How to Repair a Remote Key
Even though most remote key fobs come with impressive battery life, they do eventually wear out. Sometimes it's as simple as replacing the batteries in the device, however sometimes the problem can be more serious.
One quick fix that may help is taking apart the remote by cleaning the buttons and stretching them out and in. These techniques may be all you need to get your key fob working again.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries and they can be swapped out when the fob is functional. If not then you can remove the fob and inspect the buttons and battery terminals to look for signs of wear or damaged parts. You should be able 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 you're not sure if the battery is the issue, try using a backup key fob to see whether you can unlock or start your car with it. If it's possible, it's probably time to replace your primary fob. If it's not, a professional inspection is necessary to determine the reason it's not working correctly. It could be as easy as reprogramming, or it could require other repairs. There's also the possibility that your vehicle has lost your fob, which isn't something you can fix yourself.
Case Study
The case of a remote key is the plastic housing that covers the outside and typically comes with a button pad that is replaced. broken car key repair near me is important to use an entirely new case since the original will probably be pretty grungy and it is vital that the circuit board is installed correctly in the case. The circuit board is responsible for the function of the key fob. It can be tested with a normal multimeter by setting it to the RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a scanner tuned to the same frequency the key fob is using next to it, watching for pulsing signals upon the button's presses.
Check the contact points on the buttons on the keypad. They may be loose over time or have been damaged. By carefully re-soldering them back into their original position can usually restore the functionality of the keypad unless they break completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons aren't working anymore or are difficult to press, you can buy an alternative dorman or Motormite remote key housing on the internet at a the lowest cost for the model/year/make. Then, you can slide the circuit board from your old case into the new one. For certain models it may be necessary to adjust the position of the board slightly. The black contact points of the buttons can be bonded to aluminum foil using double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob and receiver inside your car are connected, but this connection can be corrupted. A professional will assess your vehicle to determine the year, make and model. They will then employ specialist equipment to reconnect or program a blank transponder chip or fob (or clone the key if possible). Then, they test the remote to make sure that it works.
When programming blank keys it is crucial to take care. The process is complicated and each manufacturer comes with slightly different instructions. It is easy to miss a crucial step or to wait too long to exit the programming mode. To avoid the risk of causing damage to your vehicle, it is best to work with an expert with vast knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Certain programming tools can also be capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which can assist in fixing or resolving any other issues.