Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs may be damaged and stop functioning properly after being tossed around in pockets and purses. This issue can be addressed by replacing the battery that is typically found in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.

If the contacts in the key fob are damaged, a replacement might not be enough to bring it back to life. This is a simple fix you can perform at home.

Replace the battery

It could be time to replace the battery if your key fob is slow or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than normal. Luckily, replacing a key fob battery is among the simplest tasks that you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that can save you a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.

The majority of key fobs require a coin-style battery (CR2032 or similar) which can be found at any general store or home improvement store or auto parts stores. Key fobs come with an opening for these batteries and it is simple to replace the battery. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need to use a screwdriver or other tool to open the cover for the compartment for batteries.

Some key fobs have clips that secure the battery in place; If this is the case then gently lift them up with your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with the new one, but be careful to note its orientation in order to install it correctly. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries since they can cause damage to their lives.

Close the case of the key fob and test its function by pressing the button. If the key fob does not work, you'll have to open it again and ensure that the battery is properly inserted.

It could also be that replacing the battery isn't enough to resolve the issue. This could be due to electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case you'll be required to take your key fob to a dealer or auto service center for repairs. But, before doing this, you should be aware of four issues that a battery replacement won't fix. You should be aware of these issues, so that you can seek help from a qualified technician if you need it. You can also find out how to fix the defective transmitter of a key fob in order to determine the reason why it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

Keeping your key fob clean is crucial to its function and life. Over time, the natural oils of your fingertips and pocket lint can build up on the keys' buttons and crevices, and can even cause keys to cease functioning completely. It's simple enough to fix - all you need is some ruby alcohol and a cotton swab.

Then, open the key fob by popping the lid off with the help of a coin or screwdriver and gently prying out the battery. Note the kind of battery (negative and positive sides) so you can reinstall it correctly.

Then, wet a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleaning away the dirt from all buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Be sure to pay particular attention to the battery's contacts, and that they are clean. When you are done, let the fob and all its components completely dry.

If your fob isn't functioning even after cleaning, you may be required to reset your system. Consult your owner's manual for directions 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 an unresponsive battery.

It is important to maintain the key fob on a regular basis after it has been cleaned and resynchronized. You can ensure that your key fob is working well for many years by wiping it clean with 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 more convenient than ever but they are still susceptible to some issues. Fortunately, most of the time, these issues aren't serious or complex, and can be resolved with simple techniques such as replacing the battery. If the issue is severe or cannot be resolved by simple techniques such as auto repair car key fob shops, they will replace and change the key fob.

Getting your car to lock or unlock with the key fob is the principal purpose of the device however, it can also be used to enable certain features of your vehicle. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof using the key fob. This feature is extremely useful when you're stuck in traffic and require to open your roof. Similarly, the key fob can be used to summon your car when it's parked in a tight location.

The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons may fail due to manufacturing defects or wear and tear. Signs of this include irregular behavior, or 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 contaminated with dust or has been wet, it needs to be cleaned before you can use it again.

Replacing the battery on the key fob or cleaning the contacts can help fix a malfunctioning device however, if it persists to operate in a erratic manner it may be necessary to do a factory reset. This will eliminate system bugs and restore the performance of the device.

If you are unsure of how to perform a reset make sure you consult the owner's guide or the manufacturer's site. Certain models require a specific tool to perform the reset, but you should be able to find the instructions for the model you're using.

Contacting a mobile remote control car key repairs locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to fix issues with your keyfob. They can program and replace keyfobs for almost all car keys repair models. In addition, they can also repair Car Key car keys with chips in them.