Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Getting jostled around in purses and pockets, key fob buttons can deteriorate and fail to register presses reliably. Replacing the battery, which a majority of car fobs come with in a snap-out bag, can sometimes fix this issue.

If the contacts inside your key fob have worn, a new replacement might not be enough to revive it. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can try at home:

Replace the Battery

It could be time to replace the battery if your remote key repairs fob is slow or takes longer to unlock or lock your vehicle than normal. Luckily, replacing the battery of your key fob is among the simplest tasks that you can do yourself. This is a simple fix that will save you money and time on a trip to the dealership or a locksmith.

You can purchase the coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general store. Key fobs typically have a slot that can accept the batteries, and opening the case to replace batteries is relatively simple. Depending on the manufacturer you will need to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Some key fobs have clips which hold the battery in place. If this is the case, gently lift these up using your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Install the new battery, making sure to install it correctly. Be aware of its orientation when you remove the old one. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the batteries as this could reduce their lifespan.

Once the new battery is installed then close the key fob's case and test it by pressing the button to confirm it is working. If it still doesn't work, you may need to open the fob again and verify that the battery is properly inserted.

There is a chance that simply replacing the battery is not enough to solve the issue. This could be due to electrical damage or physical trauma. In this case, you'll need to bring your key fob to the dealership or service center to repair. However, before doing so, there are four common issues that a battery replacement won't solve. It is important to be aware of these issues to be able to get help from a trained technician when necessary. It is also important to learn how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to learn more about the reasons it may not be working correctly.

Clean the Contacts

It is essential to keep your key fobs clean in order to maintain their functionality and longevity. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pocket dust can build up in the key fob buttons and crevices. This can lead to the keys not to work. It's simple enough to fix all you need is cleaning alcohol and a cotton swab.

First, open the key fob by gently prying the battery out with a coin or screwdriver. Note the kind of battery (negative and positive side) to ensure you put it back in the correct way.

Then, wet a cotton small or swab with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin 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 make sure they are clean. Once you are done, be sure to let the fob as well as its components dry completely.

If your fob isn't functioning even after cleaning, you may want to reset the system. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for instructions on how to do this, and follow them. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the problem was due to the battery being dead.

It is essential to keep the key fob on a regular basis after it is cleaned and resynchronized. You can ensure that your key fob functioning for many years by wiping it with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the System

Despite the fact that today's high-tech keys fobs are more efficient and secure than ever, it is possible to run into certain problems. Fortunately, most of the time problems aren't severe or complex and repair car remote control key are usually fixed with simple methods such as replacing the battery. If the problem is serious or is not resolved with simple techniques, an auto repair shop 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 car features. One example is the ability to lower or raise the sunroof with the key fob. This feature is very helpful when you're stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can be used to call your vehicle when it is parked in a tight place.

The internal circuitry of a key fob and buttons could fail due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. Symptoms include erratic behavior, or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources may sometimes interfere with the proper function of the keyfob. If your key fob has been dirty or has become wet, it must be cleaned prior to attempting to use it again.

If the device continues to behave in a strange manner after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you might require the factory reset. This will fix system issues and restore device performance.

If you're not sure how to do a factory reset on your device, consult the device manufacturer's website or the owner's manual. Certain devices require a specific tool to complete the reset, but you should be able find instructions that apply to the model you're using.

Another option for resolving problems with your key fob is to contact an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These experts are able replace and program key fobs on almost all makes of cars. Additionally, they can also repair car keys with chips in the keys.