Is your 2010 Camaro key fob looking worn out, or are the buttons becoming unresponsive? You might think you need to spend a fortune on a new key and dealer programming. However, often the issue is just the outer shell. Replacing the 2010 Camaro Key Fob Shell is a simple DIY task that can save you money and hassle. This guide will walk you through disassembling and reassembling your key fob, so you can refresh its look and functionality without replacing the expensive internal components.
Disassembling Your Camaro Key Fob
Before you begin, you’ll only need a small flathead screwdriver. Work on a clean, flat surface to keep track of all the small parts.
Step 1: Removing the Battery Cover
Start by opening the key blade into the “out” position. Locate the battery cover on the back of the fob. Place your thumb in the space where the key sits when folded and gently pop the battery cover off. Remove the battery and set it aside.
Step 2: Prying Open the Shell
With the battery removed, carefully insert your small flathead screwdriver into the seam on the top side of the key fob, near the keyring loop. Gently pry to start separating the two halves of the shell.
Step 3: Separating the Front and Back Faces
Continue prying along the seam, working your way around the key fob. Pay extra attention to the side opposite the keyring, near the metal ring holder. Pry slowly and carefully to ease the two halves apart. You might be able to hold the plastic part and push against the metal keyring loop to help separate them. Be prepared, as the front face might spin slightly due to the spring mechanism inside once it’s free.
Step 4: Removing the Key and Chip
Once the front face is separated, you can carefully remove the key blade and the internal chip. Note the orientation of the chip as you remove it, this will be important for reassembly.
Reassembling Your Camaro Key Fob
Reassembly might seem tricky because of the spring mechanism, but it’s straightforward if you follow these steps.
Step 1: Preparing for Reassembly
If the push button separated from the key blade during disassembly, reattach it. Place the chip back into its designated spot in the front face of the shell, ensuring it’s facing down in the correct orientation. Position the key blade in its “out” or open position within the front shell.
Step 2: Reinstalling the Spring
Now, place the spring back into the push button area. It should seat securely into a locked position. This spring is what gives the flip key its action.
Step 3: Closing the Shell
Carefully align the back face of the shell with the front face, ensuring the small “foot” of the spring is correctly positioned in its corresponding slot on the back face.
Hold the key fob as shown in the image below, and rotate the back face counterclockwise. This action will apply tension to the spring, allowing the key to flip out. Rotate the back face approximately two full revolutions counterclockwise.
Once rotated, firmly snap the back face onto the front face. You should hear a click as the two halves lock together. Apply firm pressure around the edges to ensure a secure closure. Reinstall the battery and battery cover.
Save Money by Replacing Just the Shell
By following these steps, you’ve successfully disassembled and reassembled your 2010 Camaro key fob shell. This process can often resolve issues like loose shells or buttons that don’t press correctly. If your shell is damaged beyond repair, you can purchase a replacement 2010 Camaro key fob shell online and simply transfer your existing internals, avoiding the expense of a new key cutting and programming.
You can find replacement shells at online retailers. Here are a few resources for uncut, unprogrammed key fob shells:
Replacing your 2010 Camaro key fob shell is a quick and easy way to refresh your key fob and potentially fix common issues, all while saving significant money compared to full key replacement.
