20 Resources That'll Make You More Efficient With Key Repair
How to Repair a Remote Key
Although many remote key fobs boast amazing battery lifespan, they eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as easy as changing the batteries, but sometimes there are more serious issues.
repair car keys that may aid is to disassemble the remote and cleaning the buttons before flexing them in and out. These techniques might be all you need to get your key fob to work.
Battery
If the fob is functioning, you can swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If not, you can open the fob and check the battery terminals and buttons for any signs of looseness or damaged parts. The terminals and buttons can be re-soldered back into place, but you'll need to know exactly what kind of battery the fob is using.
If the battery isn't the problem, try using an alternative key fob to determine whether you can unlock or start your car using it. If it's possible, it's time to replace the primary fob. If not, a professional inspection is needed to figure out why it's not functioning properly. It could be as simple as reprogramming, or it could require other types repair. There's also the possibility that your vehicle has lost your fob and isn't something you can fix on your own.
Case
The plastic housing that covers the outside of a remote is called the case. It usually comes with a replacement button pad. It is best to use an entirely new case as the original case is likely to be quite filthy. It is crucial that the circuit board inside the case is properly positioned. The circuit board controls the key fob's function. You can test it with an instrument set to RF (radiofrequency) mode and a radio scanner that is tuned to the same frequency as the key fob.
Another thing to look at is the button contact points on the keypad. They may have become damaged or loose in the course of time. Carefully soldering them back in their original position can usually restore them to full functionality unless they completely snap off.
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, you can take the circuit board out of the old case and insert it into the new one. In some cases you may have to adjust the position of the board slightly. The black contact points of the buttons can be adhered to aluminum foil using double-sided tape.
Programming
The key fob and the receiver in your car are paired however this connection could be ruined. A professional will examine the car to determine the make model, year and model. They will make use of specialist equipment to repair or program an empty fob or transponder chip (or make a key replica should this be possible). Then they test the remote to make sure that it works.
It is essential to be careful when reprogramming the blank key, because the process can be a bit complicated and different manufacturers have distinct steps. It is also possible to miss a step or delay too long before leaving the programming mode, therefore it is recommended to hire a professional with comprehensive knowledge of the security system of your vehicle to reduce the chance of damaging your car. Certain key programming tools are also capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle. This can help repair or troubleshoot further problems.