Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Being tossed around in purses and pockets keys fobs can get damaged and stop registering presses with accuracy. This issue can be addressed by replacing the battery that is typically found in the snap-out case that comes with most car remote key repair fobs.

If the contacts inside your key fob have damaged, a new replacement might not be enough to revive it. This is a straightforward fix you can do at home.

Replace the battery

If your key fob is feeling sluggish or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Fortunately, replacing a key fob battery is one of the easiest tasks you can complete yourself. It's also a cost-effective solution that will help you avoid a trip to a professional locksmith or dealership.

You can buy coins-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general store. The key fobs come with an opening for these batteries and it is easy to replace the battery. Depending on the manufacturer you might need to use a screwdriver to open the compartment.

Certain key fobs have clips that hold the battery in place. If so then gently lift them up with your fingers or a non-metallic device. Remove the old battery and replace it with an alternative one, and be careful to note its orientation so that you can put it in the correct place. Avoid touching the flat surfaces of the batteries as this can reduce their life.

Once the new battery is installed and the key fob is closed, close its case and test it by pushing the button to confirm it is working. If it's still not working, you may need to open the case again and make sure that the new battery is inserted correctly.

It's also possible that a simple battery replacement will not be enough to resolve the issue, like physical or electrical trauma. In this situation, you'll need bring your key fob into a dealer or automotive service center to repair. Before you do this, there are four issues that replacing the battery won't solve. It is crucial to be aware of the issues so that you are able to seek out a qualified technician if necessary. You can also read how to fix the faulty transmitter of a key fob to determine the reason why it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

Keeping your key fob clean is vital to its functionality and lifespan. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can build up in key fob's buttons and in the crevices. This can cause keys to not function. It's easy enough to fix all you need is rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.

The key fob must be opened first by gently prying the battery out with either a screwdriver or coin. Make sure you note the type of battery it is (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you put it back in the correct way when you are finished.

Then, wet a swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and start cleaning away the dirt from all the buttons on the fob and the surrounding areas. Be particular about the battery's contacts, making sure that they are free of grease or dirt. When you are done, let the fob and all its components completely dry.

If your fob still won't function after cleaning it, it might be an ideal idea to reset the system. Consult your owner’s manual to find out how to reset the system. If the key fob is dead, this may be enough to bring it back to life.

After the key fob has been cleaned and resynthesized, it is a great idea to keep up with regular maintenance. You can keep your key fob working well for many years by wiping it clean with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the System

Although today's modern key fobs have more features, are safer, and more convenient than ever, they can still encounter some problems. Most of the time these problems aren't major or complicated and can be solved with simple solutions, like changing the battery. If the problem is more severe or the issue isn't resolved using simple methods an expert auto repair shop can repair and replace the key fob.

The device's primary function is to lock or unlock your car, however you can also make use of it to activate certain features of your vehicle. The key fob can be used to lower or raise the sunroof. This feature is extremely useful when you're stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. The key fob can be used to summon your vehicle when it is parked in a tight spot.

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. Sometimes, moisture or other sources of electromagnetic interference can affect the operation of a key fob. If your key fob is damaged by dust or been wet, it needs to be cleaned before you can use it again.

If the device continues to behave in a strange manner after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you could need to perform the factory reset. This will help eliminate system issues and restore operation of the device.

If you're unsure the best way to perform a reset then consult the device's owner's guide or the manufacturer's site. Certain models require a specific tool to complete the reset however, you should be able find instructions that apply to the specific model you have.

Another option to resolve issues with your key fob is to contact an Apache Junction mobile car key repair car key fob repairs near me locksmith. These experts can program and replace keyfobs for almost all car models. In addition, they can also repair car keys that have chips inside the keys.