Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
Being tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can deteriorate and fail to register presses accurately. Replacing the small battery, which most car fobs are equipped with in a snap-out case can sometimes fix this issue.
If the contacts inside the key fob are damaged, a replacement might not be enough to revive it. It's a good thing that this is an easy fix that you can do at home:
Replace the Battery
If your key fob seems slow or takes longer than normal to unlock or lock your car, it might be time to replace the battery. Replacing a key fob's battery is one of those simple tasks that you can perform yourself. It's also a cheap fix that can help you avoid a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.
Most key fobs require batteries that look like coins (CR2032 or similar) which you can purchase at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts stores. The key fobs come with slots for these batteries, and it is simple to replace the battery. Depending on the brand you will need to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.
Some key fobs have clips that secure the battery in place. if so, gently lift these up with your fingers or a non-metallic device. Install the new battery, taking care to place it in the correct way. Note its orientation when removing the old one. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the batteries as this could reduce their lifespan.
After the new battery has been 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 doesn't function, you may have to reopen it and ensure that the battery is correctly inserted.
There is a chance that simply replacing the battery isn't enough to fix the problem. This could be due to physical trauma or electrical damage. In this scenario you'll be required to take your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. Before you do, there are four issues the replacement battery can't solve. It is important to be aware of these issues so that you can get help from a trained technician when necessary. You should also learn how to repair a key fob's defective transmitter to understand why it may not be functioning properly.
Clean linked here is important to keep your keys clean to maintain their functionality and longevity. Over time, the natural oils of your fingertips and pocket lint can accumulate on the crevices and buttons, and can even cause the keys to stop working altogether. It's not difficult to fix - all you need is cleaning alcohol and a cotton swab.
Then, open the key fob by popping the lid off with a screwdriver or coin and gently removing the battery. Be sure to note the type of battery it is (negative and positive sides) so that you can re-insert it correctly when you are finished.
After that, use a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons as well as the surrounding areas of the fob. Be particular about the battery contacts, ensuring that they are clean of dirt or grease. After you have finished, let the fob and all its components completely dry.
If your fob still won't function after cleaning it, it might be an ideal idea to reset the system. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to do this, and follow them accordingly. This may be able to bring the key fob back to normal if the issue was simply due to the battery being dead.
Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynthesized it is a good idea to maintain regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob is working well 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 that are safer and more convenient than they ever were but they are still susceptible to 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 if the issue can't be solved with simple methods such as a professional auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.
Getting your car to lock or unlock using the key fob is the primary purpose of the device but it can also be used to activate some vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature is useful if you need to open the roof while stuck in traffic or your hands are full. The key fob can also be useful for summoning your car if it's parked in a shady location.
The internal circuitry of the key fob may fail because of manufacturing defects or wear and wear and tear. It could be a sign of unpredictable behavior or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes, moisture or other sources of electromagnetic interference can affect the operation of the key fob. If your key fob has become damp or contaminated by dust, it's going to need to be cleaned before being used again.
If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you may require a factory resetting. This will help eliminate system bugs and restore the operation of the device.
If you're unsure of how to do a factory reset on your device, consult the device manufacturer's website or your owner's manual. Some devices require special tools to reset them, however you'll find instructions specific to the model you have.
Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to fix issues with your key fob. These experts are able replace and program key fobs for almost all car models. They can also repair keys with chips.
