Thank you very much for taking the time to provide this information. You have helped hundreds perhaps thousands of people. Your time and effort is greatly appreciated and commendable.
My dealership wanted almost $200 to replace the battery. Told me it was "Impossible" to do yourself. I watched your video, got the battery on Amazon, and the whole thing cost me less than 5 bucks. Thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for posting the video. I tried applying heat but that didn't work. Ended up breaking the key fob case and then realized the little screw was stuck to the metal key. No way that little screw was budging. After replacing the battery, I was able to tape/glue it together. Was pleasently surprised it still worked!
2007 Honda Accord....Took me less than 3 minutes to open the case as shown, replace battery and pop back together. So awesome to have helpful people to share their knowledge. Thank you so much!!!
Honda must hate this video which helps us desperate consumers to save $$$. Thanks for protecting us from getting ripped up by the dealer. Followed these directions and was able to replace the battery despite the stuck screw on the key.
Wow thank you so much! You saved me $200 which was the price quoted by the dealership to replace my key. I'm convinced they purposely use cheap screws that are easily stripped. You deserve way more subs
Thanks so much! It took 10 minutes for 2 keys on a used 2004 Accord I recently bought. The dealer wanted $125/each to replace them, even tho they're fine with new batteries in. Broke the back of one, called Honda & got the back plate & screw for under $20 (I don't want the Amazon knockoffs when the original is that cheap).
Slow and easy wins the race. Took my time and only applied as much pressure as I needed to and it works, thanks a bunch. Also, props to the local dealer giving me a screw and a battery for free, that's good customer service right there.
My hero! Batteries + refused to replace it, said they don't do Honda fobs because they break and I have to go to the dealer. All very technical. That was over two years ago! Two years of using the key on front door to unlock others for loading groceries, getting into trunk, and fumbling to lock up the car with my arms full. Got used to doing that instead of finding the time and $ to get across town to the dealer during work hours. Finally resolved to get it done but checked online to see if I could do it myself first. A guy made it look easy so I ordered battery and tiny screwdrivers from Amazon and spent a frustrating night stripping the screw head. Found forum that said to use heat gun to melt the loctite on the screw. Then I found this video. Just unlocked my car from the porch and gave myself a dope slap for taking two years to figure it out. Thank you!
Joe, I did it!! I followed your instructions on how to take the battery out without taking the screw off....It was easier than I thought......Thank you SO much, Joy
I know this video is 5 years old, but boy did it save the day. I had spent 45 minutes fighting with the jammed screw. I called it quits before I would strip the screw head completely. Even if I would let the dealership gouge me (over $120), I won't get a replacement until after the holidays. This is what their parts department told me earlier today (Friday, 21st December). Then, I thought I'd give YT a try to see if there is a solution. I found this video. Bought a CR1616 battery, got home, watched this video one more time. From start to finish, it took me about 4 minutes to replace the battery. Getting the module loose enough to fall out of the key fob casing took the most time. I am not exactly the handy type, but I managed to get it done without breaking anything. And instead of $120, I only spent $4 on the battery. Yay! Thank you very much, Joe.
Dude you have saved me!! How STUPID for Honda to put thread lock on that screw. I was wondering if some idiot had put Loctite on there. Now I just have to buy the correct battery 🔋. Thank you!!!!!
Thanks for the video...this was a real lifesaver. I tried to unscrew the pathetic screw from the Honda key fob with a jewelers screwdriver and it's stripped beyond use. Glad to see that there's a method to open it up and switch out the dead battery. You'd think Honda would get the message by now.
Joe, you video help worked for me first time. In about 3 minutes I had replaced my Honda Pilot remote battery and reinstalled with not breaking the case. Many thanks to you. I had been working on that screw that was stripped for several weeks with no success despite the small screw extractor kit I purchased for about $25. on Amazon. I should have learned by now to go to the internet Google search first. Richard
9 years later you’re still saving our bacon, like you did tonight. I stripped the screw and tried your solution. Amazing! And I didn’t break anything! Thanks much!
Joe, Thanks for this hack that works. Tried everything to remove screw with proper sized driver and no budge. Heated. Acetone, nothing would budget the locktite screw. This worked in five minutes. If you pry gently the center comes out without cracking the case. Thanks for taking the time to post,
This is the BEST video. I tried a watch repair guy, an optician guy, and the honda service rep who barely glanced at it said can't be done! Your method worked like a charm. Thanks!
