Five Things Everybody Does Wrong Regarding Key Repair
How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs have impressive battery life, they will eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as easy as changing the batteries, but occasionally there are more serious issues.
Take apart the remote and clean the buttons. Then move them out and in. These methods could be all you need to get your key fob to work.
Battery
If the fob is still working it is possible to swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If not, inspect the battery terminals or buttons to determine if there are any parts that are loose. You can usually connect the terminals and buttons back in place. However, visit the website 'll have to know the kind of battery is being used in your fob.
If you're not sure if the battery is the issue you can try a backup key fob and see whether you are able to unlock or start your vehicle with it. If you can do so, it's probably time to replace your primary fob. If not, a professional check is necessary to determine the reason it's not working properly. It could be as easy as reprogramming it, or require other repairs. There's also the possibility that your car has lost your fob, which isn't something you can fix on your own.
Case Study
The outer plastic housing of a remote is known as the case. It typically comes with an alternative button pad. It is recommended to purchase a brand new case, as the original is likely to be very filthy. Additionally, it is vital that the circuit board inside the case is correctly placed. The circuit board is the main component of the key fob and can be tested using a normal multimeter by setting it to the RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a scanner tuned to the frequency the key fob is using next to it, watching for signals that pulsate upon pressing the button.
Check the contact points on the keys on the keypad. They may have become loose over time or broken. Carefully soldering them back in place will often restore the functionality of the keypad unless they break completely.
Buttons
If the buttons on your key fob no longer work or are difficult to press for any reason, a motormite or dorman remote key housing replacement could be purchased for a low price online for the year/make/model you have. Then, take the circuit board out of the old case and insert it into the new one. You may need to alter the position of the board on some models. The black contact points of the buttons can be adhered to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is linked with the receiver of your vehicle. This connection can become corrupted. A professional will inspect the car to determine the manufacturer, year of the vehicle, year of manufacture and model. They employ specialist equipment to re-pair or program an empty fob or transponder chip (or make a key replica should this be possible). Then they will test the remote to be sure that it works.
When reprogramming keys that are blank, it is important to take care. The process can be complicated and each manufacturer offers different instructions. It is also possible to skip a step or take too long to exit the programming mode, which is why it is recommended to hire professionals with extensive knowledge of your car's security system to avoid damaging your car. Some key programming tools can also read diagnostic trouble codes in your vehicle. This can help you fix or resolve other issues.