20 Fun Infographics About Key Repair
How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs have excellent battery life, they'll eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as simple as replacing the batteries, but occasionally there are more serious problems.
Take the remote apart and clean the buttons. Then move them out and in. These steps could be all you require to get your key fob back in working order.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, and they can often be swapped out in the event that the device is functioning. If it's not then you can remove the fob and check the battery terminals and buttons for any signs of looseness or broken parts. You can usually connect the terminals and buttons back into place. However, you'll need to know what type of battery is installed in the fob.
If you're unsure whether the battery is the problem then use a backup fob to start or unlock your car. If you are able to do so, it's time to replace your primary fob. If it's not, a professional inspection is needed to figure out why it's not working properly. It could be as easy as reprogramming, or it could require other types of repair. car key immobiliser repair might also discover that your vehicle has lost the fob. This is not something you can do on your own.
Case
The outer plastic enclosure of a remote is called the case. It typically comes with an alternative button pad. It is important to use an entirely new case since the original will probably be quite dirty and it is crucial that the circuit board is set correctly inside the case. The circuit board is responsible for controlling the function of the key fob. You can test it using an instrument set to RF (radiofrequency) mode, and a radio scanner that is tuned to the same frequency as the key fob.
Examine the contact points of the buttons on the keypad. They may be loose over time, or even broken. By carefully re-soldering them back into their original position can usually restore the functionality of the keypad unless they break completely.
Buttons
If the buttons on your key fob aren't working anymore or are difficult to push, you can buy a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing on the internet at a the lowest cost for the model/year/make. Then, you can slide the circuit board out of your old case into the new one. For certain models you may have to move the board slightly. You can then apply aluminum foil and double-sided tape to stick to the black contact points on the buttons.
Programming
The key fob is linked with the receiver in your vehicle and this connection can become corrupted. A professional will inspect your vehicle to determine its year, make, and model. They will then use special equipment to reconnect or program an unmodified transponder chip or fob (or duplicate the key if possible). They will then test the remote to ensure that it functions.
It is important to be careful when reprogramming an unprogrammed key, since the process can be complicated and different brands require slightly different steps. It is easy to miss a crucial step or wait too long to exit the programming mode. To avoid the risk of damaging your car it is recommended to employ an expert with extensive knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Some key programming tools can also read diagnostic trouble codes in your vehicle. This can help you solve other issues.