Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
The buttons on key fobs can become damaged and stop functioning properly after being jostled in pockets and purses. This issue can be resolved by replacing the battery that is typically found in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.
If the contacts on your key fob are damaged, a new replacement may not be enough to revive it. This is a straightforward fix you can do at home.
Replace the battery
If your key fob feels slow or takes longer than normal to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery of your key fob is one of the most simple tasks you can tackle yourself. It's a simple fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealership or locksmith.
You can buy the coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general retailer. The key fobs have slots for these batteries and it is easy to replace the battery. Depending on the manufacturer, you might require an instrument such as a screwdriver to open the cover of the compartment for batteries.
If key fob repair has clips that hold the batteries in place, gently take them off them with your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with a new one, being cautious to note the orientation in order to put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries as this can reduce their life.
Close the case of the key fob and test its function by pressing the button. If the key fob doesn't function, you may have to reopen it and ensure that the battery is correctly inserted.
You may also find that simply replacing the battery isn't enough to resolve the issue. This could be caused by electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case you'll be required to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. But, before doing this, you should be aware of four common problems that a battery replacement won't solve. You should be aware of these issues, to be able to seek help from a qualified technician when necessary. You can also learn how to fix the faulty transmitter of a key fob to find out why it is not working.
Clean the Contacts
Keeping your key fob clean is crucial to its function and longevity. Over time the natural oils on your fingers and pocket dust can build up in the key fob's buttons and in the crevices. This can lead to the keys not to work. It's simple enough to fix, though all you need is cleaning alcohol and a cotton swab.
Open the key fob first by gently prying the battery out using a coin or screwdriver. Make sure you note the kind of battery it is (negative and positive sides) so that you can re-insert it correctly when you are finished.
After that, apply a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons as well as the surrounding areas of the fob. Pay particular attention to the battery's contacts and ensure that they are clean. After you have finished, let the fob and its components completely dry.
If your fob doesn't work after cleaning it, it might be a good idea to reset the system. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to reset the system. If the key fob is dead, this may be enough to bring it back to life.
It is crucial to maintain the key fob in good condition after it has been cleaned and synchronized. You can ensure that your key fob is working well 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 but they are still susceptible to some issues. The majority of these problems aren't major or complicated and can be fixed by simple methods, such as changing the battery. If the issue is more serious or cannot be resolved by simple methods, an auto repair shop will replace and reset your key fob.
The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also use it to activate certain features of your vehicle. The key fob can be used to lower or raise the sunroof. This feature is very helpful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can also be useful in summoning your car even if it's in a shady location.
The internal circuitry inside the key fob could fail due to defects in manufacturing or wear and wear and tear. The signs are erratic behavior or an inability 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 been damaged by dust or been wet, it needs to be cleaned before you use it again.
If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you might need to perform a factory resetting. This can clear up system bugs and restore the performance of the device.
If you're not sure how to perform the factory reset on your device, consult the official website of the manufacturer or the owner's manual. Certain devices require special tools to reset them, however you should find instructions specific to your specific model.
Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. They can repair and program keyfobs for almost all models of cars. They can also repair keys with chips.