Car Key Button Repair
A broken car key is a hassle. You might need to call an emergency locksmith service that is available 24 hours a day for help or purchase a new remote.
You may be able save money by repairing your old key fob instead of replacing it. This is especially true when the problem is caused by the worn-out switch or defective contact.
Battery
If your key fob's buttons are not responding to your pressing them, it could indicate that the battery is dead or is close to the end of life. Fortunately replacing the battery is a simple task that can be done by yourself rather than hiring a locksmith or dealer to do it for you.
Find the battery compartment first. The battery compartment is typically located on the back of the key fob and is often concealed behind a cover that slides out or a button that opens the access point. When the compartment is open you can look for the tiny button-cell battery. It's usually shaped as an oblong coin and is marked with a plus and minus sign. Take the battery out and insert a new one in its place, making sure that the plus and minus marks are correctly aligned.
Once the battery is installed close the compartment and snap the two halves of the key fob together. Make sure you align the parts and secure them properly prior to closing the door and testing your keys. To test that the buttons function correctly you can press any one of them.
If your remote key fob stops functioning even after replacing the battery, it may be suffering from other issues that require a different type of repair. Dropping the device into a pool of water can cause it to stop working. It could also be experiencing an electrical issue within the device or may need to be deprogrammed by an expert or locksmith. Also, take a look at these common car troubleshooting tips to see if your key fob is having a problem of its own.
Switches
Depending on the year and manufacturer, there are various types of switches that are used in the keyfob of your car. The older style key is equipped with an electronic chip that is visible inside the case. The latest keys operate by transmitting signals to your car. No matter what type of key, the buttons on the key can be damaged or worn out with normal use. They become hard to press or ineffective. If you press the button too hard it could cause more damage. It could also stop the key from working in the future.
If you are unable to get your key to function, try changing the batteries. If remote car key repair doesn't work, you might need to clean your key fob or re-adjust its switches. Because these tiny electronic switches are constantly being tossed around they are more prone to break down than the larger components of your key.
The switches have a rubbery feeling and are coated with a film that conducts electricity. The film is prone to fade over time. However, they're a small part that is affordable to replace. The older ones are soldered to the circuit board, and you'll have to take care to remove them without causing damage to other parts. Then, you can solder in the new ones and reassemble your key fob.
Do not use your car key fob for more than a couple of hours at a time, and avoid leaving it visible. If you're not using your key, keep it in a secure place.
If the issue continues to persist after you've cleaned your key fob, replaced the battery and attempted to clean it, you may need to talk to a locksmith. A professional can test the frequency of your key to determine whether it's still able communicate with your vehicle, and open and replace micro switches, change cases, and more.
Outer Case
A key fob spends many hours bouncing around, and if the buttons aren't free to move upwards and downwards within the case they can get stuck or even broken. If cleaning the case using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab doesn't work, it could be necessary to take off the case. If the contacts that the buttons touch aren't a good fit or are damaged, adjusting them could be the only option.
Rubber buttons may wear out over the years. Rubber buttons can become hard to press when they stretch, and nails can cut them. In this scenario, the key may fail and it's time to replace the case or button. This repair involves removing the remote, locating the button switches on the circuit board, then heating the solder, and then carefully removing them. The circuit board is soldered with new buttons. The case can be rebuilt and the horseshoe key blade can be attached. The new buttons should be snugly fitted into the case to prevent them from falling out.
Inner Case
Over time, your key fob's buttons could be damaged or stuck because of the constant jostling and accidental pressing. If your key fob ceases to function when you're away from home, you can fix the issue fast by using metallic tape and punch holes. This will allow you to unlock doors but not start your vehicle. This quick fix could allow you to safely make it back to your vehicle and finish your trip.