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How to Repair a Remote Key

Although most remote key fobs come with impressive battery life, they do eventually get worn out. Sometimes it's as easy as changing the batteries, but occasionally there are more serious problems.

Remove the remote from the unit and clean the buttons. Then, flex them in and out. These methods could be all you need to get your key fob working.


Battery

Car key remotes use CR2025 or CR2032 batteries and they can be swapped out in the event that the device is functional. If it's not accessible, you can take it off the fob and examine the battery terminals and buttons for any signs of looseness or broken parts. The terminals and buttons can be re-soldered back into place, but you'll need to know exactly what type of battery your fob uses.

If the battery isn't the problem, try using an alternate key fob to see whether you can unlock or start your car using it. If it's possible, it's time for a replacement of the primary fob. If it's not, you will require a professional to examine it to find the problem. It could be a simple reconfiguration, or it may require other types repair. TheKeyLab may also find that your car has lost the fob. This is not something you can do on your own.

Case

The outer plastic housing of a remote is referred to as the case. It is usually equipped with a replacement button pad. It is important to use a new case as the original one is likely to be quite dirty and it is vital that the circuit board is set properly in the case. The circuit board is what determines 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.

Examine the contact points of the keys on the keypad. They could be loose over time, or even broken. Carefully soldering them back in place will often restore them to full functionality unless they snap off completely.

Buttons

IF your key fob buttons don't work anymore or are difficult to press, a dorman or motormite remote key housing replacement could be bought inexpensively online for the year/make/model you have. Then, pop the circuit board out of your old case and into the new one. In some cases it may be necessary to move the board slightly. The black contact points of the buttons can be bonded to using aluminum foil and double-sided tape.

Programming

The key fob is connected with the receiver inside your vehicle. This connection can be corrupted. A professional will assess your car to determine its year, make and model. They'll then use specialist equipment to recouple or program an unmodified transponder chip or fob (or copy the key if that is possible). Then they test the remote to be sure it functions.

When reprogramming blank keys it is essential to be careful. The process can be complicated and each manufacturer comes with different instructions. It is easy to miss a crucial step or wait too long before exiting the programming mode. To reduce the chance of damaging your car, it is best to hire an expert with extensive knowledge of the security system in your vehicle. Certain key programming tools can also be capable of reading diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle. This can aid in repairing or resolving further issues.

Member since: Tuesday, October 1, 2024

https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/carkeyrepair/

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