Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
Being tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can get damaged and stop registering presses with accuracy. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery that is typically found in the snap-out case that comes with most car fobs.
If car key repair service on your key fob have worn, a new replacement may not be sufficient to revive it. There's an easy fix you can attempt at home:
Replace the battery
If your key fob seems sluggish or takes longer than usual to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Luckily, replacing a key fob battery is among the simplest tasks that you can do yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealership or locksmith.
You can purchase coins-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts, home improvement, or general store. The key fobs usually have a slot to accept the batteries and opening the case for battery replacement is fairly straightforward. Depending on the manufacturer, you might need to use a screwdriver or other tool to open the cover of the battery compartment.
If your key fob has clips that keep the batteries in place, gently remove them using your fingers or non-metallic tools. Install the new battery, taking care to install it correctly. Be aware of its position when you take out the old one. It is important to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces, since finger marks can reduce their lifespan.
Close the case of the key fob and test the function by pressing the button. If it's still not working, you may need to open the fob again and verify that the new battery is properly installed.
It is also possible that a simple battery replacement isn't enough to solve the issue, like electrical damage or physical trauma. In this scenario, you will be required to take your key fob to a dealership or auto service center for repairs. Before you do this, there are four issues that the replacement battery can't solve. You should be aware of these issues, so that you can seek help from a qualified technician when necessary. You can also read how to fix the malfunctioning transmitter of a key fob in order to find out why it is not working.
Clean the Contacts
It is crucial to keep your key fobs clean in order to maintain their function and durability. Over time, natural oils from your hands and pockets can build up on the buttons and crevices and even cause keys to stop working altogether. It's simple enough to fix all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.
First, open up the key fob by removing the lid off using an instrument or coin and gently removing the battery. Be sure to note the kind of battery it's (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you insert it again correctly after you are finished.
Then, moisten a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleansing the dirt off all buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Be sure to pay particular attention to the contacts of the battery and make sure they are clean. Once you are done, be sure to let the fob as well as its components dry completely.
If your fob doesn't work after cleaning it, it could be an ideal idea to reset the system. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to reset the system. If the key fob is dead, this might be enough to bring it back to life.
It is essential to keep the key fob regularly after it has been cleaned and synchronized. You can ensure that your key fob is functioning for many years by wiping it clean using a damp towel and mild soap.
Reset the System
Although today's modern key fobs are equipped with more features that are safer, more secure, and are more convenient than they ever were however, they may still experience some issues. Most of the time, these issues aren't too serious or difficult and can be fixed by simple methods, such as changing the battery. If the issue is more serious or the issue can't be solved with simple methods such as a professional auto repair shop can repair and replace the key fob.
Getting your car to lock or unlock using the key fob is the principal purpose of the device, but it can also be used to enable certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lift or lower a sunroof. This feature can be very useful when you have to open the roof while stuck in traffic or when your hands are full. The key fob can also be helpful in bringing your car to life when it's parked in an awkward location.
The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons could fail due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. Symptoms include erratic behavior, or an inability to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can occasionally interfere with the function of a keyfob. If your key fob has been contaminated with dust or has become wet, it must 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 have to perform the factory reset. This will eliminate system issues and restore operating efficiency of the device.
If you're unsure of how to perform the factory reset on your device, refer to the device manufacturer's website or your owner's manual. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, however you'll need to find the correct instructions for your model.
Another option to resolve problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These experts are able replace and program key fobs on almost all models of automobiles. Additionally, they can also repair keys for cars that have chips inside them.