Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
Being tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can be damaged and not register presses with accuracy. Replacing the battery, which the majority of car fobs have in a snap-out bag, may fix the issue.
If the contacts inside your key fob have damaged, a new replacement may not be sufficient 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 usual to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Luckily, replacing remote key fob repair is one of the easiest tasks that you can do yourself. It's also a cheap solution that will save you a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.
You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or general retailer. Key fobs typically have a slot that can accept the batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is quite simple. Depending on the manufacturer, you may require an instrument such as a screwdriver to open the cover for the battery compartment.
Certain key fobs have clips that secure the battery in place; If so then gently lift them up using your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with an alternative one, and be careful to note its orientation in order to put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of batteries since this can reduce their life.
Close the case of the key fob and test the functionality by pressing the button. If it doesn't work you might need to reopen the fob and verify that the new battery is properly installed.
It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to solve the issue, for instance physical or electrical trauma. In this scenario, you will need to take your key fob to a dealership or auto service center for repairs. Before you do, there are four issues replacing the battery won't solve. It is important to be aware of these issues so that you can seek help from a qualified technician when necessary. You can also read how to fix the faulty transmitter of a key fob to discover the reason it's not working.
Clean the Contacts
Cleaning your key fob is crucial to its function and lifespan. Over time, natural oils from your hands and pockets can build up on the buttons and crevices and even cause keys to stop working altogether. All you require is rubbing alcohol, the cotton swab, and some alcohol rubbing.
First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery out using a coin or screwdriver. Note the kind of battery (negative and positive side) so you can reinstall it correctly.
Then, wet a swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleaning away the dirt from all of the fob's buttons and the surrounding areas. Make sure to pay special attention to the battery's contacts, and that they are clean. After you have finished, let the fob and its components completely dry.
If your device doesn't work after cleaning it, it could 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 was just dead, this may be enough to bring it back to life.
Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynced it is a great idea to ensure regular maintenance. By regularly wiping it clean with a damp cloth and gentle soap, you can make sure that your key fob will continue to perform well for the years to come.
Reset the System
Despite the fact that today's high-tech keys fobs are more powerful and secure than ever, it is possible to have some problems. Luckily, the majority times, these issues aren't serious or complex, and can be solved with simple solutions like replacing the battery. If the issue is more serious or is not resolved with simple methods such as auto repair shops, they will replace and reset your key fob.
The primary purpose of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also make use of it to activate certain features of your vehicle. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature can be very useful when you have to open the roof when stuck in traffic or when your hands are full. Key fobs are also helpful in bringing your car to life when it's parked in a shady location.
The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs are erratic behavior or the complete inability to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can sometimes interfere with the proper function of the keyfob. If your key fob is dirty or has been wet, it needs to be cleaned before you can use it again.
Replacing the battery of your key fob or cleaning the contacts can fix a malfunctioning device, but if the device continues to run erratically it may be necessary to perform a factory reset. This will eliminate system bugs and restore the performance of the device.
If you're unsure of how to do a factory reset on your device, check the device manufacturer's website or your owner's manual. Some devices require special tools to reset them, however you should find instructions for the model you have.
Another option to resolve issues with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. They are able to replace and program key fobs for nearly all makes of cars. They can also repair keys with chips.