How to Repair a Remote Key
Although most remote key fobs come with amazing battery lives, they will eventually wear out. Sometimes it's as simple as changing the batteries in the device, however sometimes the issue could be more serious.
Remove the remote from the unit and clean the buttons. Then bend them out and in. car keys repair could be all you need to get the key fob to work.
Battery
If the fob continues to functioning it is possible to swap out the CR2025 or CR2032 battery. If not, inspect the battery terminals or buttons to see if there are any missing parts. You can usually connect the terminals and buttons back into their original positions. However, you will be required to know which kind of battery is being used in your fob.
If you're unsure if the battery is the problem, make use of a backup fob to unlock or start your vehicle. If you can, then it's time for a replacement of the primary fob. If it's not, a professional inspection is required to determine why it's not functioning properly. It could be as simple as reset, or it could require other types of repair. There's also the possibility that your car has lost your fob and isn't something you can fix yourself.
Case
The case of remote keys is the outer plastic housing and typically comes with a button pad that is replaced. It is crucial to get a new case as the original will probably be a bit shabby and it is vital that the circuit board is set correctly inside the case. The circuit board is responsible for the operation of the key fob. It is tested using a normal multimeter by setting it to the RF (radio frequency) mode and holding a radio scanner tuned to the frequency the key fob operates on next to it, watching for pulsing signals upon the button's presses.
Check the contact points of the buttons on the keypad. They could be loose over time or broken. Soldering them back in place will often allow them to return to their original function, unless they snap completely.
Buttons
If your key fob buttons aren't working anymore or are difficult to push, you can buy a replacement dorman or Motormite remote key housing online at a low cost for your model/year/make. Then, you can slide the circuit board from your old case into the new one. You may need to alter the position of the board on some models. Then, you can use aluminum foil using double-sided tape to stick to the black contact points on the buttons.
Programming
The key fob and receiver in your car are paired however this connection could be damaged. A professional will assess the car to determine the make, year and model and make use of specialist equipment to repair or program the fob with a blank transponder chip (or duplicate a key if this is possible). Then they will test the remote to be sure it functions.
It is important to be careful when reprogramming an unprogrammed key, since the process can be a bit complicated and different manufacturers have distinct steps. It is easy to miss a crucial step or to take too long before exiting the programming mode. To minimize the risk of causing damage to your vehicle it is recommended to employ an expert who has vast knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Some key programming tools also have the capability of analyzing diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle, which could help repair or troubleshoot further problems.