How to Repair a Remote Key
Although many remote key fobs boast impressive battery life, they will eventually wear out. Some times it is as simple as replacing the batteries inside the device, but in other cases the issue could be more serious.
A quick fix that can help is dismantling the remote and cleaning the buttons before flexing them in and out. These techniques may be all that you need to get your key fob working properly.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, and they can often be replaced when the fob is functional. If it's not accessible, you can take it off the fob and check the batteries' terminals and buttons for any signs of looseness or broken parts. Often the terminals and buttons can be soldered back in place but you'll need know exactly what type of battery the fob is using.
If you're not sure if the battery is the problem you can utilize a backup fob in order to start or unlock your car. If you are able to do so, it's time to replace the primary fob. If it's not, you will need to have a professional examine it to find the problem. It could be a simple reconfiguration, or it may require other types repair. You may also find that your vehicle has lost the fob. This 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 button pad that is replaced. It is important to use an entirely new case since the original one is likely to be pretty grungy and it is crucial that the circuit board is set correctly inside the case. The circuit board is the main component of the key fob and can be tested with a normal multimeter by setting it to RF (radio frequency) mode and then holding a radio scanner tuned to the frequency the key fob operates on close to it, and listening for signals that pulsate upon pressing the button.
Check the contact points on the buttons on the keypad. They could have become loose over time or broken. A careful soldering process to put them back in place will often restore them to their original function unless they snap off completely.
Buttons
If the buttons on your key fob no longer work or are difficult to press you may need a dorman or motormite key housing replacement for your remote can be purchased for a low price online for the year/make/model you have. Then, you can take the circuit board out of your old case and put it into the new one. You may need to adjust the position of the board on some models. The black contact points of the buttons can be bonded to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob and the receiver in your car are linked, but this connection can be corrupted. A professional will examine the car to determine the manufacturer, year, year and model and use specialist equipment to re-pair or program the fob with a blank transponder chip (or duplicate a key in the event that it is possible). Then they test the remote to be sure it works.
It is crucial to be careful when reprogramming the blank key, because the process can be a bit complicated and different manufacturers have distinct steps. 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 reduce the chance of damaging your car. Certain programming tools that are essential to use can also read diagnostic trouble codes on your vehicle. automotive key repair can help you repair or troubleshoot other issues.