Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Being tossed around in pockets and purses key fob buttons may be damaged and not register presses with accuracy. Replacing the battery, which most car fobs come with in a snap-out bag, may fix the problem.

However, a new replacement is not likely to restore your key fob if the switch's internal contacts are worn out. This is a simple fix that you can do at home.

Replace the battery

If your key fob seems slow or takes longer than usual to unlock or lock your car, it might be time to replace the battery. Luckily, replacing a key fob battery is one of the most simple tasks that you can do yourself. It's also a cheap fix that can save you a trip to a professional locksmith or dealership.

You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts, home improvement, or general retailer. The key car repair fobs come with a slot for these batteries, and it is simple to replace the battery. Depending on the manufacturer, you may require a screwdriver or other tool to open the cover for the battery compartment.

Certain key fobs have clips that hold the battery in place. If so then gently lift them up using your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Install the new battery, making sure to install it correctly. Note its orientation when removing the old one. It is important to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces, as finger marks can shorten their life.

Close the case of the key fob and test its function by pressing the button. If the key fob still doesn't function, you may have to open it again and ensure that the battery is properly inserted.

It is also possible that a simple battery replacement isn't enough to fix the issue, like physical or electrical trauma. In that scenario, you'll have to bring your key fob to a dealer or automotive service center to repair. Before you do that, there are four issues a replacement battery cannot solve. You should be aware of these issues to be able to seek help from a qualified technician when necessary. It is also important to learn how to repair a defective key fob transmitter to find out more about the reasons why it might not be working properly.

Clean the Contacts

It is crucial to keep your keys clean to ensure their functionality and longevity. Over time, natural oils from your hands and pockets can build up on the keys' buttons and crevices, and can even cause keys to stop functioning completely. All you require is rubbing alcohol, a cotton swab and some alcohol rubbing.

Then, open the key fob by taking the lid off using a screwdriver or coin and gently removing the battery. Make sure to note down the type of battery it is (negative and positive sides) so that you can insert it again correctly after you're done.

Then, moisten a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleansing the dirt off all the buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Pay particular attention to the contacts of the battery and ensure that they are clean. After you have finished your task, allow the fob and its components completely dry.

If your fob still won't work after cleaning it, it might be an ideal idea to reset the system. Consult your owner’s manual to learn how to reset the system. This could bring the key fob back to normal if the issue was simply due to an unresponsive battery.

Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynced, it is a great idea to ensure regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob functioning for many years by wiping it with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Although today's ultra-modern key fobs have more features that are safer and are more convenient than they ever were however, they may still experience some problems. The majority of these problems aren't major or complicated and can be resolved with simple methods, such as changing the battery. If the problem is more severe or if the issue can't be solved with simple methods, a professional auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.

Making your car lock or unlock with the key fob is the main purpose of the device however, it can also be used to enable certain features of your vehicle. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof with the key fob. This feature is very useful when you are stuck in traffic and require to open your roof. Similarly, the key fob can be used to summon your car when it's parked in a tight place.

The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons may fail due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs could include erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, as well as other sources of electromagnetic interference can affect the operation of the key fob. If your key fob has been contaminated with dust or has been wet, key fob repair it needs to be cleaned before you use it again.

If the device continues to behave in a strange manner after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you may have to perform a factory resetting. This will fix system issues and improve device performance.

If you're not sure how to do the factory reset on your device, consult the official website of the manufacturer or your owner's manual. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you'll find instructions specific to the model you have.

Contacting a mobile locksmith for cars in Apache Junction is another option to fix problems with your keyfob. These professionals are able to replace and program key fobs for almost all makes of cars. Additionally, they can also repair car keys with chips in them.