Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs may get damaged and stop working properly after being jostled in purses and pockets. This issue can be addressed by replacing the small battery that is typically found in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.

If the contacts inside your key fob are damaged, a new replacement may not be enough to make it work again. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that you can try at home:

Replace the Battery

If your key fob seems slow or takes longer than normal to unlock or lock your car, it might be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is among those easy tasks you can complete yourself. This is a simple fix that will save you money and time on a trip to the dealership or locksmith.

You can purchase coins-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general retailer. The key fobs usually have a slot that can accept these batteries and opening the case to swap out batteries is relatively simple. Depending on the manufacturer, you might require a screwdriver or other tool to remove the cover from the compartment for batteries.

If your key fob has clips that hold the batteries in place, remove them with your fingers or other non-metallic tools. Remove the old battery and install 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 batteries since this can reduce their life.

After the new battery has been installed, 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 might need to open the case again and make sure whether the new battery has been properly inserted.

It could also be that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to solve the issue. This could be caused by physical or electrical trauma. In this scenario, you will need to bring your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. But, before doing this, you should be aware of four common problems that a battery replacement can't solve. You must be aware of these issues so that you can seek assistance from a certified technician if needed. You can also learn how to fix the malfunctioning transmitter of a key fob to determine the reason why it's not working.

Clean the Contacts

It is important to keep your key fobs clean in order to maintain their function and durability. Over time, the natural oils on your fingers and pockets can build up in key fob's buttons and crevices. This can lead to keys to stop working. It's not difficult to fix, though - all you need is some ruby alcohol and a cotton swab.

Then, open the key fob by taking the lid off with an instrument or coin and gently removing the battery. Note the type of battery (negative and positive side) to ensure you reinstall it correctly.

Then, apply a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons as well as the surrounding areas of the fob. Pay particular attention to the battery's contacts, ensuring that they are free of grease or dirt. After you have finished cleaning the fob, let it and all its components completely dry.

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. If the key fob was dead, this could be enough to bring it back to life.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynced, it is a great idea to ensure regular maintenance. By regularly 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

Despite the fact that today's modern-day key fobs are more powerful and secure than ever, it is possible to have certain problems. Most of the time, these issues aren’t serious or complex and can be resolved with simple procedures, such as changing the battery. If the problem is serious or isn't resolved with simple techniques such as auto repair shops, they will replace and reprogram your key fob.

The primary purpose of the device is to lock or unlock your car, however you can also make use of it to activate certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lift or lower the sunroof. This feature is useful when you have to open the roof when stuck in traffic or your hands are full. The key fob is also helpful in bringing your broken car key repair to life even if it's in an awkward location.

The internal circuitry inside a key fob can malfunction because of manufacturing defects or wear and tear. Symptoms include erratic behavior, or an inability to lock or unlock the car key fob repair service. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can sometimes interfere with the proper function of a keyfob. If your key fob has become wet or contaminated with dust, it will require cleaning prior to being used again.

If the device continues to behave erratically after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you could have to perform a factory resetting. This can fix system-related issues and improve device performance.

If you're unsure how to do the factory reset on your device, check the website of the manufacturer of your device or your owner's manual. Some devices require special tools to reset them, however you'll need to find the correct instructions for your specific model.

Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to fix problems with your key fob. These professionals can replace and program keyfobs to fit almost all car key repair near me models. In addition, they can also repair car keys with chips in them.