, it may not be required to replace it. Instead the battery you have may need to be reprogrammed. This procedure is different for every car and the best option is to refer to the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos on how to do this.

In modern vehicles, a particular procedure is required to put the vehicle in "programming mode". This typically involves pressing the power button several times on the door of the driver or ignition, while simultaneously pressing a button on a fob within a specific time frame. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the car, which saves it in memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will function like an ordinary key.

Reprogramming a fob will erase any previous keyfobs. Therefore, if you wish to keep other fobs, they should be reprogrammed with care and speed following the initial one.

Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs at hardware stores, major retailers, or even online. However, you must be aware of the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the correct type of battery can be tricky to find.

A CR editor stumbled across an battery for her key fob however, it was from a different vehicle. This meant that although she could start the car and open the doors, she wasn't able to lower the windows.

Dealers can be a great resource in this case, as they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on specific vehicles. Dealers are required to carry out this service on some European cars such as Audi and BMW due to their unique security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, like those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme the key fob in a replacement provided you knew the exact model and year of your vehicle.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery and programming the key fob and still not being able to start your car, it might be time to replace the button on the key. The key on your car receives a lot of use and jerking over time and may get stuck or even broken. Every time you press the button on your key fob releases a distinct code that is recognized by the car's receiver. If you try to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognize you. It may close the doors car key repairs or turn off the engine.

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

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It may be time to speak with a professional if you are experiencing problems with the key button on your car. Auto locksmiths specialize in the repair of electronic car keys as well as their associated locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools required to recognize and repair a variety of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They have the knowledge and skills to handle more complex jobs, like fixing a damaged key or cutting the replacement key.

The switch inside the car key button is often worn out. The use of the switch and exposure to elements are the main reasons. The switch is typically constructed of a tough plastic material and has a variety of switches on the surface. Each switch is responsible for activating a specific function that you use the key for. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate each of these functions. This means that you'll have to press down more force on the switch to make it work. This can further damage the switch and decrease its lifespan.

Replace the battery in your key fob. The majority of cars have 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 continues, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are made of rubber and coated with an electrically conducting film, which could wear down over time. They are exposed to the elements as you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. They'll eventually wear down to the point that they can no longer make contact with the circuit board, or the sensor underneath the keypad.

You can attempt to get the key fob replaced by visiting a car dealership, however this can be expensive and could take a long time. You can also call a local locksmith who will repair your key fob at an affordable price.