I couldn't retract the screw as the previous owner had shredded it. I resorted to using your technique to remove the battery compartment by prying open the key casing. Worked a treat! Thanks Joe!
Life saver. I stripped my screw thinking it was all over for me..but then i came across this video and it worked! it was a little hassle trying to take out the actual remote but with steady hands and concentration it was accomplished. Thanks Joe! Very helpful and cheap way to change that battery.
Much appreciated Mr. Ratz. I don't know what Honda was thinking when they decided to put locktite (or something more like glue) in that screw hole. It is completely unneeded and judging by how many comments you have, it clearly causes headaches for almost everyone trying to swap out batteries. Thank you for this tutorial.
This was really useful. I was about to buy entire key with program fee with the dealer --- around 150USD. All I did is to remove the small board inside according to your explanation, go to Walmart to get the new battery and put it. 30 minutes and 3.5 USD only. Thank you very much indeed !!!
Even with a precision 00 Phillips-head screwdriver, I could not get the screw out of both of my 2005 Honda Accord keyfobs, and I naturally stripped them both. I have confirmed that this video accurately displays a viable workaround for the problem, as I replaced both of my batteries, and without damaging either of my keyfobs. You just have to be careful and patient when performing this "surgery". Thank you Joe Ratz!
Thank You so much we have been dealing with stripped fobs for both vehicles for almost 7 months now with your help I was able to change both out within ten minutes. Thank You very much….
Even after 5 years this is still the best video on RUclips for replacing the battery in a Honda key. Especially if you strip the screw by using the wrong size phillips head screwdriver or even (like I did) one of those small thin precision screwdrivers where you can't get a good grip to break the thread locker Honda puts on the screws. I bought a uncut replacement key on Amazon for
Joe, I was so frustrated with the battery replacement experience for my fobs. I didn't realize that BOTH my fob batteries were dead. I initially thought I had a larger problem because I couldn't believe BOTH fob batteries died. I ordered two Maxell 1616 batteries from ebay (only $2 for both) and then realized I couldn't get inside so easily. The screws were crazy tight as everyone here knows and they are so darn small. I went to the Autozone and the salesman loosened one up with a $5 screwdriver and assumed it would be easy to do the other one. I probably should have just bought the screwdriver but I left thinking it would be easy at this point. It turned out that I messed up a cheap screwdriver and then partially ruined the head of the screw with another screwdriver. Since I was successful with changing the battery on one undoing the screw,I decided to take a risk and follow your advice on the video and decided to carefully pry the one that had the messed up screw open and then carefully forcing the insides housing out as you did. I was less confident than you were on the video as I really didn't want to break the screw off. Once I got the inside housing out, it was easy to replace the battery. I then followed what you said and reinserted the inside housing slowly and popped the exterior key case back together! I went 11 years on one battery on one fob. The spare fob has sat in a drawer for 11 years practically unused and that battery died also. However, now that I have successfully changed the batteries on both fobs, I suspect that this will be the first and last time I will have to replace the fob batteries for this Honda Accord. I love the creativity people have in solving problems. I absolutely hate going to the local Honda dealership for so many reasons. The biggest reason is that they just take advantage of their monopoly position (only Honda dealership in town) and rip people off. Thank you so much for, Joe! You have helped so many people. Collectively, you have saved people thousands of dollars of unnecessary expense.
Thanks man! Worked like a champ doing this. Takes a video for someone to try it… do it nicely and this process works…. I had to hold it open like a clam and with small screw driver in my mouth to push out the core haha
Thanks Joe - been frustrated for 2 years ! Finally decided to do a search, and lo and behold I found you video on RUclips. It worked fantastic - thanks so much for sharing !
THANK YOU!! As a ‘new to me’ Honda owner the back doors won’t lock. They told me first step Change The Battery. It looked like a rivet, the screw was that stripped. I followed your directions, and found out the screw was stripped, took it out and after all of that, , the inner workings are junk. So tomorrow I’m off to the Dealer.
Thanks a lot Joe. Just replaced my battery following your instruction in spite of having a stripped screw. Taking the unit out with the screw stuck was like delivering a baby by caesarian. Took it out smoothly and replaced the battery with no problem.Total cost $1.00 for the battery on ebay.Thanks for saving me $199 from the dealer!!!!
