Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
When they are tossed around in purses and pockets keys fobs can get damaged and stop registering presses reliably. This issue can be addressed by replacing the battery that is usually located in the snap-out case that comes with the majority of car fobs.
If the contacts on your key fob have damaged, a replacement may not be enough to bring it back to life. This is a straightforward fix you can perform at home.
Replace the battery
If your key fob feels sluggish or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is among those easy tasks you can do yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money when you go to the dealership or a locksmith.
You can buy the coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement store, or general store. The key fobs come with a slot for these batteries and it is simple to replace the battery. Based on the brand you will need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.
Certain 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. Be aware of its orientation when removing the old one. It is essential to avoid touching the battery's flat surfaces as finger marks can shorten their lifespan.
Close the case of the fob's key and test the functionality by pressing the button. If it still doesn't work you might need to open the case again and verify whether the new battery has been inserted correctly.
It is also possible that a simple battery replacement isn't enough to fix the issue, for instance electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case, you will need to take your key fob to a dealership or auto service center for repairs. But, before doing this, you should be aware of four common issues that a battery replacement won't fix. It is important to be aware of the issues so that you are able to seek out an expert technician in the event of need. You should also read about how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to understand the reasons why it might not be working correctly.
Clean the Contacts
It is essential to keep your keys clean to ensure their function and durability. Over time, natural oils from your fingertips and pocket lint can build up on the buttons and crevices and even cause keys to cease functioning completely. All you need is rubbing alcohol, a cotton swab and some alcohol to rub it on.
The key fob must be opened first by gently prying the battery out using either a screwdriver or coin. Note the kind of battery (negative and positive sides) to ensure you put it back in the correct way.
After that you can apply a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons as well as the surrounding areas of the fob. Pay special attention to the battery contacts, making sure that they are free of dirt or grease. When you are done your task, allow the fob and its components completely dry.
If your fob doesn't work even after cleaning, you might need to reset the system. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to do this and follow them accordingly. If the key fob was dead, this may be enough to bring it back to life.
After the key fob has been cleaned and resynced, it is a great idea to maintain regular maintenance. By wiping it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, you can be sure that your key fob will continue to perform well for long time to come.
Reset the System
Although today's modern key fobs come with more features, are safer, and more convenient than ever before, they can still encounter some issues. Fortunately, key repair car of the time problems aren't severe or complicated and are often solved with simple solutions like replacing the battery. If the issue is severe or isn't resolved with simple methods such as auto repair 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 activate some features of your vehicle. The key fob can be used to lower or lift the sunroof. This feature is very useful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. Similarly, the key fob can be used to summon your car when it is stuck in a parking spot.
The internal circuitry of the key fob could fail due to defects in manufacturing or wear and wear and tear. Symptoms include erratic behavior, or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can sometimes affect the function of the keyfob. If your key fob is wet or contaminated with dust, it will need to be cleaned before being used again.
Replacing the battery on the key fob or cleaning the contacts might fix a malfunctioning device, but if the device continues to run erratically, you may need to do a factory reset. This will eliminate system bugs and restore the performance of the device.
If you're unsure the best way to perform a reset make sure you consult the owner's manual or manufacturer's site. Certain devices require a specific tool to perform the reset, however, you should be able locate instructions that are applicable to the model you're using.
Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to solve issues with your keyfob. These professionals can replace and program keyfobs to fit almost all car models. Additionally, they can also repair keys for cars that have chips inside them.