10 Steps To Begin Your Own Car Key Button Repair Business

Car Key Button Repair

Car key buttons take a lot of abuse particularly when they are used regularly. This can result in them becoming damaged over time.

Fortunately, there are several quick solutions to make your keys work again. However, these solutions come with risks when it comes to changing batteries or altering your key fob. If you're not comfortable performing these things yourself, it's recommended that you contact a professional auto locksmith.

Change the Battery

It could be time to replace the battery in the case that your key fob doesn't function as it should. You can purchase replacement batteries in any drugstore chain nationwide or at the parts department at your local dealership for cars. Some manufacturers offer a spare battery with your vehicle when you purchase it.

You will first need to find out the kind of battery is used in your key fob. The manufacturer may have this information on their website, or you can check the key fob itself. The most popular kind of battery that is found in a keyfob is the button cell similar to those found in remotes and watches. These kinds of batteries are commonly found at stores such as Walgreens and Energizer and are available for less than $5 for a pack of two.

If you are aware of the type of battery your key fob is using then you can remove 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 seam or notch at which they connect. When the fob is opened, the battery should be able to pop out and you can then insert the new one in the same direction as the old one. The majority of key fobs utilize CR2032 3V batteries, which are available at numerous stores that sell AAA and AA batteries.

After the new battery has been installed after which you can connect the two halves of the key fob back together and test it to ensure that all buttons are functioning properly. You can test if everything is functioning properly by pressing the lock and unlock button on the key fob, while pointing it toward your vehicle. If your car is not responding to the key fob, it could be required to reprogram the key fob and establish a wireless connection between the two. Luckily, this is an easy procedure and requires only the use of your smartphone or another device to perform the procedure.

Reprogram the Key Fob

If your key fob doesn't function and you believe it's time to replace it It may not require a new battery, but rather the old one needs to be reprogrammed. This process is different for each car. To learn how to do it go through the owner's manual. It's typically available in PDF format on the automaker's website. You can also search YouTube for videos.

In modern vehicles, a special procedure is required to put the vehicle in 'programming mode'. This usually involves pressing the power button several times on the driver's door or ignition while simultaneously pressing the button on a fob within the time frame specified. The fob transmits its digital identification code to the vehicle, which stores it. After the fob is programmed, it can behave as normal keys.

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

Sometimes, you can find replacement batteries for car key fobs in hardware stores, big retailers, or even on the internet. However, you need to be aware of the model and make of your car before buying a fob battery as the correct type of battery can be difficult to locate.

A CR editor found an battery for her key fob however, it came from another vehicle. This meant she was able to start her Emergency Car Key Repair and open the door, but she was unable to lower the windows.

Dealers can be extremely helpful in this situation, since they have the equipment to reprogram the fob on a specific vehicle. Certain European vehicles, such as those manufactured by Audi and BMW generally require you to go to an authorized dealer for this service because they use special security features that can only be reset by the manufacturer. Other dealers we spoke to such as those from Toyota and Lexus were willing to try reprogramming an original fob so provided you know the exact make and model of the vehicle you are driving.

Replace the Button

If you've tried changing the battery, reprogramming your key fob, but still can't start your car it could be time to replace that button on the key. Your car key button receives many uses and jostling over the years and may get stuck or damaged. When you press the button on your key fob an individual code is transmitted in a sequence that the vehicle's receiver can recognize. If you attempt to operate your vehicle from a distance, it may not recognize you. It might close the doors or turn off the engine.

You can purchase replacement buttons online or at several local hardware stores. They are easy to open and install and require just a bit of clear plastic tape to cover the old button.

Contact an Auto Locksmith

It's time to consult the experts if you are experiencing problems with your car's key switch. Auto locksmiths are experts in the repair of electronic keys and locks. These specialists have the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose and repair a variety of issues that may arise with your key fob including replacing batteries and changing the programming. They also have the skills and experience to handle more complicated tasks such as fixing broken key repair near me buttons or cutting a replacement key.

The switch inside the button for the car key is often worn out. Overuse and exposure to elements are the main causes. The switch is typically constructed from a hard plastic and it has several different switches on its surface. Each of these switches is responsible for activating the particular function you are using the key to activate. As the switch wears out over time, it becomes harder to activate each of these functions. In the end, you will need to press harder on the switch to get it to work. This could cause more damage to the switch, thereby diminishing its life span.

The most straightforward solution to this issue is to replace the battery in your car key fob. You can find lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement stores. After you've replaced the battery, your key fob should work again.

If the problem persists it may be that the contacts on your key repair shop near me fob have been worn out. The contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electric conducting film that can wear down over time. They are exposed to elements as you use the keypad which means they are constantly exposed to dirt and moisture. In time, they'll get worn down to the point that they are no longer in contact with the circuit board or sensor underneath the keypad.

You can try to have the key fob replaced by visiting a vehicle dealership, but this could be expensive and may take quite a while. Another option is to contact an auto locksmith in your area who can repair your key fob and save you money.