Thanks man. I ran across this video after calling the dealership. I'm so glad that i didn't call them back after hanging up because parts transferred me to service only to have service transfer me back to parts.
Hi Joe, I literally spent an hour trying to get rid of the tiny screw in the remote key until I came across this video and it literally took me 1 minute!!! This was such a great tutorial, thanks so much for uploading this, best simple method!
First comment I have EVER left on RUclips...You are an absolute genius! I have tried unsuccessfully (and so have many other friends) for a year to try to change the battery with that stupid stripped out screw! After watching your video, I had it done in under 5 minutes! I can't thank you enough for posting this workaround! Bravo!
If you'd like to thank me more you could mail me some cash or gold. Just kidding. CongRatz on finding my video and am pleased people like it. I worked at Honda dealership when these keys were introduced in 2002 with the 2003 Accord. As a Parts Ninja I was the first person to see this problem up close. I was also the first person and got lucky figuring out how to pop them open like this. People like to save money, I am glad to help.
Hey Joe, this video saved me from taking a hammer to my Civic and Accord remotes. All 4 of them do NOT come apart by the screw method and 3 out of 4 are not stripped. Thanks for posting this video. I even found key fob shells on Amazon for $10. You rock!!
Thank you!! You saved both of my key fobs!!! I ran out of battery on one of them 3 years ago and couldn't fix it... and used the spare. The spare ran out of battery this week. The screws from both are all stripped and I was gonna go to the dealer, but your video saved me hundreds of dollars! Thank you!
THIS IS THE BEST AUTO HACK I'VE EVER SEEN!!! My wife went around for 2 years without a working remote because I stripped the head of the little screw trying to remove it, and we wouldn't pay the $110+ that the dealership wanted. Then mine went out too, and of course I stripped the screw head on that one too. The manufacturer seals them with Locktite, so you CAN'T get it out without setroying the screw, and you HAVE to go to them to pay big money, instead of the $3 or $4 a new battery costs. It took me 3 minutes to fix the first one this way, and 1 1/2 minutes to fix the second once I'd learned the trick. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
Thank you Joe for the great key hack!!! I used it to replace the batteries on both of my keys. It worked very well and I had no problems. I used a blade on the end of the key to open the key rather than starting as you did. Otherwise your technique worked like a charm.
Joe, Thanks for this video. (Over four years old, but still helping people like me.) I stripped the small screw on the remote key, but I found your video and replaced the battery by prying the key open just as you demonstrated...without breaking it....:) and put a new battery in. Works great! Thanks again!
Thank you for offering solutions when the key screw was stripped. I was feeling that I was going to have to take the key to the dealer, but your video saved me. Even though I didn't need it, by offering solutions just in case you break the case, you made me more comfortable attempting the whole process. A big thank you!
Thank you so much, Joe! You have saved me a heck of time and money! I have been driving around town looking for solutions, trying to buy tools like mini screw driver, etc.; the places I have been are Walmart, London drug, Canadian Tire, the Dollar Store, but with no luck. I have tried many small screw drivers, but it ends up a stripped screw stuck in my car fob. I was desperate until finding your solution here, you are brilliant! It works perfectly for me! I own two Honda cars, one is Pilot, and the other is Accord. I own them because Honda makes reliable cars; but Honda car key fob design just brainless. How many people have the right tool to unscrew those tiny screws? Every time it’s a struggle for me to replace my car key battery, just because the tiny screw on the key fob! It almost killed me this time until I found your solution and it works! Thanks again for your good work and sharing your experience!
Heck yeah!, You are awesome. My Remote was stripped with a dead battery for years. I always had the replacement battery but couldn't get it in until now. Thank you so much!
Was more than a little worried about this method but on the Honda forums they were heating up the screw to loosen the locktite crap Honda put on it, using a rubber band (didn't come close) or drilling which seemed ever more spooky. Your method worked like a charm on my fob. Nothing broke and back in business!!! Thanks a ton.
Thanks for this hack. I had this problem with my key, and following your video I was able to change out the battery and put the key back together in a couple of minutes, with no problems.
Thanks Joe Ratz! 10 minutes of messing around with the screw as I slowly stripped it convinced me to see if there was another way to avoid a trip to the dealer. Saved me time and from getting increasingly aggravated!
