As a GMC truck enthusiast, you understand the importance of every detail, right down to the key fob in your pocket. Let’s face it, the standard GMC key fob, while functional, isn’t exactly a statement piece. Perhaps you’ve admired the sleeker, chrome-accented fobs on higher trim models and wondered if an upgrade was possible without a costly trip to the dealership.
The good news is, it is! Swapping the circuit board from your existing GMC key fob into a more aesthetically pleasing housing is a straightforward DIY project. This guide will walk you through each step of opening your GMC key fob, allowing you to upgrade its look without needing to reprogram anything. This method is perfect for those who, like me, appreciate a touch of style and prefer to handle simple upgrades themselves.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather these simple tools:
- #0 Philips screwdriver (or a similar round object)
- Small flat blade screwdriver (m1.8 or similar)
- A penny
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening Your GMC Key Fob
Let’s break down the process of safely opening your GMC key fob to access the internal circuit board. We’ll start with your current, standard fob.
Step 1: Opening the Old Key Fob and Removing the Battery
The first step is to open your old GMC key fob. Flip the fob over to access the back cover. You’ll notice a small slot designed for prying it open. Surprisingly, a penny works exceptionally well for this task. Insert the edge of the penny into the slot and gently twist. The back cover should pop off relatively easily.
Once the back cover is removed, you’ll see the battery. Carefully remove the battery and set it aside. This is a good time to note the battery orientation for reassembly later.
Step 2: Accessing the Circuit Board in Your Old Key Fob
With the battery removed, the next step in opening your GMC key fob is to separate the two halves of the fob housing and expose the circuit board. Look closely at the inside of the fob housing. You’ll see small holes, typically two, designed for releasing internal clips.
Using your #0 Philips screwdriver, or a similarly sized round object, gently push it straight into one of these holes. Apply firm, even pressure – avoid twisting or excessive force. You should hear or feel a slight pop as one side of the housing begins to separate. Repeat this process in the other hole.
Once both clips are released, you should be able to gently pull the two halves of the key fob housing apart with your fingers. They should separate without much resistance. Turn the housing over and lightly shake it. The circuit board is not fastened and should simply fall out. Set the circuit board and the old fob housing pieces aside safely.
Step 3: Opening the New Key Fob Housing
Now we move on to opening the new GMC key fob housing. This step requires a bit more finesse, particularly if your new fob has chrome trim pieces, as these often secure the housing halves together. Start by removing the battery cover and battery from the new fob, just as you did with the old one.
The crucial part here is removing the chrome side trim pieces, if present. These are usually held in place by small tabs and need to be removed in a specific way to avoid damage. Turn the new fob face down. Using your small flat blade screwdriver (like an m1.8), carefully insert the blade under the edge of the chrome trim piece, in the area indicated in the image below.
Gently pry one end of the chrome trim loose. Once you have a small gap, hold that end firmly to prevent it from snapping back into place. Carefully work the screwdriver along the trim piece to release the remaining tabs. Once one side is free, you can usually pull the entire chrome piece off. Repeat this process for the chrome trim on the other side of the fob.
With the chrome trim removed (if applicable), you will now see small plastic tabs along the edges of the new key fob housing. Use your flat blade screwdriver to gently pry these tabs back, one at a time, and carefully pull the two halves of the new housing apart.
Step 4: Circuit Board Swap and Reassembly
You’re now in the final stretch! The circuit board in the new key fob housing should also fall out easily, just like in the old one. Discard the new, unprogrammed circuit board (or keep it as a spare if you wish).
Take the circuit board from your original GMC key fob and place it into the new key fob housing. Ensure it sits correctly within the housing. Now, simply snap the two halves of the new key fob housing back together, reversing the opening process. If your new fob had chrome trim, reattach those pieces until they click securely into place. Finally, re-install the battery and battery cover.
Testing Your Upgraded GMC Key Fob
Congratulations! You’ve successfully opened your GMC key fob, swapped the circuit board, and upgraded its appearance. Now, test all the buttons on your new fob to ensure everything is working correctly – lock, unlock, remote start, and any other functions your fob may have.
By following these steps, you’ve given your GMC key fob a stylish upgrade without the expense and hassle of dealership programming. Enjoy the enhanced look of your key fob every time you reach for your keys!
