Omar Khalid
Plastic key fobs are a convenient way to lock and unlock your car doors, but they can be frustrating when they break. Luckily, there are several ways to open and fix a plastic key fob. This paragraph will discuss some of the most common methods for opening and repairing plastic key fobs, including using a knife or screwdriver to pry the fob open, transferring the inner workings to a new case, and using epoxy or glue to repair cracks.
Characteristics and Values Table for Opening Plastic Key Fobs
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Small Phillips head screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, knife, butter knife, putty knife, coin, paper clip, pliers, hair dryer |
| Steps | Unscrew the back of the key fob, separate the two halves of the case, remove the circuit board, replace the battery, close the fob, secure the screw |
| Tips | Be careful not to damage the circuit board, do not use epoxy or super glue as it can ruin the board, clean the surface before applying epoxy, use a new case if the old one is cracked |
| Cost | $3-10 for a new key, $30 for a new shell, $60 for a flat key |
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What You'll Learn
Using a knife or screwdriver
Step 1: Identify the Access Point
Locate the small notch or seam on the side of the key fob, which is designed to be the access point for splitting the casing. Some key fobs might have a screw that holds the two halves together, so check for that as well.
Step 2: Choose the Right Tool
A flathead screwdriver or a small knife can be used to pry open the key fob. If you are concerned about scratching or damaging the exterior, consider using a plastic opening tool or a guitar pick instead. These tools are designed to be gentle on electronic devices.
Step 3: Apply Gentle Pressure
Insert the chosen tool into the notch or seam and apply gentle pressure to create a small gap between the two halves of the key fob. Be cautious not to use too much force, as it could damage the plastic casing or internal components.
Step 4: Work Your Way Around
Once you have a slight separation, work your way around the key fob, prying open the two halves. Make sure to apply even pressure to avoid cracking or damaging the plastic casing. Continue this process until the fob splits into two pieces.
Step 5: Access Internal Components
Inside the key fob, you will find the battery and other internal components. If you need to replace the battery, note its orientation, usually marked by a '+' symbol on one side. This orientation is crucial for proper installation of the new battery.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
After making the necessary changes or repairs, align the two halves of the key fob back together. Press or snap them firmly until they securely clip into place. Test the key fob to ensure it is functioning properly.
It is important to note that using a knife or screwdriver carries a risk of damaging the key fob. Always exercise caution and patience when performing this procedure.
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Wiggling, bending and prying
Firstly, locate the small notch or seam on the side of the fob. This is usually designed for prying the fob open. Using a flathead screwdriver, carefully insert its tip into the seam at one end of the fob. Apply gentle pressure and twist the screwdriver to create a gap. Work around the fob, moving the screwdriver along the seam while continuing to twist gently to gradually open the fob. Avoid using excessive force as this can crack or break the plastic casing.
If you encounter resistance, do not force the fob open. Instead, try wiggling and bending the fob to help loosen the two halves. You can also use a plastic prying tool, a small knife, or a coin to carefully pry the fob apart. A plastic prying tool is a safer option as it can fit easily into tight spaces and reduces the risk of harm to the internal mechanisms.
Once the two halves of the case are apart, you will see the circuit board inside. Remove the old battery, taking note of its orientation as the positive and negative sides must match the new battery. Reassemble the key fob by pressing the two halves together until they click.
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Using a flathead screwdriver or coin
To open a plastic key fob using a flathead screwdriver or coin, you'll need to locate the seam or notch that runs along the edge of the fob. This seam typically divides the two halves of the casing. Insert the tip of the flathead screwdriver or coin gently into the seam and apply slight pressure to create a gap. If you're using a coin, a sturdy one such as a quarter or a similar-sized currency is best.
Once a small gap is formed, carefully twist the screwdriver or coin to pop the two halves apart. Work your way around the seam, continuing to turn and twist to fully separate the halves. Be mindful not to apply excessive force, as this can damage the plastic casing or internal components.
If your key fob is sealed with adhesive, making it challenging to open, you can apply gentle heat to soften the adhesive. Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting and direct the airflow around the edges of the key fob for about 30 seconds. Once the adhesive softens, proceed with using the flathead screwdriver or coin to open the fob.
If your key fob is stuck due to dirt, debris, or a tight fit, try the tapping method. Lightly tap the edges of the fob against a soft surface, such as a folded towel or rubber mat. This action can loosen the casing, making it easier to open. Once loosened, use the flathead screwdriver or coin to separate the halves.
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Applying epoxy
While some sources suggest using epoxy to repair a broken plastic key fob, others advise against it, as it can ruin the board and you'll never be able to remove it.
If you do choose to use epoxy, here is a step-by-step guide:
Preparing the Key Fob:
Before applying the epoxy, it is important to prepare the key fob properly. Use a utility knife or a Dremel tool to cut away any excess plastic and create a smooth surface. Ensure that the area is clean and free of any grease or debris, as this will help the epoxy bond better.
Mixing the Epoxy:
For the repair, you will need a two-part epoxy, such as JB Weld, which specifically caters to plastic. Mix equal amounts of the epoxy resin and the hardener on a disposable surface, such as an old cereal box, using a Popsicle stick. Make sure to mix them thoroughly until you achieve a consistent colour and texture.
Applying the Epoxy:
Once the epoxy is mixed, use it to coat the desired area of the key fob. You can apply it to the key attachment legs and then position the attachment onto the key fob, layering more epoxy as needed. Be generous with the epoxy to ensure a strong bond.
Curing and Finishing:
After applying the epoxy, allow ample time for it to cure. You can let it sit for an hour, or even overnight, in a warm place. Once cured, test the strength of the bond by gently wiggling any repaired components. If you're satisfied with the strength, you can proceed to reassemble the key fob by following the disassembly instructions in reverse.
It is important to note that while epoxy can provide a temporary solution, it may not be as durable or long-lasting as a professional repair or replacement.
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Replacing the plastic fob case
If your key fob is cracked, you can replace the plastic fob case by moving the inner workings to a new one. Some are just covers that can be placed over the existing fob. You can find these online on sites like eBay or Amazon, or at your local hardware store or locksmith.
Before purchasing a new case, it is important to open up the fob without breaking the circuit board inside or the transponder chip. You should also be careful not to damage the new case. Do not use a lever or knife to pry the case apart, as this can tear up the plastic. Instead, try to wiggle, bend, and pry the two halves apart. You can also try heating the fob with a hairdryer to make the plastic more pliable. Once the two halves are separated, you can insert a finger into the battery compartment to remove the circuit board.
After removing the circuit board, you may see a white plastic retainer holding the transponder in place. You can then transfer the key blade, the fob, and the black box surrounded by plastic, which contains the chip. To remove the chip, use a utility knife to cut away the box, rather than trying to pry it out.
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Frequently asked questions
If your key fob has a screw, use a small Phillips head screwdriver to rotate the screw counterclockwise and remove it. If there is a small indentation along the side, push a coin or flathead screwdriver inside and twist to separate the halves. If there is no indentation, push your screwdriver into the seam and pry the halves apart.
You can try to transfer the key blade, the fob, and the black box surrounded by plastic to a new shell. Use a utility knife to cut away the box holding the chip, rather than trying to pry it out.
Regular epoxy or plastic epoxy may run or be too weak. Steel epoxy putty is recommended for its strength and ability to stay in place. JB weld putty is also suggested as a good option.
You can try using electrical tape to tape a small piece of hanger iron to the fob.
