Is your Dodge key fob looking worn out, scratched, or simply outdated? Replacing the cover is a straightforward way to refresh its appearance and protect the internal components. This guide, based on real-world experience, will walk you through the process of installing a new Dodge Key Fob Cover, highlighting potential challenges and offering solutions to ensure a successful DIY upgrade.
Why Replace Your Dodge Key Fob Cover?
Over time, your key fob endures daily wear and tear. From being tossed in bags and pockets to accidental drops, the plastic casing can become damaged. A new dodge key fob cover offers several benefits:
- Protection: A fresh cover safeguards the circuit board and battery from dust, moisture, and impacts, potentially extending the lifespan of your key fob.
- Aesthetics: A new cover can restore the original look of your key fob, eliminating scratches and signs of aging. It’s a simple way to make your key fob look new again.
- Personalization: Many aftermarket dodge key fob covers come in various styles and materials, allowing you to personalize your key fob to match your taste.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools and materials:
- New Dodge Key Fob Cover: Purchase a cover specifically designed for your Dodge model and key fob type.
- Small Screwdriver or Pry Tool: Typically a flathead screwdriver, often included with the new cover, to open the key fob casing.
- Sharp Knife or Dremel (Optional): May be needed to carefully remove plastic pegs if they obstruct circuit board removal.
- Small Drill Bit (Optional): Could be necessary to enlarge mounting holes in the new cover if they are too small.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Dodge Key Fob Cover
Follow these steps to replace your dodge key fob cover. Remember to work carefully and patiently to avoid damaging the delicate internal components.
Opening the Old Key Fob
Most Dodge key fobs are designed to snap open. Carefully inspect your key fob for a small notch or seam. Use your screwdriver or pry tool to gently separate the two halves of the casing. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force, which could damage the plastic.
Removing the Circuit Board
Once the case is open, you’ll see the circuit board. In many Dodge key fobs, the circuit board is held in place by small plastic pegs.
Personal Experience: As one user noted, “The circuit board is held in with one small plastic peg… Mine wouldn’t come out.”
If you encounter a similar situation where a plastic peg is preventing the circuit board from being removed, you might need to carefully address it.
Alt Text: Opened Dodge key fob revealing the internal circuit board and plastic peg holding it in place.
Addressing a Stubborn Peg: If the circuit board is held by a peg that won’t release, carefully use a sharp knife or a Dremel with a cut-off wheel to trim the head of the plastic peg. Be extremely cautious not to damage the circuit board itself. After removing the peg obstruction, gently wiggle and pull the circuit board to detach it from the OEM case.
Installing the Circuit Board into the New Cover
Carefully place the circuit board into the new dodge key fob cover. Ensure it aligns correctly with the designated slots and openings.
Potential Fit Issues: “Couldn’t install it in the new case cuz the mounting hole… was too small for the mounting peg to fit through it.”
If you find that the mounting holes in the new cover are too small for the plastic pegs on the circuit board, you can carefully enlarge them using a small drill bit. Drill slowly and incrementally, checking the fit frequently to avoid making the hole too large.
Key Blade Considerations
Some dodge key fob covers come with a blank key blade, while others are designed to reuse your original key blade.
Key Compatibility Issue: “learned the hard way that I cannot install my original key into this new case. It locks in place, but can’t be removed.”
Be aware that the latch design in the new cover might be slightly different from the original. If your original key blade doesn’t fit properly or gets stuck, you may need to use the blank key blade that came with the new cover and have it cut to match your original key. A locksmith or key cutting service can easily do this for you.
Battery Installation and Closing the Case
Before closing the new cover, ensure the battery is correctly installed. Then, carefully snap the two halves of the new dodge key fob cover together until they are securely closed.
Reprogramming a New Key (If Necessary)
If your new dodge key fob cover came with a new transponder key and you want to use it, reprogramming might be required.
Reprogramming Experience: “Dealer said reprogramming would be 55 bucks. But dealer won’t guarantee that the reprogram will work as it’s aftermarket.”
Reprogramming can often be done at a Dodge dealership. However, be aware that dealers may charge a fee and might not guarantee compatibility with aftermarket keys. In many cases, aftermarket keys are compatible and can be successfully reprogrammed. It’s advisable to inquire about reprogramming costs and policies with your local dealer beforehand.
Conclusion
Replacing your dodge key fob cover is a cost-effective way to improve the look and feel of your key fob and provide added protection. While the process is generally straightforward, you might encounter minor challenges like stubborn pegs or fit issues. By following these steps and being prepared to address potential problems, you can successfully upgrade your dodge key fob cover and enjoy a refreshed and functional key fob.
