Stripped screw in key fob

[sjlee]

The battery in one of our key fobs needed replacing, but when I went to remove the back cover, I found that the screw had corroded. When I tried to remove the screw, I ended up stripping it.

I eventually was able to remove the back cover, but I don't know what to do with it. The bottom half of the screw is still stuck, so I cannot use a new screw (nor do I know where I would be able to find such a small screw).

Since the fob and the key are together, I'm guessing that I'll need to go to the dealer to get a replacement key.

Anyone else have problems with removing the cover on the fob?

[cofetym]

I usually buy a new Pilot when that happens.

Lens Crafters would probably just give you that
screw.
Don't go to the dealership.Try and come up with
a creative solution for that.
I know you have more than a couple of tools in
your garage.

[humanoid]

Those damn bastards put blue LocTite on the screw from the factory, I've broken 2 key shells trying to get that damn screw out.

[sjlee]

Originally Posted by humanoid

Those damn bastards put blue LocTite on the screw from the factory, I've broken 2 key shells trying to get that damn screw out.

What did you end up doing... buying new keys? Or is there a way to replace just the shell?

[humanoid]

Yes, had to get new keys off FleaBay.

[cofetym]

Might be time for a retractable key mod.

[humanoid]

Tried that, I couldn't get the little transponder out of the OEM key to put it into the new key.

[cofetym]

They really don't want you messing with these keys.

[sjlee]

Called my local dealer today. The key costs about $47 and programming it runs about $55. Not too bad considering some of the prices I've heard around here... but still ridiculous considering a new battery would just cost me about $3.

[akhenax]

Maybe take a drill, and drill the smallest hole you can into the stripped screw, so that only the below part of the screw is being used, and the above part is disintegrated. Then just replace the battery, and replace the cover using a temporary flexible glue sealant like Elmers Stix-all cement (it dries clear). That way you can replace the battery again at some point if you need to.

BTW, where can I find the battery for a fob? My CVS or Supermarkets didn't carry that type.

[sjlee]

Originally Posted by akhenax

Maybe take a drill, and drill the smallest hole you can into the stripped screw, so that only the below part of the screw is being used, and the above part is disintegrated. Then just replace the battery, and replace the cover using a temporary flexible glue sealant like Elmers Stix-all cement (it dries clear). That way you can replace the battery again at some point if you need to.

BTW, where can I find the battery for a fob? My CVS or Supermarkets didn't carry that type.

I thought about that too... maybe I'll do that and have a third extra key.

As far as finding the battery, try a place with a decent electronics dept... like Best Buy or Radio Shack. Walmart or Target might even have it. Otherwise, Batteries Plus will have it.

[humanoid]

RadioShack or even PepBoys may have the correct battery for the key. RadioShack will definitely have it, but it'll cost more.

[95c1v1c]

I had this problem, my walmart has the battery...I was able to get the transmitter out carefully without killing the shell. Carefullly pry the opposite end and the shell will come open, slide out the transmitter.

[hondacuraplanet]

If you try to drill the screw out, the plastic around the screw will just end up melting. Still though, it accomplishes the same task. Then put a dot of super glue on each corner to hold it back on. If you need to access the battery again, just slice the corners with a razor blade.

[Tuck & Jack]

I just did this last weekend. Use the tip of a very fine drill bit to start a conical depression in the screw, then get a bit set for a electric drill/driver that removes stripped out screws. Use firm but gentle pressure and slow speed to remove it. My set cost about $8 for a set of 3 double ended bits. I used the smallest one to back out the stripped out screw then open the key fob and replace the battery then go to the dealer and get two new screws (one for now and one for the eventual stripping of that one) for $2 each. $12 dollars vs. whatever it costs to get a new key, get it cut and coded. I guess you can decide.