How to Repair car key fob repair
While the majority of remote key fobs have excellent battery life, they'll eventually run out of battery. Some times it is simple to replace the batteries inside the device, but in other cases the issue could be more serious.
Take the remote apart and clean the buttons. Then, flex them out and in. These methods could be all you need to get your key fob back in working order.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries and can usually be swapped out in the event that the device is functioning. If it's not accessible, you can take it off the fob and examine the batteries' terminals and buttons to look for signs of wear or broken parts. It is usually possible to connect the terminals and buttons back into their original positions. However, you'll be required to know which type of battery is installed in your fob.
If you're not sure if the battery is the problem you can use a backup fob to unlock or start your car. If it's possible, it's time to replace your primary fob. If it's not, a professional inspection is necessary to determine the reason it's not functioning properly. 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 yourself.
Case
The outer plastic enclosure of a remote is called the case. It usually comes with a replacement button pad. It is recommended to purchase the latest case because the one you have will likely to be extremely filthy. Also, it is essential that the circuit board in the case is placed correctly. The circuit board is responsible for the operation of the key fob and is tested using a standard multimeter by setting it to RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a radio scanner tuned to the frequency the key fob operates on next to it, listening for pulsing signals upon button presses.
Examine the contact points of the buttons on the keypad. They may be loose over time or have been damaged. Soldering them back to their original position can often restore them to their original functionality, unless they break completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons do not function anymore 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, pop the circuit board out of your old case and put it into the new one. It is possible to adjust the position of your circuit board for certain models. The black contact points of buttons can be adhered to aluminum foil using double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is connected with the receiver in your vehicle and this connection can become corrupted. A professional will examine the car to determine the make, year and model and make use of specialist equipment to repair or program an empty fob or transponder chip (or clone a key in the event that it is possible). They will then test the remote to confirm that it functions.
When reprogramming keys that are blank it is essential to be careful. The process is complicated and each manufacturer offers slightly different instructions. It is also possible to miss a step or wait too long before exiting the programming mode, therefore it is recommended to work with a professional with comprehensive knowledge of your car's security system to avoid harming the car. Certain key programming tools also have the capability of analyzing diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which could aid in repairing or resolving further issues.