Is your Chevy key fob looking worn out, cracked, or are the buttons no longer working as they should? Before you rush to a dealership and spend a significant amount on a new key fob, consider a simple and cost-effective solution: replacing the shell. This guide will walk you through how to replace your Chevy key fob shell quickly and easily, saving you time and money.
Replacing your Chevy key fob shell is a straightforward process that anyone can do at home with just a few basic tools. Whether your key fob is suffering from cosmetic damage from everyday wear and tear, or the internal mechanism is still functioning perfectly, a shell replacement can give your key fob a brand new lease on life. You might need to replace your shell if the buttons are hard to press, the flip mechanism is loose, or the plastic casing is cracked or broken. Instead of replacing the entire key fob and going through the hassle of reprogramming, simply transferring the internal components to a new shell is a smart and efficient fix.
Before we begin, gather the necessary tool: a small flathead screwdriver. This will be used to gently pry open the existing key fob shell.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Chevy Key Fob Shell
Follow these simple steps to replace your Chevy key fob shell and restore your key fob to its former glory.
Step 1: Open the Battery Compartment and Remove the Battery
First, you’ll need to access the inside of your key fob. Locate the battery cover on the back of your key fob. With the key flipped out to the open position, place your thumb in the space where the key sits when folded. Gently pop off the battery cover. Once the cover is removed, carefully take out the battery and set it aside.
Step 2: Pry Open the Key Fob Shell
Now, it’s time to separate the two halves of the key fob shell. Using your small flathead screwdriver, gently pry along the seam of the key fob. Start at the top side of the key fob, where the keyring loop is located. Insert the tip of the screwdriver into the seam and apply gentle pressure to start separating the shell.
Once you’ve created a small opening on the top side, move to the backside of the key fob, near the metal keyring holder. Pry this side slowly and carefully to ease the shell apart. You may be able to hold the plastic part of the shell and push against the metal keyring portion to help separate the halves. As the front face comes free from the back face, be aware that it might spin a couple of revolutions due to the internal spring mechanism.
Step 3: Remove Internal Components
With the shell open, you can now access the internal components. Carefully remove the key blade and the electronic chip from the old key fob shell. Set these components aside as you will be transferring them to the new shell.
Step 4: Assemble the New Shell
Now, it’s time to assemble your key fob with the new shell. This step requires a bit of attention to ensure the spring mechanism is correctly set.
Step 4a: Insert Components
Begin by placing the push button back into the key if it was separated. Then, insert the electronic chip into the front face of the new shell, ensuring it is facing down in its designated slot. Next, position the key blade in its housing in the “out” or open position. Place the spring back into the push button area. It should seat into a locked position.
Step 4b: Reattach Shell and Twist
Carefully position the back face of the new shell onto the front face, aligning the spring’s small “foot” into its corresponding slot on the back face. This “foot” is crucial for the flip mechanism to work correctly.
Hold the key fob shell together and rotate the back face in a counterclockwise direction. This action will wind the spring and create the outward spring action for the key. Rotate the back face two full revolutions.
Once rotated, carefully snap the back face onto the front face of the shell, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
Step 5: Final Check and Reassembly
Finally, ensure the new shell is firmly closed and all parts are securely in place. Reinsert the battery you removed in Step 1, making sure it is oriented correctly. Then, snap the battery cover back onto the key fob. Test the key fob buttons and the flip mechanism to ensure everything is working as expected.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your Chevy key fob shell. This simple DIY task can save you a significant amount of money compared to purchasing a new key fob and avoids the need for dealer programming. By following these steps, you can easily refresh the look and functionality of your Chevy key fob in just a few minutes. If you find that you need a replacement shell, you can find them at various online retailers, ensuring you get your key fob looking and working like new again without breaking the bank.
