Is your car key fob looking worn out, cracked, or simply tired? Before you rush to a dealership and spend a fortune on a brand new key, consider a cost-effective and satisfying DIY solution: Replacement Key Fob Cases. Many car owners experience the frustration of a perfectly functional key fob with a damaged or unsightly exterior. The good news is that often, the internal electronics are perfectly fine, and all you need is a fresh, new case. This guide will walk you through the process, inspired by a real-world experience, and provide you with the insights to tackle this repair yourself.
One car owner recently shared their journey of replacing their key fob case, highlighting both the straightforward aspects and the minor hurdles that can arise. The first step, and perhaps the most delicate, is accessing the circuit board within your existing key fob. These boards are typically secured within the case, sometimes with small plastic pegs. In the original experience, one such peg proved stubborn. The user had to carefully remove the head of the peg to release the board. While a specialized tool like a Dremel cut-off wheel could be useful, a sharp knife can also do the job with caution. Patience is key here. Gently wiggle and pull to separate the circuit board from the old, damaged case.
Once you have the circuit board free, the next step is to install it into your replacement key fob case. This is usually a simple process, but as discovered, minor discrepancies can occur. In this instance, the mounting hole in the new case was slightly too small for the original peg on the circuit board. A small drill bit can easily remedy this, carefully widening the hole just enough for a proper fit. After ensuring the circuit board sits correctly in the new case, you can install the battery and close the case up.
However, a crucial point to note is key compatibility. The user found that their original key blade would lock into the new case but couldn’t be easily removed due to a slightly different latch design. This highlights the importance of checking if your original key blade fits seamlessly into the replacement key fob case. If not, most replacement key fob cases come with a new, uncut key blade. This will require a trip to a locksmith or key cutting service to have it duplicated from your original key.
Finally, while replacing the case itself doesn’t require reprogramming, getting a new key blade cut might lead you to consider getting a completely new key fob programmed as well, especially if you’re looking for a spare. Dealers often offer reprogramming services, but it’s worth noting that aftermarket keys and replacement key fob cases can sometimes be met with skepticism. Dealers might charge a reprogramming fee without guaranteeing success, particularly with aftermarket components. However, anecdotal evidence suggests a high success rate with reprogramming in most cases. Always inquire about the reprogramming process and any potential guarantees when dealing with dealerships or locksmiths.
In conclusion, replacing your key fob case is a DIY-friendly repair that can save you significant money compared to full key replacement. By carefully transferring your existing circuit board into a replacement key fob case, you can revitalize your car key and extend its lifespan. Just be mindful of potential minor adjustments needed for fit and key blade compatibility. With a little patience and these helpful tips, you can successfully tackle this project and enjoy a like-new key fob in no time.
