How to Repair car keys repair
Although most remote key fobs have amazing battery life, they do eventually wear out. Sometimes it's as simple as replacing the batteries, however sometimes there are more serious problems.
One quick fix that may aid is to disassemble the remote, cleaning the buttons and stretching them out and in. These techniques may be all you require to get your key fob working properly.
Battery
If the fob continues to working it is possible to swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If it isn't then you can remove the fob and examine the battery terminals and buttons for any signs of looseness or broken parts. Most of the time, the buttons and terminals can be re-soldered back into place however you'll need be aware of the exact type of battery is used by your fob.
If you're unsure if the battery is the issue then utilize a backup fob in order to unlock or start your vehicle. If you're able to, it's probably time to replace the primary fob. If it doesn't then you'll require a professional examine it to find the issue. It could be as simple as reconfiguration, or it may require other types repair. There's also the possibility that your car has lost 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 usually comes with the button pad replacement. It is important to use a new case as the original one is likely to be pretty grungy, and it is essential that the circuit board is installed correctly inside the case. The circuit board controls the key fob's function. You can test it by using a multimeter set to RF (radiofrequency) mode and a radio scanner that is tuned to the same frequency as the key fob.
Check the contact points on the keys on the keypad. They could have become loose over time or broken. By carefully re-soldering them back into place will often restore the functionality of the keypad unless they snap off completely.
Buttons
If the buttons on your key fob aren't working anymore or are difficult to push, you can purchase a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing online for an affordable cost for the model/year/make. Then, you can slide the circuit board from your old case into the new one. For certain models you may have to adjust the board's position slightly. You can then use aluminum foil with double sided tape to stick 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. A professional will assess your vehicle to determine the year, make, and model. They will then use specialist equipment to recouple or program an unmodified transponder chip or fob (or clone the key, if possible). They will then test the remote to confirm that it works.
When reprogramming blank keys it is crucial to be careful. The process can be complicated and each manufacturer offers different instructions. It is also possible to miss a step, or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, therefore it is recommended to work with an expert with a thorough understanding of your car's security system to minimize the risk of damaging the car. Certain programming tools also have the capability of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which could help repair or troubleshoot further issues.