I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for your video. I have been putting off this task for the past two years and looking at this video, I did it in less than two minutes. A Big thank you to you for posting this video and helping us.
Thank you Joe. I was able to change out two key fob batteries with your help. One screw was stripped out and I was able to replace the battery without breaking the plastic case.
Thanks much Joe! I stripped the screw and hadn't even noticed the notch to pry it open. My fob is a little different for my Honda Accord, but close enough.
Thank you so much! Battery stopped working today, and when I got home the screw was stuck. Found your video and changed it out in about 5 Min. Thank you again!
I have Honda Civic key. It is slightly different but with fidgeting and similar maneuver to your great video managed to change the battery. One of the most helpful videos on youtube. Honda need to have a better design for the key.
Awesome. I did your advice, warmed it up like another commenter suggested. I put it in a clamp lengthwise, though to get a gap to open up and that was enough to get my foot in the floor. One of my buttons was sticking was the original problem, but that cleared right up after a little blowout/scrape. Happy to be able to unlock my door again.
Joe, this has to be one of the most helpful videos on You Tube. You're a great problem solver. Had a stripped screw on the key just as you described, didn't know what to do. Followed your instructions, worked like a charm. Thank you!
Joe Ratz More than a thumbs up!!! You are DA MAN! This vid saved me $$$. Followed your instructions, got er' done, bought the new battery, installed and it's now working like new!! Thank you Joe! Even with stripped screw, your instructions worked for me!
Wow that's crazy thanks for making this video, I typed in RUclips how to get the screw out of a key and somehow it knew I was driving a Honda and My key looks exactly like this 🗝️ I followed step-by-step right along your video and it actually worked and didn't take me longer than 3 minutes on my second try without breaking it🎉
Hi Joe, thank you for sharing the video. Had exact same problem this morning, was going to the local locksmith, but found your video. Problem solved in 10 minutes. Thank you kindly.
Thank you so much for your help! My husband thought I wouldn't be able to do it, and thanks to you, I proved him wrong! You saved us a ton of money! Thanks again!
All these years later, let me add my thanks to the list. The dealership was going to charge me $40+ to do it (battery+ new back + new front). So, thanks for this video. Took me about 5 - 10 minutes. Plus $5 for a new battery
Thank you so much for creating this helpful video! Like many others, I found it in a moment of frustration and your instructions quickly solved my problem! 😊
Thanks for the tip! The cover came off but I snapped it back over the screw with the same set of pliers I tried unscrewing the screw with. Worked like a charm.
Thank you kind sir! It;s amazing how much the internet can help you. I stripped the screw and randomly googled the key words and the first video was yours. THANK YOU! It worked!
Joe Ratz I second the sentiment. I was all prepped to have to pay to cut a new key, until I say this video. Then I simply did as you said, and poof! I love it!
Thank you so much for this! Both my fobs were dead and I didn’t want to spend $150 minimum to get one of them replaced at the dealership. I did exactly what you said and used a hair dryer on and off to keep the plastic malleable. Getting the inner case out was extremely difficult even though I have the smallest hands and fingers. It took me 25 minutes to fix the first fob but it works and I feel so accomplished. My dad will be amazed! I used a Swiss Army knife at the initial phase just to get an opening in the case and then used the screwdrivers. Once again, thank you so much!
Very helpful, thanks! Was dreading paying a ton of money for a new key and every hardware store told me they don't make screw breakers that small. I dinged up the side of key fob trying to get the screw driver into the slot but it worked and beats paying for a new key fob.
This video is a lifesaver!! I thought I had to get a brand new key since I stripped the tiny little screw. But after a few tries of prying the case open (trying two different flat head screwdrivers, the smaller one worked), I was able to change out not only one but two key batteries! Thank you!!
Thank you. You are a life and money saver. I have the same issue with the screw and have been driving with dead battery for over an year. Wish I saw this sooner😂
You're a lifesaver! I needed to replace batteries in both keys. The Honda dealer in Niagara Falls Ontario wanted to charge me $36.00 to replace just the batteries. I ended up buying them both from The Source for $18.00. Then I used your idea and replaced them both myself. Thanks so much!
Thanks so much for this video. You completely saved the day! We had totally stripped the screw and thought it was hopeless! I did a search for “stripped screw on Honda key fab”...not expecting to find anything and then there you were! Thank you so much! And we didn’t even break the casing! 😉
I want to thank you for taking the time to make this video. I just replaced my battery on a stripped screw and followed your directions. You are the man.
