What's Holding Back The Key Repair Industry?
How to Repair a Remote Key
Even though most remote key fobs boast impressive battery life, they will eventually degrade. Sometimes it's as simple as replacing the batteries, however sometimes there are more serious issues.
A quick fix that can help is dismantling the remote, cleaning the buttons and moving them in and out. These steps could be all you need to get the key fob to work.
Battery
Car key remotes use CR2025 or CR2032 batteries, and they can often be replaced if the fob is still functioning. If it's not, you can open the fob and check the battery terminals and buttons for any indication of looseness or broken parts. Often the terminals and buttons can be soldered back in place however you'll need know exactly what kind of battery your fob uses.
If the battery isn't the problem Try using an alternate key fob to determine if you can unlock or start your vehicle using it. If it's possible, it's probably time to replace your primary fob. If not, a professional check is required to determine why it's not working correctly. It could be as simple as reconfiguration, or it may require other types repair. You might also discover that your car has lost the fob. This isn't something you can do by yourself.
Case Study
The case of a remote key is the plastic housing that covers the outside and typically comes with the button pad that is replaced. It is essential to choose a new case, as the original one is likely to be a bit shabby and it is crucial that the circuit board is placed properly in the case. The circuit board is responsible for controlling the function of the key fob. You can test it with a multimeter set to RF (radiofrequency) mode and a radio scanner that is tuned to the same frequency as the key fob.
Check the contact points on the buttons on the keypad. They could have become loose over time or broken. Soldering them back to their original position can often restore them to their original function, unless they snap completely.
Buttons
IF your key fob buttons don't work anymore or are difficult to press for any reason, a motormite or dorman remote key housing replacement can be bought inexpensively online for the year/make/model you have. Then pop the circuit board from your old case into the new one. For broken car key repair may have to adjust the board's position slightly. The black contact points of the buttons can be bonded to with aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is linked with the receiver inside your vehicle, and this connection can become corrupted. A professional will examine your vehicle to determine its make, year and model. They will then use specialist equipment to recouple or program a blank transponder chip or fob (or duplicate the key if that is possible). Then car key repair shop near me will test the remote to be sure it functions.
When programming blank keys, it is important to take care. The process can be complex and each manufacturer has slightly different instructions. It is also easy to skip a step or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, therefore it is recommended to hire an expert with a thorough understanding of the security system of your vehicle to avoid damaging the car. Some key programming tools are also capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle. This can aid in repairing or resolving other issues.