Are you looking to replace the worn-out case of your 2013 Audi A6 Key Fob or perhaps change the battery? Many Audi A6 owners find themselves needing to open their key fobs for these common maintenance tasks. While it might seem daunting, dismantling your Audi A6 key fob is a straightforward process you can do at home with the right tools and a little patience. This guide will walk you through the steps to safely open your 2013 Audi A6 key fob, helping you save time and money on dealership service fees.
Opening your Audi A6 key fob is often necessary when the plastic casing becomes damaged or when the battery needs replacing. Instead of immediately seeking professional help, understanding how to disassemble your key fob can empower you to handle these minor repairs yourself. This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide to dismantling your 2013 Audi A6 key fob, ensuring you can confidently tackle this task.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. For a 2013 Audi A6 key fob, you will typically need:
- Torx Screwdrivers: Specifically, a T6 and a T8 Torx screwdriver. These are star-shaped screwdrivers that fit the small screws commonly used in key fobs. Having both sizes on hand ensures you’re prepared for the different screw sizes you might encounter.
- Small Phillips Head Screwdriver: Some replacement cases might use Phillips head screws, so it’s good to have a small Phillips head screwdriver available just in case.
- Plastic Pry Tool or Small Flathead Screwdriver (Optional): A plastic pry tool is ideal for gently separating the key fob casing without causing damage. If you don’t have one, a small, flathead screwdriver can be used with extreme caution.
- New Key Fob Case (if replacing): If you’re replacing your key fob case, ensure you have the correct replacement case for your 2013 Audi A6 key fob. These are readily available online from various retailers.
Step-by-Step Dismantling Process
Now, let’s get into the actual dismantling process for your 2013 Audi A6 key fob. Follow these steps carefully:
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Remove the Battery Cover: Locate the battery cover on the back of your key fob. There is usually a small indentation or release catch. Use your fingernail or a small flat tool to gently pry open and remove the battery cover.
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Identify the Screws: Once the battery cover is removed, you will see the internal components and the screws holding the key fob casing together. For the 2013 Audi A6 key fob, you’ll typically find three screws. As mentioned in the original forum, there are usually two smaller screws at the bottom portion of the key fob and one slightly larger screw at the top.
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Determine Screw Type and Size: Examine the screws closely. They are Torx screws, requiring a star-shaped screwdriver. Based on user feedback and common Audi key fob designs, you will likely need a T6 Torx screwdriver for the smaller screws and a T8 Torx screwdriver for the slightly larger one.
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Unscrew the Key Fob: Using the correct size Torx screwdrivers, carefully unscrew all three screws. Place the screws in a safe place to avoid losing them, as they are quite small.
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Separate the Key Fob Casing: After removing the screws, the key fob casing should now be in two parts. If the casing doesn’t separate easily, use a plastic pry tool or a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry along the seam of the key fob. Work your way around the edges, applying gentle pressure until the two halves separate. Be careful not to force it, as there might be clips or internal components that could be damaged.
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Handle Internal Components with Care: Once the casing is open, you’ll see the internal circuit board, battery compartment, and importantly, the immobilizer chip. The immobilizer chip is crucial for your car to start. As NHN rightly pointed out in the forum, this chip is often glued in place. Handle this component with extreme care. Avoid touching the electronic components unnecessarily and especially avoid any rough handling of the immobilizer chip.
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Replacing the Case or Battery: If you are replacing the key fob case, carefully transfer the internal components, including the circuit board and immobilizer chip, to the new case. If you are replacing the battery, simply remove the old battery and insert the new one, ensuring correct polarity.
Reassembly
Once you have completed your task, reassemble your 2013 Audi A6 key fob by reversing the dismantling steps.
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Place Internal Components: Carefully place the internal components back into the new case (if replacing) or the original case. Ensure everything is seated correctly.
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Close the Casing: Align the two halves of the key fob casing and gently press them together until they snap closed.
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Re-insert Screws: Replace the Torx screws, tightening them gently but firmly. Avoid over-tightening, which could damage the plastic casing.
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Replace Battery Cover: Finally, snap the battery cover back into place.
Important Considerations
- Immobilizer Chip: As highlighted, the immobilizer chip is vital. Damage to this chip can be costly, potentially requiring a new key and reprogramming at the dealership. Be extremely cautious when handling this component.
- Static Electricity: Electronic components are sensitive to static electricity. Ground yourself before handling the internal parts of the key fob to prevent static discharge.
- Screw Sizes: While T6 and T8 Torx screwdrivers are commonly needed, it’s always best to visually confirm the screw types and sizes before applying force.
- Replacement Case Quality: If replacing the case, opt for a good quality replacement case to ensure durability and proper fit. As MarkTM pointed out, eBay can be a source for these cases.
Conclusion
Dismantling your 2013 Audi A6 key fob for case replacement or battery change is a manageable DIY task. By using the correct tools, following these steps carefully, and paying particular attention to the immobilizer chip, you can successfully disassemble and reassemble your key fob. This guide aims to provide you with the confidence to perform this maintenance yourself, saving you time and potentially costly service fees. Remember to always handle electronic components with care and double-check compatibility when ordering replacement parts for your 2013 Audi A6 key fob.
