How to Repair a Remote Key
While the majority of remote key fobs are equipped with impressive battery lives they'll eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as simple as changing the batteries, but occasionally there are more serious issues.
Take apart the remote and clean the buttons. Then, flex them in and out. These steps could be all you need to get your key fob working.
Battery
If the fob is functioning, you can swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If it's not accessible, you can take it off the fob and inspect the buttons and battery terminals for any signs of looseness or damaged parts. The terminals and buttons can be soldered back in place but you'll need know exactly what kind of battery your fob uses.
If you're not sure whether the battery is the problem you can use a backup fob to start or unlock your vehicle. If you're able to do so, it's probably time to replace the primary fob. If it's not require replacement, you'll need to have a professional inspect it to determine the issue. It could be as easy as reprogramming, or it could require other repairs. You might also discover that your vehicle has forgotten the fob. This is not something you can fix by yourself.
Case Study
The plastic housing that covers the outside of a remote is called the case. It is usually equipped with a replacement button pad. how to repair car key fob is best to use a brand new case, since the original one case is likely to be quite grungy. It is essential that the circuit board inside the case is properly positioned. 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 then holding a radio scanner tuned to the same frequency that the key fob uses close to it, and listening for pulsing signals when a button presses.
Another thing to look at is the button contact points on the keypad, which might be loose or damaged over time. Soldering them back to their original position can often restore them to full functionality, in the event that they break completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons are no longer working or are difficult to press, you can buy a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing online at the lowest cost for the model/year/make. Then, pop the circuit board out of your old case and insert it into the new one. You may have to slightly adjust the position of your circuit board for certain models. The black contact points of the buttons can be bonded to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is paired with the receiver in your vehicle and this connection can be corrupted. A professional will assess the vehicle to determine the make model, year and model. They will employ specialist equipment to re-pair or program an empty fob or transponder chip (or duplicate a key should this be possible). Then they test the remote to make sure that it works.
When programming blank keys, it is important to be careful. The process is complicated and each manufacturer comes with distinct instructions. It is easy to miss a crucial step or to wait too long to exit the programming mode. To minimize the risk of causing damage to your vehicle it is recommended to work with an expert with vast knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Certain key programming tools also have the capability of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which can assist in fixing or resolving any additional problems.