20 Fun Informational Facts About Key Fob Repair Key Fob Repair: Replacing the Battery

The buttons on key fobs can become damaged and stop functioning properly after being tossed around in pockets and purses. This problem can be fixed by replacing the battery that is usually located in the snap-out cases of the majority of car fobs.

If the contacts on your key fob have worn, a new replacement may not be sufficient to make it work again. It's a good thing that this is an easy fix you can attempt at home:

Replace the Battery

If your key fob seems slow or takes longer than usual to unlock or lock your vehicle, it could be time to replace the battery. It's good news that replacing the battery of your key fob is among the simplest tasks you can complete yourself. It's also a cheap fix that can help you avoid a trip to a professional locksmith or dealership.

Most key fobs require a coin-style battery (CR2032 or similar) which can be found at any general store or home improvement center or auto parts store. The key fobs come with slots for these batteries, and it is easy to replace the battery. Depending on the brand you might need make use of a screwdriver to open the compartment.


Certain key fobs have clips that secure the battery in place. If so then gently lift them up with your fingers or with a non-metallic tool. Install the new battery, making sure to place it in the correct way. Note its orientation when you remove the old one. It is crucial to avoid touching the batteries' flat surfaces, since scratches from fingers can decrease their lifespan.

Once the new battery is installed, close the key fob's case and test it by pushing the button to ensure it is working. If the key fob doesn't function, you may need to open it again and ensure that the battery is properly inserted.

It is also possible that a simple replacement of the battery isn't enough to solve the issue, for instance electrical damage or physical trauma. In that case, you'll need to bring your key fob into an auto service or dealer center for repair. But, before doing so, there are four issues that a battery replacement won't solve. It is important to be aware of these issues, so that you can seek help from a qualified technician if you need it. You can also learn how to fix the malfunctioning transmitter of a key fob in order to find out why it is not working.

Clean the Contacts

It is important to keep your key fobs clean to maintain their functionality and longevity. 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 lead to keys to stop working. All you need is rubbing alcohol the cotton swab, and some alcohol to rub it on.

The key fob must be opened first by gently prying the battery out using the help of a screwdriver or a coin. Make sure you note the type of battery it's (negative and positive sides) to ensure that you put it back in the correct way when you are finished.

After that then, apply a cotton swab (or a small brush) to clean the buttons and the surrounding areas of the fob. Be sure to pay particular attention to the battery's contacts and make sure they are clean. After you're done, make sure to allow the fob and its components dry completely.

If your device isn't working even after cleaning, you may need to reset the system. Check the owner's manual for the 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.

It is important to maintain the key fob regularly after it has been cleaned and synchronized. By regularly wiping it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, you can make sure that your key fob will function well for many the years to come.

Reset the System

Despite the fact that today's high-tech key fobs are more efficient and secure than ever, it is possible to encounter some problems. Fortunately, most of the time, these issues aren't serious or complex and are usually fixed with simple methods like replacing the battery. If car key repairs near me is more serious, or if the issue can't be solved using simple methods, a professional auto repair shop can replace and reprogram the key fob.

Getting your car to lock or unlock with the key fob is the main purpose of the device however, it can also be used to enable certain car features. The key fob can be used to lower or lift a sunroof. This feature is very helpful when you are stuck in traffic and need to open your roof. Key fobs are also useful for summoning your car when it's parked in a shady location.

The internal circuitry of the key fob could fail because of manufacturing defects or wear and wear and tear. Signs of this include irregular behavior, or an inability to lock or unlock the car. Sometimes moisture, or other sources of electromagnetic interference can affect the operation of a key fob. If your key fob has become dirty or wet, or is contaminated by 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 may require an initial reset. This will help eliminate system issues and restore performance of the device.

If you're unsure how to do the factory reset on your device, consult the website of the manufacturer of your device or the owner's manual. Certain devices require special tools to reset them, but you'll find instructions specific to your model.

Another option to resolve problems with your key fob is to call an Apache Junction mobile car locksmith. These professionals can repair and program keyfobs for almost all car models. They can also fix keys that have chips.