Car Key Button Repair
A broken car key button is frustrating. You may need to contact a 24-hour Locksmith Service or purchase an alternative remote.
But, you may be saving money by repairing a worn-out key fob instead of replacing it. This is especially true if the problem is due to an old switch or a damaged contact.
Battery
If your key fob's buttons do not respond when you pressing them, it could be a sign that the battery has died or is about to reach the end of life. It's easy to replace the battery on your own instead of paying an auto locksmith or dealership.
Locate the battery compartment first. It is usually located on the back of the key fob. It might be hidden behind an open cover that slides out or an access point which opens when you press the button. Once the compartment has been open you can look for the tiny button-cell battery. It is usually shaped like a coin and has the plus and minus signs. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a brand new one. Check that the plus and symbol are aligned correctly.
Once the battery is installed, close the compartment and snap the two parts of the key fob. Make sure to align the two pieces and snap them into place properly prior to closing the door and testing your keys. Press any of the buttons to ensure that they function correctly.
If your remote keyfob still does not work after replacing the battery, it could be other issues that require a different type of repair. Dropping the device into a puddle can cause it to stop functioning. Alternatively, it might be suffering from an internal electrical problem or might need to be deprogrammed by an expert or locksmith. Find out if the problem is with your key fob using these other car troubleshooting techniques.
Switches
There are various types of switches that are used in the car key fob, dependent on the year and model. The older style keys have an embedded chip that can be seen in the case. The modern keys function by transmitting signals to your car. Whatever the model, the keys' buttons can become worn out or damaged when used regularly. They become hard to press or not responsive. If automotive key repair press the button too hard it can cause further damage. It may also prevent the key from working in the future.
If you can't get your key to function, try changing the batteries. If this doesn't work, then you may have to clean your key's fob or adjust its switches. These tiny electronic switches are more prone than larger components of the key to break due to the fact that they are constantly tossed about.
The switches have a rubbery feel and are coated with a film that conducts electricity. The film may wear off over time. However, they're a small part that is affordable to replace. They're soldered to the circuit board, therefore it is important to remove the old ones without damaging other components. Then you can solder the new ones in and rebuild your key fob.
One way to prevent your car key fob from getting ruined is to avoid using it for longer than a couple of hours at a stretch, and also to not leave it in places where it can be seen. If you're not using your key, put it away in a secure place.
If you've already tried cleaning your key fob or replacing the battery, but the issue continues to persist, it may be time to consider a locksmith. A professional locksmith can check the frequency of your key to determine whether your vehicle is able to communicate. They can also open and replace microswitches as well as change cases, and much more.
Outer Case
If the buttons can't move freely up and down in the case, they may become stuck or break. If cleaning the case with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab doesn't work, it may be necessary to take off the case. If the contacts where the buttons touch aren't fitting well or are worn out, adjusting them could be the only solution to correct the issue.
Some keys use buttons made of rubber, which wear out over time. The rubber stretches and nails pierce it, and the buttons become difficult to press. This could cause the key to fail and, in this situation, it's time to get a new case or new buttons. This repair involves removing the remote, finding the buttons on the circuit board, heating up the solder before carefully taking them off. The circuit board then gets soldered with new buttons. The case is then reassembled and the horse shoe key blade piece attached. The new buttons should be snugly fitted into the case in order to prevent them falling out.
Inner Case
Since your key fob is likely be tossed around and sometimes be accidentally pressed and the buttons within can be damaged or stuck over time. Utilizing metallic tape and a hole punch, you can fix this problem in the event your car is away from home when the key fob doesn't work, allowing you to unlock the doors, but not to start the engine. This simple fix will allow you to safely get back to your vehicle and continue your journey.