10 Life Lessons That We Can Learn From Car Key Button Repair
10 Life Lessons That We Can Learn From Car Key Button Repair
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Car Key Button Repair
The buttons on the car keys are exposed to a lot, especially if they are often used. This can result in them becoming faulty over time.
There are a few easy solutions that will get your keys back in working order. However, these solutions come with the potential for dangers when changing batteries or altering the key fob. If you're not confident with these methods, it's best to consult a professional auto-locksmith.
Change the Battery
If you are noticing that your key fob is no longer working as it should, it could be time to replace the battery. You can find replacement batteries in any national chain drugstore or in the parts department at your local car dealership. Some manufacturers offer an extra battery with the car when you purchase it.
The first thing you'll need to do is determine what battery your key fob uses. The manufacturer may have this information on their website, or you can check the actual key fob. The most popular kind of battery that is found in keyfobs is the button cell 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.
Once you are aware of the type of battery your key fob uses you can open it and take out the old battery. You can open most key fobs by using your fingers or a flat tool, like a screwdriver, at the notch or seam where they join. After the key fob has been opened, the battery will come out. Then, you can replace it in the same orientation. Most key fobs use CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.
After the new battery has been in place after which you can connect the two parts of the key fob back together and check that all buttons function correctly. Pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob while pointing it towards your vehicle will allow you to determine whether or not everything is functioning as it should be. If your vehicle is still not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob to establish a wireless connection between the two. Fortunately, this is an easy procedure and requires only the use of your smartphone or another device to do so.
Reprogram the Key Fob
If you're experiencing issues with your key fob, and you think that it's time to get a new one however, it may not be necessary 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 read the owner's manual (usually available in PDF form on the site of the automaker) or search YouTube for videos explaining how to go about 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 driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob in a specific time frame. This is how the fob communicates its digital identity code to the vehicle, which stores it in its memory. Once the fob has been programmed, it will behave as a normal key.
Reprogramming a keyfob will erase any previous keyfobs. If you wish to keep the other fobs after the first, then they should be programmed quickly and carefully.
There are a few replacement batteries for your key fob for your car at hardware stores, big-box retailers, or online. But, it is important to be aware of the make and model of your vehicle prior to purchasing a fob battery because the right kind isn't always easy to locate.
A CR editor once found a battery that was compatible with the key fob she owned however, it was for a different vehicle. 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 tools to reprogram the fob for a specific vehicle. Dealers are required to perform this procedure on some European automobiles like Audi and BMW because they come with specialized security features which can only be reset by the manufacturer. Some dealers, such as those at Toyota and Lexus were willing to reprogramme an alternative key fob in the event that you could identify the exact model and brand of the car you own.
Replace the Button
If you have tried changing the battery or reprogramming the key fob and still cannot start your car, it may be time to replace the button on your key. Your car key button receives a lot of use and jerking over time and may get stuck or damaged. Each time you press the button on your key fob generates a unique code in a sequence that is recognized by the receiver inside the vehicle. If you attempt to operate your car from a distance without the correct code could cause it to not be able to recognize you and lock the doors or shut off the engine.
You can purchase replacement buttons online or in many local hardware stores. They are fairly easy to open and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the button.
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 specialists are equipped with the tools and know-how to diagnose and fix various issues with your key fob. This includes replacing batteries and changing the programming. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle more complex tasks, like fixing a damaged key or cutting an alternative key.
One of the most frequent reasons for a car key button to stop working is that the switch inside has worn out. This is due to overuse and exposure to elements. The switch is constructed of a hard plastic and has many switches on its surface. Each switch activates the function that you select with the key. As the switch ages over time, it becomes more difficult to activate these functions. In the end, you'll need to push down more force on the switch in order to make it work. This could cause more damage to the switch, reducing its life span.
The most effective solution to this issue is to replace the battery inside your car's key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Your key fob will work once you have replaced the battery.
If the issue persists, it could be because the contacts on your key fob have worn out. The contacts are rubbery and covered by an electrical car key sensor repair near me conducting film that wears out. They are exposed to elements when you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to moisture and dirt. Eventually, they will get worn down until they no longer make contact with the circuit board or the sensor beneath the keypad.
You can attempt to get the key fob replaced at a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and may take a long time. The other option is to call an auto locksmith in your area who can repair your key fob and save you money.