Thanks for all the kind words folks, glad I could help. More advice, make sure your key is warm when you do this, the plastic is less prone to break if your key is little warm pocket temperature is good.
Thank you so much for the tip. I was about to drill the screw out, figured to check RUclips first . Only taken me 2 mins to open it up, replaced battery, no damages.
Thanks for the awesome video! I warmed up the screw joint with a lighter before popping out the remote as the prevent any cracking. Did this with the second key and the battery came back to life once I opened it up. Did not have to replace it.
Thank you very much for this video. I had stripped screws in both my key and spare and didn't know what I was going to do. But by following your instructions I was able to replace the batteries in both keys easily. It was a bit hard to see what exactly was going on in the video but the explanation was very clear and was easy to follow. Also the demonstration on what happens if you separate the pieces too far was very helpful. But I'm also glad I read the comments as well as warming up the key also helped a great deal. Big thumbs up!
Thank you for this. I sent this video to my friend who, along with her dad, struggled for a few days trying to open up the fobs to her 14 yr old Honda. She spent 25 minutes with a hair dryer, but it worked! Thanks again for taking the time to record and upload this to RUclips.
Thank you very much for taking the time to provide this information. You have helped hundreds perhaps thousands of people. Your time and effort is greatly appreciated and commendable.
11 year old video still getting views. Thanks for the compliment. Cheers.
You are a life saver. I bought a dollar set to open the screw but coudln’t remove it. Watch your video and in 15 mins all set. Thanks
Just watched your video to change my Honda battery.. saved me a $400 dealership price! Thanks!!!!
My dealership wanted almost $200 to replace the battery. Told me it was "Impossible" to do yourself. I watched your video, got the battery on Amazon, and the whole thing cost me less than 5 bucks. Thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for posting the video. I tried applying heat but that didn't work. Ended up breaking the key fob case and then realized the little screw was stuck to the metal key. No way that little screw was budging. After replacing the battery, I was able to tape/glue it together. Was pleasently surprised it still worked!
2007 Honda Accord....Took me less than 3 minutes to open the case as shown, replace battery and pop back together. So awesome to have helpful people to share their knowledge. Thank you so much!!!
Honda must hate this video which helps us desperate consumers to save $$$. Thanks for protecting us from getting ripped up by the dealer.
Followed these directions and was able to replace the battery despite the stuck screw on the key.
Wow thank you so much! You saved me $200 which was the price quoted by the dealership to replace my key. I'm convinced they purposely use cheap screws that are easily stripped. You deserve way more subs
If I had more content I'd feel the sub shortages. I'm ok having a one hit wonder. It's been fun to share this work around.
Thanks so much! It took 10 minutes for 2 keys on a used 2004 Accord I recently bought. The dealer wanted $125/each to replace them, even tho they're fine with new batteries in. Broke the back of one, called Honda & got the back plate & screw for under $20 (I don't want the Amazon knockoffs when the original is that cheap).
The batteries were $7 each, also from the dealer parts dept.
Finally, don't be afraid that you'll break the case; it's made to open like this.
Slow and easy wins the race. Took my time and only applied as much pressure as I needed to and it works, thanks a bunch. Also, props to the local dealer giving me a screw and a battery for free, that's good customer service right there.
My hero! Batteries + refused to replace it, said they don't do Honda fobs because they break and I have to go to the dealer. All very technical. That was over two years ago! Two years of using the key on front door to unlock others for loading groceries, getting into trunk, and fumbling to lock up the car with my arms full. Got used to doing that instead of finding the time and $ to get across town to the dealer during work hours. Finally resolved to get it done but checked online to see if I could do it myself first. A guy made it look easy so I ordered battery and tiny screwdrivers from Amazon and spent a frustrating night stripping the screw head. Found forum that said to use heat gun to melt the loctite on the screw. Then I found this video. Just unlocked my car from the porch and gave myself a dope slap for taking two years to figure it out. Thank you!
You and me both.
My experience exactly!! @melissaroberts4216
Thanks to Hero Joe, I feel so victorious today!! 🎉
Joe, I did it!! I followed your instructions on how to take the battery out without taking the screw off....It was easier than I thought......Thank you SO much, Joy
I know this video is 5 years old, but boy did it save the day. I had spent 45 minutes fighting with the jammed screw. I called it quits before I would strip the screw head completely.
