17 Reasons Why You Should Not Ignore Car Key Button Repair
Car Key Button Repair
A broken car key button can be frustrating. key fob repair may need to call an emergency locksmith service that is available 24 hours a day for help or purchase a new remote.
However, you may be in a position to save money by fixing an old key fob instead of replacing it. This is especially true if an old switch or damaged contacts are at the root of the problem.
Battery
If the buttons on the key fob aren't responding to pressing it, that could be a indication that your battery is dead or nearing the end of its lifespan. It's easy to replace the battery on your own instead of paying a locksmith or dealership.
First, locate the battery compartment. This is usually found on the back of the key fob. It may be hidden behind an open cover that slides out or an access point that opens when you push a button. Once the compartment has been opened, look for the small button-cell battery. It is usually shaped like an ordinary coin and is marked with an plus and the minus symbol. Take the battery out and replace it with a new one in its place, making sure that the plus and minus symbols are aligned correctly.
Once the battery is installed, close the compartment and snap the two parts of the key fob together. Be sure to align the pieces and secure them correctly prior to closing the door and testing your keys. To test that the buttons work properly, press any of them.
If the remote keyfob isn't working after replacing the battery, there could be other issues that require a different type of repair. Damage to the physical structure caused by dropping the device in a puddle for instance could cause it to cease functioning altogether. It could also be due to a problem with the internal electrical system or need to be deprogrammed. Take a look at these other auto troubleshooting techniques to determine whether your key fob is suffering from a different issue.
Switches
Depending on the year and the make, there are different kinds of switches that are found in the keyfob of your car. The older type keys usually have a separate chip that is visible inside the case, while the newer keys are more advanced and work by sending signals to the car. Regardless of the type of key, the buttons on the key can get worn down or damaged during normal use. This causes them to become difficult to press, or even unresponsive. If you press the button too hard it can cause further damage. It may also prevent the key from working in the future.
If you're unable to get your key to function, try changing the batteries. If this doesn't work, then you might need to clean your key's fob or adjust its switches. These tiny electronic switches are more susceptible than larger parts of the key to break because they are constantly tossed about.
The switches have a rubbery feeling and are coated with an electrical conductor. The film is prone to be worn away over time. Fortunately, they're small and affordable to replace. They're soldered to the circuit board, therefore it is important to remove the old ones without damaging any other part of the circuit. Then, you can solder the new ones in and reassemble your fob.
A good way to keep your car key fob from becoming damaged is to avoid using it for longer than a couple of hours at a time, and also to not leave it in visible locations that it will be visible. Also, make sure you find a secure location to store your keys when you aren't using it.
If you've tried cleaning your key fob and replacing the battery, but the problem persists it's the right time to seek out an appointment with a locksmith. A professional can test the frequency of your key to determine if it's still able to communicate with your vehicle, and open and replace micro switches, swap cases and much more.
Outer Case
If the buttons aren't able to move freely in the case, they could become stuck or break. If replacing the battery or cleaning with an alcohol-based swab and a cotton pad alcohol rubbing doesn't solve the problem, removing the case and inspecting could be required. If the contacts that the buttons touch don't fit well or are worn out, adjusting them could be the only option to correct the issue.
Certain keys have rubber buttons which can be worn out over time. Rubber buttons can become hard to press as they stretch, and nails may gouge them. This can cause the key to fail and in this instance it is time for a new case or new buttons. This repair involves disassembling your remote, looking for the switch on the board, then heating the solder, and then carefully remove them. The circuit board is soldered with new buttons. The case can then be rebuilt with the horse shoe key blade piece attached. The new buttons should be snugly fitted into the case to prevent them falling out.
Inner Case
Over time, your key fob's buttons may be damaged or stuck due to the constant jostling and accidental pressing. If your key fob ceases to function when you are away from home It is possible to fix the issue fast by using metallic tape and a punch hole. This will allow you to unlock doors but not start the car. This simple fix can allow you to safely return to your vehicle to complete your journey.