Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
The buttons on key fobs may get damaged and stop working properly after being jostled in purses and pockets. This problem can be fixed by replacing the small battery that is usually located in the snap-out case that comes with the majority of car fobs.
If the contacts on your key fob have damaged, a new replacement might not be enough to make it work again. This is a simple fix you can perform at home.
Replace the battery
If your key fob seems sluggish or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your vehicle, it could be time to replace the battery. It's good news that replacing a key fob's battery is one of the most simple tasks you can tackle yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealer or a locksmith.
You can buy the coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or general retailer. Key fobs typically have a slot that can accept the batteries, and opening the case for battery replacement is quite simple. Depending on the manufacturer you might need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.
Some key fobs come with clips that secure the battery in place. If so then gently lift them up with your fingers or a non-metallic tool. Remove the old battery and install an alternative one, and be cautious to note the orientation in order to install it correctly. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries since they can cause damage to their lives.
Close the case of the key fob and test the functionality by pressing the button. If the key fob isn't working, you might need to open it again and make sure the battery is inserted correctly.
It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery will not be enough to resolve the issue, like physical or electrical trauma. In this case you'll have to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four issues that the replacement battery can't solve. It is important to be aware of the problems so that you're able to seek out a qualified technician if necessary. You can also read how to fix the defective transmitter of a key fob in order to discover the reason it's not working.
Clean the Contacts
Keeping your key fob clean is crucial to its function and life. Over time, natural oils from your fingers and pocket lint can accumulate on the key fob's crevices and buttons and even cause keys to cease working altogether. It's not difficult to fix all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.
Open the key fob first by gently prying the battery out using a coin or screwdriver. Be sure to note the type of battery it's (negative and positive sides) so that you can re-insert it correctly when you're done.
Then then, apply a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons and the surrounding areas of the fob. Make sure to pay special attention to the contacts of the battery and ensure that they are clean. After you're done, make sure to let the fob as well as its components dry completely.
If your fob still won't work after cleaning it, it might be an ideal idea to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device to learn how to reset the system. This could be able to bring the key fob back to life if the issue was simply due to the battery being dead.
It is important to maintain the key fob on a regular basis after it has been cleaned and synchronized. You can ensure that your key fob in good working order for a long time by wiping it with a damp towel and mild soap.
Reset the System
Even though today's high tech key fobs have more features that are safer and are more convenient than they ever were but they are still susceptible to some problems. Most of the time, these problems aren't major or complicated and can be fixed by simple solutions, like changing the battery. If the issue is more severe or if the issue isn't resolved by simple solutions such as a professional auto repair shop can repair and replace the key fob.
Making your car lock or unlock with the key fob is the principal purpose of the device, however, it can also be used to activate some vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof using 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 vehicle when it is stuck in a parking spot.
The key fob's internal circuitry and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. The signs could include erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes interfere with the proper function of a keyfob. If your key fob is wet or contaminated with dust, it's going to require cleaning prior to being used again.
If the device continues to behave unpredictably after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you might need to perform a factory resetting. This will eliminate bugs in the system and restore the operation of the device.
If you're not sure how to perform a factory reset on your device, consult the official website of the manufacturer or your owner's manual. Certain devices require special tools remote car key repair to reset them, but you should find instructions specific to your model.
Another option for resolving issues with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These professionals can program and replace keyfobs for nearly all car models. They can also repair keys with chips.