Key Fob repair car key: Replacing the Battery

When they are tossed around in pockets and purses key fob buttons may be damaged and not register presses reliably. This problem can be fixed by replacing the small battery that is usually found in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.

But, a new one may not revive your key fob if its internal switch contacts are worn out. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can attempt at home:

Replace the battery

If your key fob is feeling sluggish or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is one of the easy tasks you can complete yourself. It's also a cheap solution that will save you a trip to a professional locksmith or dealership.

Most key fobs require a coin-style battery (CR2032 or similar) which can be found at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts store. The key fobs usually have a slot that can accept these batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is relatively simple. Based on the brand you might need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Some key fobs have clips that secure the battery in place. If this is the case then gently lift them up with your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with the new one, but be cautious to note the orientation to ensure that you install it correctly. It is essential to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces, since scratches from fingers can decrease their life.

Close the case of the fob's key and test the functionality by pressing the button. If it doesn't work it may be necessary to open the fob again and check that the battery is properly inserted.

There is a chance that replacing the battery isn't enough to solve the issue. This could be caused by electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case, you will need to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four issues that a replacement battery cannot fix. You must be aware of these issues, so that you can seek help from a qualified technician if needed. You can also read how to fix the defective transmitter of a key fob in order to determine the reason why it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

Keeping your key fob clean is essential to its function and lifespan. Over time, the natural oils of your fingertips and pocket lint can build up on the crevices and buttons, and can even cause keys to stop working completely. All you require is rubbing alcohol, the cotton swab, and some rubbing alcool.

First, open up the key fob by removing the lid off with the help of a coin or screwdriver and gently removing the battery. Make sure you note the kind of battery it is (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you re-insert it correctly when you are finished.

Then, use 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 battery's contacts and make sure they are clean. After you're done, be sure to allow the fob and its components completely dry.

If your fob still won't work after cleaning it, it could be an idea to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device for instructions on how to reset the system. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the issue was simply a dead battery.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynched, it is a great idea to ensure regular maintenance. By regularly wiping it down with a damp cloth and gentle soap, you can ensure that your key fob will work well for the years to come.

Reset the system

Despite the fact that today's modern-day key fobs are more capable and secure than ever before, it's possible that they have certain problems. Most of the time, these issues aren’t serious or complex and can be solved with simple solutions, like changing the battery. If the issue is severe or isn't resolved with simple methods such as auto repair shops, they will replace and reset your key fob.

The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also make use of it to activate certain vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof by using the key fob. This feature is very useful when you're stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. Similarly, the key fob can be used to summon your vehicle when it is parked in a tight place.

The key fob's internal circuitry and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. It could be a sign of unpredictable behavior or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes affect the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is damaged by dust or been wet, it needs to be cleaned prior to attempting to use it again.

If the device continues to behave unpredictably after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you might require a factory resetting. This can fix system bugs and improve device performance.

If you're unsure of how to perform a factory reset on your device, refer to the website of the manufacturer of your device or the owner's manual. Some devices require special tools to reset them, however you should find instructions specific to your model.

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