Even if I would let the dealership gouge me (over $120), I won't get a replacement until after the holidays. This is what their parts department told me earlier today (Friday, 21st December). Then, I thought I'd give YT a try to see if there is a solution. I found this video.
Bought a CR1616 battery, got home, watched this video one more time. From start to finish, it took me about 4 minutes to replace the battery. Getting the module loose enough to fall out of the key fob casing took the most time. I am not exactly the handy type, but I managed to get it done without breaking anything. And instead of $120, I only spent $4 on the battery. Yay!
Thank you very much, Joe.
Dude you have saved me!!
How STUPID for Honda to put thread lock on that screw.
I was wondering if some idiot had put Loctite on there.
Now I just have to buy the correct battery 🔋.
Thank you!!!!!
Thanks for the video...this was a real lifesaver. I tried to unscrew the pathetic screw from the Honda key fob with a jewelers screwdriver and it's stripped beyond use. Glad to see that there's a method to open it up and switch out the dead battery. You'd think Honda would get the message by now.
So glad I came upon your vid! Saved us a lot of stress! Thanks so much for sharing!
Dude you are a genius, thank you! This took me 5min and I changed it for my sons 07 Accord. 😃
Joe, you video help worked for me first time. In about 3 minutes I had replaced my Honda Pilot remote battery and reinstalled with not breaking the case. Many thanks to you. I had been working on that screw that was stripped for several weeks with no success despite the small screw extractor kit I purchased for about $25. on Amazon. I should have learned by now to go to the internet Google search first.
Richard
9 years later you’re still saving our bacon, like you did tonight. I stripped the screw and tried your solution. Amazing! And I didn’t break anything! Thanks much!
Joe, Thanks for this hack that works. Tried everything to remove screw with proper sized driver and no budge. Heated. Acetone, nothing would budget the locktite screw. This worked in five minutes. If you pry gently the center comes out without cracking the case. Thanks for taking the time to post,
This is the BEST video. I tried a watch repair guy, an optician guy, and the honda service rep who barely glanced at it said can't be done! Your method worked like a charm. Thanks!
I couldn't retract the screw as the previous owner had shredded it. I resorted to using your technique to remove the battery compartment by prying open the key casing. Worked a treat! Thanks Joe!
Life saver. I stripped my screw thinking it was all over for me..but then i came across this video and it worked! it was a little hassle trying to take out the actual remote but with steady hands and concentration it was accomplished. Thanks Joe! Very helpful and cheap way to change that battery.
I have the same problem. Thanks so much for this Excellent Video. Thanks again.
Another user here just wanting to say thank you. Just had this exact issue, and your steps worked perfectly. Now my key is fixed. Thanks so much!!!
Much appreciated Mr. Ratz. I don't know what Honda was thinking when they decided to put locktite (or something more like glue) in that screw hole. It is completely unneeded and judging by how many comments you have, it clearly causes headaches for almost everyone trying to swap out batteries. Thank you for this tutorial.
This was really useful. I was about to buy entire key with program fee with the dealer --- around 150USD. All I did is to remove the small board inside according to your explanation, go to Walmart to get the new battery and put it. 30 minutes and 3.5 USD only. Thank you very much indeed !!!
Wow just changed the batteries to both my key fobs thanks to this. MVP
YOU’RE THE MAN!!!! Thx so much! That screw is a nightmare!
Even with a precision 00 Phillips-head screwdriver, I could not get the screw out of both of my 2005 Honda Accord keyfobs, and I naturally stripped them both.
I have confirmed that this video accurately displays a viable workaround for the problem, as I replaced both of my batteries, and without damaging either of my keyfobs. You just have to be careful and patient when performing this "surgery".
Thank you Joe Ratz!
Thank You so much we have been dealing with stripped fobs for both vehicles for almost 7 months now with your help I was able to change both out within ten minutes. Thank You very much….
Even after 5 years this is still the best video on RUclips for replacing the battery in a Honda key. Especially if you strip the screw by using the wrong size phillips head screwdriver or even (like I did) one of those small thin precision screwdrivers where you can't get a good grip to break the thread locker Honda puts on the screws.
