How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs boast impressive battery life, they do eventually get worn out. Sometimes car key repairs 's as simple as changing the batteries inside the device, however sometimes the issue can be more severe.
Take apart the remote and clean the buttons. Then bend them out and in. These methods could be all that you need to get your key fob working again.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, and they can often be swapped out in the event that the device is functional. If not accessible, you can take it off the fob and examine the batteries' terminals and buttons to look for signs of wear or broken parts. It is usually possible to solder the terminals and buttons back into their original positions. However, you'll have to know the type of battery is used in the fob.
If the battery isn't the problem you can try a backup key fob to determine if you can unlock or start your car using it. If you are able to do so, it's time for a replacement of the primary fob. If it doesn't require replacement, you'll require a professional to assess the fob to identify the issue. It could be as easy as reprogramming or it may require different types of repairs. There's also the possibility that your vehicle forgotten your fob and isn't something you can fix on your own.
Case Study
The case of a remote key is the outer plastic housing and usually comes with the replacement button pad. It is best to use a brand new case, as the original case is likely to be quite grungy. It is essential that the circuit board in the case is properly positioned. The circuit board is responsible for the function of the key fob. It can be tested using a standard multimeter by setting it to the RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a scanner tuned to the same frequency that the key fob uses next to it, watching for pulsing signals upon the button's presses.
Another thing to check is the contact points for buttons on the keypad, which may have become loose or broken over time. By carefully re-soldering them back into place will often restore them to full functionality unless they snap off completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons are no longer working or are difficult to push, you can buy a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing on the internet at a an affordable cost for the model/year/make. Then, take the circuit board out of your old case and into the new one. In some cases it may be necessary to adjust the position of the board slightly. Then, you can use aluminum foil using double-sided tape to adhere to the black contact points on the buttons.
Programming
The key fob is connected with the receiver inside your vehicle, and this connection can become corrupted. A professional will examine the car to determine the manufacturer, year, year and model and employ specialist equipment to re-pair or program a blank fob or transponder chip (or clone a key should this be possible). They will then test the remote to make sure that it works.
When programming blank keys it is essential to take care. The process is complex and each manufacturer has different instructions. It is also possible to miss a step or wait too long before exiting the programming mode, which is why it is recommended to hire professionals with extensive knowledge of the security system of your vehicle to avoid damaging your car. Certain key programming tools are also capable of analyzing diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle. This can aid in repairing or resolving other issues.