Car Key Button Repair
A broken car key can be a source of frustration. It is possible to call a 24-hour Locksmith Service or purchase a replacement remote.
You could save money by fixing your old key fob instead of replacing it. This is especially true if the problem is caused by the worn-out switch or defective contact.
Battery
If the buttons on the key fob aren't responding to pressing it, that could be a sign that the battery is dying or at the end of its life. Fortunately, replacing the battery is a simple task that you can complete by yourself rather than paying a locksmith or dealership to take care of it.
Locate the battery compartment first. This is usually found on the backside of the key fob. It may be hidden behind the cover, which slides out, or an access point which opens when you press a button. When the compartment is open then you will find the small battery. It is usually shaped like a coin and has a plus and minus sign. Remove the battery from the old one and replace it with a new one in its place, making sure that the plus and minus symbols are properly aligned.
Close the compartment and snap the two halves of your key fob. Before closing the door make sure to align and snap the pieces into place. To ensure whether the buttons function properly, press any of them.
If your remote keyfob does not work after replacing the battery, there could be other problems that require a different type of repair. Dropping the fob into a puddle can cause it to stop working. 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 by using these other common automotive troubleshooting methods.
Switches
Based on the year and make, there are different kinds of switches that are found in the car keyfob. The older style key is equipped with an embedded chip that can be seen in the case. The modern keys function by transmitting signals to your car. The buttons on a key can be damaged or worn out due to regular use, irrespective of the type. The result is they become difficult to press or even ineffective. If you try to force the button to function, it can cause further damage and potentially stop the key from starting your vehicle in the future.
If you are unable to get your key to function Try changing the batteries. If that doesn't help it may be necessary to clean your key fob and re-adjust the switches. Since these tiny electronic switches spend a lot of time getting jostled around, they are more likely to fail than the larger parts of your key.
The switches are rubber-like, and are coated with an electricity conducting film that can wear down over time. Luckily, they're also tiny and cheap to replace. The older ones are soldered to the circuit board so you'll need to be careful to remove them without damaging anything else. Then you can solder the new ones in and reassemble your key fob.
Avoid using key fob repairs for more than a couple of hours at a stretch and avoid leaving it visible. Also, make sure you find a secure location to keep your key in when you're not using it.
If the issue persists after you've cleaned your key fob, replaced the battery and tried to clean it, you might need to contact a locksmith. A professional can check the frequency of your key to see whether it's still able communicate with your vehicle, and open and replace micro switches, alter cases and much more.
Outer Case
If the buttons aren't able to move freely up and down in the case, they could get stuck or break. If cleaning the case using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab doesn't work, it may be necessary to remove the case. If the contacts the buttons touch are not a good fit, or if they are worn, adjusting them may be the only option.
Rubber buttons may wear out over the years. car key fob repairs and nails cut into it, and the buttons become difficult to press. In this scenario the key may fail, and it's time to replace the case or button. This repair involves removing your remote, finding the switch on the board, heating the solder, and carefully taking them off. The circuit board then gets soldered with new buttons. The case can be reassembled and the horseshoe key blade piece can be attached. The new buttons should be snugly fitted inside the case to prevent them from falling out.
Inner Case
Since your key fob is likely to be tossed around and could sometimes be accidentally pressed and the buttons inside may get damaged or stuck over time. If your key fob ceases to function when you're away from home, you can fix the problem quickly by using metallic tape and a punch hole. This will allow you to open doors but not start your car. This simple fix will allow you to safely make it back to your vehicle and complete your journey.