How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs boast an impressive battery life, they do eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as easy as changing the batteries, but sometimes there are more serious problems.
A quick fix that can aid is to disassemble the remote by cleaning the buttons and stretching them out and in. These steps could be all that you require to get your key fob working again.
Battery
Car key remotes are powered by CR2025 or CR2032 batteries and they can be replaced when the fob is functioning. If not, you can open the fob and examine the buttons and battery terminals for any signs of looseness or broken parts. Most of the time, the buttons and terminals can be re-soldered back into place, but you'll need to know exactly what kind of battery your fob uses.
If car remote key repair isn't the problem you can try an alternative key fob and see if you can start or unlock your vehicle with it. If it's possible, it's time to replace your primary fob. If not, a professional inspection is required to determine why it's not working properly. It could be as simple as reprogramming, or it could require different types of repairs. There's also the possibility that your vehicle has forgotten your fob that you can fix yourself.
Case
The case of remote keys is the plastic housing that covers the outside and typically comes with a replacement button pad. It is recommended to purchase the latest case because the one you have will likely to be extremely dirty. It is crucial that the circuit board within the case is properly positioned. The circuit board is what controls the key fob's function. You can test it by using a multimeter 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 have been damaged. Soldering them back into place can often restore them to full function, in the event that they break completely.
Buttons
IF your key fob buttons don't work anymore or are difficult to press for any reason, a motormite or dorman key housing replacement for your remote can be bought inexpensively online for your year/make and model. Then, pop the circuit board out of the 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 the buttons can be bonded to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob is linked with the receiver of your vehicle and this connection can be corrupted. A professional will assess the car to determine the manufacturer, year, year and model and employ specialist equipment to re-pair or program a blank fob or transponder chip (or make a key replica if this is possible). Then, they test the remote to be sure that it works.
It is crucial to be careful when reprogramming an unprogrammed key, since the process can be complicated and different manufacturers require certain steps that are slightly different. It is also possible to miss a step, or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, therefore it is best to use an expert with a thorough understanding of the security system of your vehicle to avoid harming the car. Some key programming tools can also be capable of analyzing diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle. This can help repair or troubleshoot additional problems.