Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

When they are tossed around in pockets and purses, key fob buttons can get damaged and stop registering presses reliably. Replacing the small battery, which a majority of car fobs have in a snap-out case, may fix the issue.

However, a new replacement could not be able to revive your key fob if the internal switch contacts are worn out. There's an easy fix you can do at home:

Replace the Battery

It may be time to replace the battery in your key fob if it is slow or takes longer to unlock or lock your car than it does on a regular. Replacing a key fob's battery is among those easy tasks you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that could help you avoid a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.

You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general retailer. The key fobs come with slots for these batteries, and it is easy to replace the battery. Depending on the brand, you may have to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Some key fobs have clips which hold the battery in place. If this is the case you can gently lift them up using your fingers or a non-metallic tool. Install the new battery, making sure to put it in the right place. Note its orientation when you remove the old one. It is important to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces as finger marks can shorten their lifespan.

Close the case of the key fob and test its functionality by pressing the button. If the key fob does not work, you'll need to open it again and verify that the battery is inserted correctly.

It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to fix the issue, for instance physical or electrical injury. In that situation, you'll need bring your key fob to a dealer or automotive service center for repair. Before you do that, there are four issues the replacement battery can't fix. It is crucial to be aware of the issues so that you are capable of contacting an expert technician in the event of need. You should also read about how to repair a key fob's defective transmitter to find out more about why it may not be working correctly.

Clean the Contacts

It is important to keep your key fobs clean to maintain their function and durability. Over time, the natural oils of your fingers and pocket lint can accumulate on the crevices and buttons and even cause keys to cease functioning completely. It's not difficult to fix - all you need is cleaning alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, you need to open the key fob by taking the lid off using the help of a coin or screwdriver and gently prying out the battery. Make sure you note the kind of battery it's (negative and positive sides) so that you can re-insert it correctly when you are finished.

Then, wet a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and start cleansing the dirt off 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 its components completely dry.

If your fob doesn't work even after cleaning, you might be required to reset your system. Go through the owner's manual of your device to learn how to reset the system. If the key fob was dead, this might be enough to bring it back to life.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynthesized it is a good idea to keep up with regular maintenance. You can keep your key fob functioning for many years by wiping it clean with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Even though today's high tech key fobs come with more features that are safer, more secure, and more convenient than ever but they are still susceptible to some issues. Most of the time, these problems aren't major or complicated and can be resolved with simple methods, such as changing the battery. If the problem is serious or cannot be resolved by simple methods, an auto repair shop will replace and change the key fob.

The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, however you can also make use remote car key repairs of it to activate certain vehicle features. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature is very helpful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can be used to call your car when it is parked in a tight location.

The internal circuitry inside a key fob can malfunction due to defects in manufacturing or wear and tear. Symptoms may include erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, as well as other electromagnetic interference sources can affect the operation of the key fob. If your key fob is dirty or has become wet, it should be cleaned before you use it again.

Replacing the key fob battery or cleaning the contacts might help fix a malfunctioning device but if the device continues to malfunction you might need to perform a factory reset. This can fix system-related issues and improve device performance.

If you're unsure how to do the factory reset on your device, check the official website of the manufacturer or the manual of your owner. Certain devices require a specific tool to complete the reset but you should be able to find the instructions for the model you're using.

Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to solve issues with your key fob. These professionals can program and replace keyfobs for nearly all car models. They can also repair car keys that have chips inside the keys.