Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs can get damaged and stop functioning properly after being jostled in purses and pockets. Replacing the small battery, which a majority of car fobs are equipped with in a snap-out case, can fix this issue.

If the contacts in your key fob are damaged, a replacement may not be enough to revive it. It's a good thing that this is an easy fix that you can try at home:

Replace the battery

It's possible to change the battery if your key fob isn't working or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than usual. It's good news that replacing the battery of your key fob is one of the easiest tasks that you can do yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money when you go to the dealership or locksmith.

The majority of key fobs need the use of a coin-type battery (CR2032 or similar) which you can purchase at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts stores. The key fobs usually have a slot that can accept these batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is relatively simple. Depending on the manufacturer, you might need to use an instrument such as a screwdriver to remove the cover from the battery compartment.

Some key fobs have clips which hold the battery in place. if so then gently lift them up with your fingers or a non-metallic tool. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with a new one, being careful to note its orientation to ensure that you install it correctly. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries since they can cause damage to their lives.

Once the new battery is installed and the key fob is closed, close its case and test it by pressing the button to ensure it is working. If the key fob still does not work, you'll have to reopen it and verify that the battery is correctly inserted.

It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to fix the issue, like electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case you'll need to take your key fob to a dealer or auto key fob repair service center for repairs. Before you do this, there are four issues that the replacement battery can't fix. You should be aware of these issues to be able to get help from a trained technician if needed. It is also important to learn how to repair broken car key to repair a key fob's defective transmitter to find out more about the reasons it may not be working correctly.

Clean the Contacts

Keeping your key fob clean is crucial to its function and longevity. Over time, natural oils from your fingertips and pocket lint can build up on the crevices and buttons and may cause keys to stop functioning completely. It's not difficult to fix, though - all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.

Open the key fob first by gently prying the battery out using the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Be sure to note the type of battery it is (negative and positive sides) so that you can insert it again correctly after you're done.

After that you can make use of 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 that they are clean. Once you are done, be sure to allow the fob and its components completely dry.

If your fob doesn't work even after cleaning, you may need to reset the system. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for the instructions on how to repair car key fob to do this, and follow them. This could be able to bring the key fob back to life if the problem was due to the battery being dead.

After the key fob has been cleaned and resynched 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

Even though today's high tech key fobs are equipped with more features, are safer, and are more convenient than ever before, they can still encounter some problems. Most of the time these issues aren’t serious or complex and can be solved with simple procedures, such as changing the battery. If the problem is serious or isn't resolved with simple techniques, an auto repair car key remote shop will replace and reprogram your key fob.

The primary function 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 can be very beneficial if you need to open the roof when stuck in traffic or your hands are full. The key fob is also useful in summoning your car when it's parked in a shady place.

The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs could include unpredictable behavior or near a complete failure 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 dirty or has become wet, it should 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 can fix system bugs and improve device performance.

If you're not sure the best way to perform a reset then consult the device's owner's manual or manufacturer's site. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you'll find instructions for your specific model.

Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to contact an Apache Junction mobile car key repair near me car locksmith. These experts are able replace and program key fobs for nearly all makes of cars. They can also fix keys with chips.