Car Key Button Repair
A broken car key is a hassle. It is possible to call the 24 hour Locksmith Service or purchase a replacement remote.
However, you might be able to save money by fixing an old key fob instead of replacing it. This is especially true if the problem is due to the worn-out switch or defective contact.
Battery
If the buttons on your key fob are not responding to your pressing them, this could be a sign the battery has died or is close to the end of life. Fortunately replacing the battery is an easy task that can be completed on your own instead of paying a locksmith or dealership to complete the task for you.
First look for the battery compartment. The battery compartment is usually located on the back of the key fob, and can be concealed behind a cover that can slide out or a button that opens the access point. Once the compartment is opened then you will find the small battery. It is usually shaped like an oblong coin and is has the plus and minus signs. Remove the battery that is old and replace it with a new one. Check that the plus and the minus symbols are properly aligned.
Once the battery is installed, close the compartment and snap the two halves of the key fob. Be sure to align the two pieces and snap them in place correctly prior to closing the door and testing your keys. Press any of the buttons to confirm that they work properly.
If your remote keyfob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, there may be other issues that require a different form of repair. Dropping the device in a puddle could cause it to cease functioning. It could also be a problem with the internal electrical system or need to be deprogrammed. Find out if the issue is with your key fob using these other common methods for troubleshooting your car.
Switches
There are many kinds of switches that are used in the car key fob, depending on the year and make. The older type keys usually have an additional chip that is visible in the case, whereas the modern keys are more sophisticated and function by sending signals to the car. The buttons on a key may be worn out or damaged due to normal use, regardless of the type. They become difficult to press or unresponsive. If you press the button with force, it could cause further damage. It may also prevent the key from functioning in the future.
If your key doesn't appear to be working, you should first try changing the battery. If this doesn't work, then you might need to clean the key fob or re-adjust its switches. These tiny electronic switches are more susceptible than the larger parts of the key to break due to the fact that they are constantly tossed about.
The switches feel rubbery and are coated with a film that conducts electricity. The film is prone to fade over time. They're fortunately tiny and inexpensive to replace. They're soldered on the circuit board, therefore it is important to remove the old ones without damaging other components. Then, you can solder the new ones in and reassemble your key fob.
An effective way to protect your car key fob from becoming damaged is to avoid using it for more than a few hours at a time and to keep it out of the way in areas where it can be seen. If you're not using your key, put it away in a secure place.
If you've tried cleaning your key fob and replacing the battery, and the problem persists it's time to think about hiring a locksmith. A professional locksmith can test the frequency of your key to see whether it's still able communicate with your vehicle, and open and replace micro switches, swap cases, and more.
Outer Case
If the buttons don't move freely up and down the case, they may be stuck or even break. If cleaning the case using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab doesn't work, it might be necessary to remove the case. If the contacts that the buttons touch don't fit well or are worn out, adjusting them could be the only solution to fix the issue.
Rubber buttons can be worn out over time. The rubber stretches, nails gouge into it, and the buttons become difficult to press. In this scenario the key could fail, and it's time to replace the case or button. This repair involves disassembling your remote, locating the switch on the board, heating the solder, and carefully taking them off. The circuit board is soldered with new buttons. The case is then reassembled and the horse shoe key blade piece inserted. The new buttons must be a close fit inside the case to avoid them from falling out.
Inner Case
Since your key fob is likely get jostled around and may sometimes be accidentally pressed and the buttons within can get damaged or stuck over time. Using car key and repair and a hole-punch, you can solve this issue in the event that your vehicle isn't at home and the key fob won't work, allowing you to unlock the doors, but not start the engine. This simple fix can allow you to return safely to your vehicle to complete your trip.