Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs could become damaged and stop working after being tossed around in pockets and purses. This issue can be addressed by replacing the battery that is usually found in the snap-out cases of most car fobs.

But, a new one may not revive your key fob if the switch's internal contacts are worn out. Fortunately, this is an easy fix you can attempt at home:

Replace the Battery

It may be time to change the battery if your key fob isn't working properly or takes longer to unlock or lock your car than normal. It's good news that replacing a key fob battery is one of the easiest tasks that you can do yourself. It is also an inexpensive fix that can save you the hassle of an expert locksmith or a dealership.

The majority of key fobs need batteries that look like coins (CR2032 or similar) which you can purchase at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts store. The key fobs have an opening for these batteries, and it is simple to replace the battery. Depending on the brand, you may have make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.

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

Close the case of the fob's key and test the functionality by pressing the button. If the key fob still isn't working, you might have to reopen it and ensure that the battery is inserted correctly.

You may also find that simply replacing the battery isn't enough to resolve the issue. This could be caused by physical trauma or electrical damage. In this case, you'll need to bring your key fob to an auto service or dealer center to be repaired. Before you do this, there are four issues the replacement battery can't fix. You must be aware of these issues, to be able to seek assistance from a certified technician when necessary. You should also read about how to fix a key fob's faulty transmitter to understand why it may not be functioning properly.

Clean the Contacts

Maintaining your key fob's cleanliness is crucial to its function and life. Over time, the natural oils of your hands and pockets can build up on the keys' crevices and buttons, and can even cause the keys to stop working altogether. All you need is rubbing alcohol, the cotton swab, and some rubbing alcool.

First, open up the key fob by removing the lid off using a screwdriver or coin and gently prying out the battery. Make sure to note down the kind of battery it's (negative and positive sides) so that you can insert it again correctly after you are finished.

After that, use a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons and the surrounding areas of the fob. Pay special 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 device doesn't function after cleaning it, it might be a good idea to reset the system. Check the owner's manual to find out how to reset the system. This may be able to bring the key fob back to life if the problem was simply due to a dead battery.

After the key fob's been cleaned and resynced, it is a great idea to keep up with regular maintenance. You can ensure that your key fob in good working order for a long time by wiping it with a damp towel and mild soap.

Reset the system

Although today's modern key fobs have more features, are safer, and are more convenient than they ever were but they are still susceptible to some issues. The majority of these issues aren't too serious or difficult and can be resolved with simple methods, such as changing the battery. If the issue is more serious or cannot be resolved by simple techniques such as auto repair shops, they will replace and change the key fob.

The primary purpose of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also make use of it to enable certain features of your vehicle. One example is the ability to lower or raise a sunroof using the key fob. This feature is very helpful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. Similarly, the key fob can be used to call your car when it's located in a tight spot.

A key fob's internal circuitry and buttons could fail due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. The signs are erratic behavior or an inability to lock or unlock the car. Moisture or other electromagnetic interference sources can sometimes interfere with the proper function of a keyfob. If your key fob has become damp or contaminated by dust, it's going to need to be cleaned before being used again.

Replacing the battery of your key fob or cleaning the contacts might fix a malfunctioning device, however, if it continues to malfunction you might need to perform a factory reset. This can clear up system issues and restore operating efficiency of the device.

If you're not sure the best way to perform a reset then consult the device's owner's manual or manufacturer's website. Certain devices require a specific tool to perform the reset, but you should be able to find the instructions for your specific model.

Contacting a mobile locksmith for cars in Apache Junction is another option to resolve issues with your key fob. They can program and replace keyfobs to fit almost all car keys repairs near me models. Additionally, they can also repair car keys with chips in them.