Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

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

If the contacts on your key fob are damaged, a replacement may not be enough to revive it. This is a simple fix that you can perform at home.

Replace the battery

If your key fob is feeling sluggish or takes longer than normal to unlock or lock your vehicle, it could be time to replace the battery. Luckily, replacing a key fob battery is one of the easiest tasks you can complete yourself. It's also a cost-effective fix that can help you avoid a trip to an expert locksmith or dealer.

You can buy a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general store. The key fobs usually come with a slot for the batteries and opening the case to swap out batteries is fairly straightforward. Depending on the manufacturer, you might need to use a screwdriver or another tool to open the cover for the compartment for batteries.

If your key fob is equipped with clips that keep the batteries in place, remove them using your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Remove the old battery and install a new one, being cautious to note the orientation in order to install it correctly. It is essential to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces, since finger marks can reduce their life.

Close the case of the key fob and test its function by pressing the button. If it doesn't work you might need to reopen the fob and verify whether the new battery has been properly inserted.

You may also find that a simple replacement of the battery is not enough to solve the issue. This could be due to electrical damage or physical trauma. In this scenario, you will have to take your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do this, there are four issues the replacement battery can't fix. It is essential to be aware of these issues so that you're in a position to find an experienced technician should you need. You can also read how to repair broken car key to fix the defective transmitter of a key fob in order to find out why it is not working.

Clean the Contacts

It is essential to keep your keys clean in order to maintain their functionality and longevity. Over time the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can build up in key fob's buttons and in the crevices. This can lead to keys to stop working. All you need is rubbing alcohol, the cotton swab, and some alcohol rubbing.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery away with the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Note the nature of the battery (negative and positive side) to ensure you put it back in the correct way.

Then, wet a small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin taking off the dirt from all the buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Pay particular attention to the battery's contacts, and that they are clean. After you're done, make sure to allow the fob and its components completely dry.

If your fob doesn't function after cleaning it, it could be a good idea to reset the system. Check the owner's manual to find out how to reset the system. This could bring the key fob back to life if the problem was simply the battery being dead.

Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynched it is a great idea to maintain regular maintenance. By regularly wiping it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, you can be sure that your ignition key repair near me fob will continue to work well for years to come.

Reset the System

Despite the fact that today's modern-day key fobs are more efficient, secure, and convenient than ever, it is possible for them to have certain problems. The majority of these problems aren't major or complicated and can be fixed by simple solutions, like changing the battery. If the issue is more serious or isn't resolved with simple techniques, an auto repair shop will replace and change the key fob.

The primary purpose of the device is to lock or unlock your car, however you can also make use of it to activate certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lift or lower the sunroof. This feature is very helpful when you're stuck in traffic and require to open your roof. In the same way, the key fob can be used to call your vehicle when it is located in a tight place.

A key fob's internal circuitry and buttons could fail due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs could include unpredictable behavior or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, or other sources of electromagnetic interference can interfere with the proper operation of the key fob. If your key fob has become wet or contaminated with dust, it's going to require cleaning prior to being used again.

Replacing the battery of your key fob or cleaning the contacts can fix a malfunctioning device, but if the device persists to operate in a erratic manner, you may need to perform a factory reset. This can fix system bugs and restore device performance.

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

Contacting a mobile key repair near me locksmith for cars in Apache Junction is another option to resolve problems with your key fob. These experts are able replace and program key fobs for almost all car models. In addition, they can also repair key car keys with chips in them.