Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery
When they are tossed around in purses and pockets keys fobs can get damaged and stop registering presses with accuracy. Replacing the battery, which most car fobs have in a snap-out bag, may fix the problem.
However, a fresh replacement could not be able to revive your key fob if the switch's internal contacts are worn out. This is a simple fix you can perform at home.
Replace the battery
If your key fob is feeling sluggish or takes longer than usual to unlock or lock your car, it may be time to replace the battery. Replacing a key fob's battery is among those easy tasks that you can perform yourself. This is a straightforward fix that will save you money on a trip to the dealership or a locksmith.
You can purchase a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts, home improvement, or general retailer. Key fobs typically come with a slot for the batteries, and opening the case to replace batteries is relatively simple. Depending on the brand you might need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.
If car key repair service has clips that keep the batteries in place, remove them using your fingers or with non-metallic tools. Install the new battery, making sure to place it in the correct way. Be aware of its orientation when you remove the old one. It is essential to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces, since finger marks can reduce their lifespan.
After the new battery has been installed and the key fob is closed, close its case and test it by pressing the button to make sure it is working. If it's still not working it may be necessary to reopen the fob and check that the new battery is properly installed.
You may also find that replacing the battery isn't enough to solve the issue. This could be caused by electrical damage or physical trauma. In that scenario, you'll have to bring your key fob to a dealer or automotive service center to repair. But, before doing so, there are four issues that a replacement battery won't solve. It is crucial to be aware of the issues so that you're able to seek out an experienced technician should you need. You should also read about how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to understand the reasons it may not be functioning properly.
Clean the Contacts
Keeping your key fob clean is vital to its functionality and life. Over time, natural oils from your hands and pockets can accumulate on the crevices and buttons and may cause keys to cease working altogether. All you require is rubbing alcohol, an swab of cotton and alcohol rubbing.
Then, open the key fob by taking the lid off with an instrument or coin and gently removing the battery. Note the nature of the battery (negative and positive sides) so you can put it back in the correct way.
After that you can make use of a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons and the surrounding areas of the fob. Pay particular attention to the battery's contacts and ensure that they are clean. Once you're done cleaning the fob, let it and its components completely dry.
If your fob isn't functioning even after cleaning, you might need to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device to find out how to reset the system. This could bring the key fob back to life if the issue was simply the battery being dead.
Once the key fob has been cleaned and resynced it is a great idea to maintain regular maintenance. You can ensure that 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 are equipped with more features that are safer, more secure, and are more convenient than ever before, they can still encounter some problems. Fortunately, most times, these issues aren't serious or complex and are usually solved with simple solutions such as replacing the battery. If the problem is more serious or the issue isn't resolved with simple methods such as a professional auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.
Getting your car to lock or unlock using the key fob is the primary function of the device, but it also can be used to activate certain features of your vehicle. The key fob can be used to lift or lower a sunroof. This feature can be very useful if you need to open the roof while you are stuck in traffic or your hands are full. The key fob is also useful for summoning your car when it's parked in a shady place.
The key fob's internal circuitry and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs are erratic behavior or a complete failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes, moisture or other sources of electromagnetic interference could interfere with the operation of a key fob. If your key fob has been contaminated with dust or has become wet, it must be cleaned before you use it again.
If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you may require the factory reset. This will eliminate bugs in the system and restore the performance of the device.
If you're not sure how to do the factory reset on your device, refer to the website of the manufacturer of your device or the manual of your owner. Certain models require a specific tool to complete the reset, but you should be able to find the instructions for the specific model you have.
Contacting a mobile locksmith for cars in Apache Junction is another option to solve problems with your key fob. These experts are able replace and program key fobs for nearly all car models. They can also fix keys with chips.