How to Repair a Remote Key
While the majority of remote key fobs have excellent battery life, they will eventually wear out. Some times it is simple to replace the batteries in the device, but in other cases the problem can be more serious.
A quick fix that can aid is to disassemble the remote, cleaning the buttons and moving them in and out. These techniques may be all that you need to get your key fob back in working order.
Battery
If the fob is still functioning it is possible to swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If not, you can open the fob and check the batteries' terminals and buttons for any indication of looseness or broken parts. You should be able to connect the terminals and buttons back into place. However, you will be required to know which type of battery is used in the fob.
If the battery isn't the problem, try using a backup key fob to see whether you are able to unlock or start your vehicle using it. If it's possible, it's time to replace the primary fob. If it's not, a professional inspection is necessary to determine the reason it's not working correctly. It could be as simple as reconfiguration, or it may require other types repair. There's also the possibility that your vehicle has forgotten your fob and isn't something you can fix on your own.
Case
The case of remote keys is the plastic case that surrounds it and typically comes with a button pad replacement. It is best to use an entirely new case since the original one will likely to be extremely filthy. It is essential that the circuit board in the case is placed correctly. The circuit board is the main component of the key fob and can be tested using a standard multimeter by setting it to RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a radio scanner tuned to the same frequency that the key fob is using next to it, listening for signals that pulsate upon button presses.
Another thing to check is the button contact points on the keypad. These could be loose or damaged in the course of time. Soldering them back in place can often restore them to their original functionality, except if they break completely.
Buttons
If the buttons on your key fob don't work anymore or are difficult to press, a dorman or motormite remote key housing replacement can be bought inexpensively online for your year/make and model. Then, simply pop the circuit board out of your old case into the new one. You may have to slightly adjust the position of your circuit board on certain models. You can then use aluminum foil and double-sided tape to adhere to the black contact points on the buttons.
Programming
The key fob is connected with the receiver in your vehicle, and this connection could be damaged. vehicle key repairs will assess the vehicle to determine the make, year and model and make use of specialist equipment to repair or program an empty fob or transponder chip (or make a key replica in the event that it is possible). Then, they test the remote to be sure that it works.
It is crucial to be cautious when programming a blank key, as the process can be complicated and different brands require slightly different steps. It is also possible to skip a step or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, so it is recommended to work with professionals with extensive knowledge of your car's security system to minimize the risk of damaging your car. Some key programming tools can also be capable of analyzing diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which could assist in fixing or resolving any other problems.