20 Resources That Will Make You More Efficient With Key Repair
How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs come with impressive battery life, they will eventually degrade. Some times it is as simple as changing the batteries in the device, however sometimes the problem can be more serious.
Remove the remote from the unit and clean the buttons. Then move them in and out. These steps could be all that you need to get your key fob working properly.
Battery
If the fob is still functioning you can replace the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If not, you can open the fob and check the buttons and battery terminals to look for signs of wear or damaged parts. Most of the time, the buttons and terminals can be repaired by soldering them back into place, but you'll need to be aware of the kind of battery the fob is using.
If you're unsure whether the battery is at fault then utilize a backup fob in order to unlock or start your vehicle. If it's possible do so, it's probably time to replace the primary fob. If it's not, you will require a professional to examine it to find the issue. It could be as easy as reprogramming it, or require other repairs. There's also the possibility that your car has forgotten your fob that you can fix on your own.
Case
The case of a remote key is the plastic housing that covers the outside and typically comes with the replacement button pad. It is crucial to get a new case as the original will probably be quite dirty and it is crucial that the circuit board is installed correctly inside the case. The circuit board is responsible for the function of the key fob and can be tested with a normal multimeter by setting it to RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a radio scanner tuned to the same frequency the key fob uses next to it, watching for signals that pulsate upon pressing the button.
Check the contact points of the buttons on the keypad. They may be loose over time or have been damaged. A careful soldering process to put them back in their original position can usually restore them to full functionality unless they break completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons are no longer working or are difficult to push, you can purchase a new dorman or motormite remote key housing online for the lowest cost for the model/year/make. Then, you can take the circuit board from your old case and put it into the new one. In some cases you may have to adjust the position of the board slightly. The black contact points of buttons can be adhered to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is connected with the receiver of your vehicle and this connection could be damaged. A professional will assess your car to determine its year, make, and model. They will then employ specialist equipment to reconnect or program the transponder chip with a blank fob (or copy the key if that is possible). Then they test the remote to be sure that it works.
When reprogramming keys that are blank it is crucial to take care. remote key repairs is complicated and each manufacturer comes with slightly different instructions. It is easy to miss a crucial step or to take too long before exiting the programming mode. To minimize the risk of damaging your vehicle it is recommended to work with an expert who has vast knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Certain key programming tools are also capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which could assist in fixing or resolving any further issues.