Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

Getting jostled around in pockets and purses key fob buttons may be damaged and not register presses reliably. Replacing the battery, which a majority of car fobs are equipped with in a snap-out bag, may fix the issue.

However, a fresh replacement may not revive your key fob if its internal switch contacts are worn out. It's a good thing that this is an easy fix that you can try at home:

Replace the Battery

If your key fob feels slow or takes a longer time to unlock or lock your vehicle, it could be time to replace the battery. The replacement of a key fob's battery is one of the easy tasks you can complete yourself. It is also an inexpensive solution that will save you a trip to an expert locksmith or a dealership.

You can buy a coin-style (CR2032) battery at any auto parts or home improvement general store. The key fobs usually come with a slot for the batteries, and opening the case to swap out batteries is fairly straightforward. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need to use a screwdriver or another tool to remove the cover from the compartment for batteries.

If your key fob has clips that hold the batteries in place, gently remove them using your fingers or other non-metallic tools. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with a new one, being cautious to note the orientation so that you can install it correctly. It is essential to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces, since finger marks 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 make sure it is working. If it doesn't work it may be necessary to open the case again and make sure whether the new battery has been properly installed.

It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery will not be enough to resolve the issue, for instance physical or electrical injury. In this instance you'll be required to take your key fob to a dealer or auto service center to make repairs. However, before doing so, there are four common issues that a battery replacement won't fix. It is crucial to be aware of these 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 find out why it is not working.

Clean the Contacts

Maintaining your key fob's cleanliness is vital to its functionality and lifespan. Over time the natural oils on your fingers and pocket dust can accumulate in the key fob's buttons and in the crevices. This can cause the keys not to work. It's easy enough to fix, though all key repair car you need is ruby alcohol and a cotton swab.

The key fob must be opened first by gently prying the battery out with either a screwdriver or coin. Note the type of battery (negative and positive side) to ensure you reinstall it correctly.

Then, wet a cotton swab or small brush with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and begin cleansing the dirt off all of the fob's buttons and the surrounding areas. Be sure to pay particular attention to the contacts of the battery and ensure that they are clean. Once you are done, be sure to allow the fob and its components completely dry.

If your device doesn't work after cleaning it, it may be a good idea to reset the system. Go through the owner's manual of your device to learn how to reset the system. This may be able to bring the key fob back to normal if the issue was due to the battery being dead.

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

Reset the system

Even though today's high tech key fobs come with more features, are safer, and are more convenient than they ever were, they can still encounter some issues. Fortunately, most times the issues aren't major or complicated and are often resolved with simple techniques such as replacing the battery. If the issue is more serious or is not resolved with simple methods such as auto repair shops, they will replace and change the key fob.

The primary function of the device is to lock or unlock your car, but you can also use it to activate certain vehicle features. The key fob can be used to lift or lower a sunroof. This feature is useful if you need to open the roof while stuck in traffic or your hands are full. The key fob can be used to summon your car when it's parked in a tight place.

The key fob's internal circuitry and buttons can become faulty due to manufacturing defects or wear-and-tear. It could be a sign of erratic behavior or total failure to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, as well as other electromagnetic interference sources can affect the operation of a key fob. If your key fob has become damp or contaminated by dust, it's likely to require cleaning prior to being used again.

If the device continues to behave unpredictably after replacing the key fob or cleaning the contacts, you may have to perform the factory reset. This will fix system issues and improve the performance of your device.

If you are unsure of the best way to perform a reset, consult your device's owner's manual or the manufacturer's site. Certain devices require specialized tools to reset them, but you'll need to find the correct instructions for the model you have.

Contacting a mobile car locksmith in Apache Junction is another option to fix problems with your keyfob. They are able to replace and program key fobs for almost all makes of cars. They can also fix keys that have chips.