How to Repair a Remote Key
While most remote key fobs are equipped with excellent battery life, they'll eventually get worn out. Some times it is simple to replace the batteries in the device but sometimes the problem can be more serious.
One quick fix that may aid is to disassemble the remote, cleaning the buttons and flexing them in and out. These techniques might be all you need to get the key fob to work.
Battery
Car key remotes use CR2025 or CR2032 batteries and can usually be swapped out if the fob is still functioning. If not accessible, you can take it off the fob and inspect the buttons and battery terminals to look for signs of wear or broken parts. Often the terminals and buttons can be soldered back in place but you'll need be aware of the type of battery your fob uses.
If you're not sure whether the battery is the problem you can make use of a backup fob to unlock or start your vehicle. If it's possible do so, it's probably time to replace the primary fob. If not, a professional check is required to determine why it's not working correctly. It could be as easy as reprogramming it, or require other types of repair. There's also the possibility that your car has forgotten your fob and isn't something you can fix on your own.
Case Study
The outer plastic enclosure of a remote is referred to as the case. It usually comes with a replacement button pad. It is best to use an entirely new case because the one you have will likely to be extremely filthy. Also, it is essential that the circuit board inside the case is properly positioned. The circuit board is the main component of the key fob. It can be tested using a normal multimeter by setting it to the RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a scanner tuned to the same frequency the key fob uses next to it, watching for pulsing signals upon pressing the button.
Examine the contact points of the buttons on the keypad. They could have become loose over time, or even broken. Soldering them back to their original position will often allow them to return to full functionality, in the event that they snap completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons aren't working anymore or are difficult to push, you can purchase a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing online for an affordable price for your model/year/make. Then, simply pop the circuit board from your old case into the new one. In some cases you may have to move the board slightly. car key fob repair can then use aluminum foil with 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. A professional will examine the car to determine the manufacturer, year of the vehicle, year of manufacture and model. They use specialist equipment to re-pair or program a blank fob or transponder chip (or duplicate a key if this is possible). They will then test the remote to confirm that it works.
It is important to be careful when reprogramming the blank key, because the process is often complicated and different manufacturers require slightly different steps. It is also easy to skip a step or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, therefore it is recommended to hire a professional with comprehensive knowledge of your car's security system to minimize the risk of damaging the car. Certain programming tools can also be capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which can aid in repairing or resolving additional issues.