I bought a uncut replacement key on Amazon for
Joe ... my new best friend ... 2007 CRV fob ... Your pry apart method was perfect!! GW 2:24
Joe, I was so frustrated with the battery replacement experience for my fobs. I didn't realize that BOTH my fob batteries were dead. I initially thought I had a larger problem because I couldn't believe BOTH fob batteries died. I ordered two Maxell 1616 batteries from ebay (only $2 for both) and then realized I couldn't get inside so easily. The screws were crazy tight as everyone here knows and they are so darn small.
I went to the Autozone and the salesman loosened one up with a $5 screwdriver and assumed it would be easy to do the other one. I probably should have just bought the screwdriver but I left thinking it would be easy at this point. It turned out that I messed up a cheap screwdriver and then partially ruined the head of the screw with another screwdriver.
Since I was successful with changing the battery on one undoing the screw,I decided to take a risk and follow your advice on the video and decided to carefully pry the one that had the messed up screw open and then carefully forcing the insides housing out as you did. I was less confident than you were on the video as I really didn't want to break the screw off. Once I got the inside housing out, it was easy to replace the battery.
I then followed what you said and reinserted the inside housing slowly and popped the exterior key case back together! I went 11 years on one battery on one fob. The spare fob has sat in a drawer for 11 years practically unused and that battery died also. However, now that I have successfully changed the batteries on both fobs, I suspect that this will be the first and last time I will have to replace the fob batteries for this Honda Accord.
I love the creativity people have in solving problems. I absolutely hate going to the local Honda dealership for so many reasons. The biggest reason is that they just take advantage of their monopoly position (only Honda dealership in town) and rip people off. Thank you so much for, Joe! You have helped so many people. Collectively, you have saved people thousands of dollars of unnecessary expense.
worked like a charm...I used an eye glasses screw to replace the wretched stripped one
Thanks man! Worked like a champ doing this. Takes a video for someone to try it… do it nicely and this process works…. I had to hold it open like a clam and with small screw driver in my mouth to push out the core haha
Thanks Joe - been frustrated for 2 years ! Finally decided to do a search, and lo and behold I found you video on RUclips. It worked fantastic - thanks so much for sharing !
This worked great. After looking for a screw extractor, I found this video. Easier and cheaper than trying to extract the screw.. Thanks Joe
THANK YOU!! As a ‘new to me’ Honda owner the back doors won’t lock. They told me first step Change The Battery. It looked like a rivet, the screw was that stripped. I followed your directions, and found out the screw was stripped, took it out and after all of that, , the inner workings are junk. So tomorrow I’m off to the Dealer.
Thanks a lot Joe. Just replaced my battery following your instruction in spite of having a stripped screw. Taking the unit out with the screw stuck was like delivering a baby by caesarian.
Took it out smoothly and replaced the battery with no problem.Total cost $1.00 for the battery on ebay.Thanks for saving me $199 from the dealer!!!!
Thanks man. I ran across this video after calling the dealership. I'm so glad that i didn't call them back after hanging up because parts transferred me to service only to have service transfer me back to parts.
Thanks Joe! Of course, this happened to me when I was trying to change my battery- you're the best!
Hi Joe,
I literally spent an hour trying to get rid of the tiny screw in the remote key until I came across this video and it literally took me 1 minute!!!
This was such a great tutorial, thanks so much for uploading this, best simple method!
First comment I have EVER left on RUclips...You are an absolute genius! I have tried unsuccessfully (and so have many other friends) for a year to try to change the battery with that stupid stripped out screw! After watching your video, I had it done in under 5 minutes! I can't thank you enough for posting this workaround! Bravo!
If you'd like to thank me more you could mail me some cash or gold. Just kidding. CongRatz on finding my video and am pleased people like it. I worked at Honda dealership when these keys were introduced in 2002 with the 2003 Accord. As a Parts Ninja I was the first person to see this problem up close. I was also the first person and got lucky figuring out how to pop them open like this. People like to save money, I am glad to help.
+Joe Ratz Hi Joe mine will not turn ignition. But it's completely torn apart. Help please
Sorry at that point you will need to get it replaced.
Ok thank you😊
Hey Joe, this video saved me from taking a hammer to my Civic and Accord remotes. All 4 of them do NOT come apart by the screw method and 3 out of 4 are not stripped. Thanks for posting this video. I even found key fob shells on Amazon for $10. You rock!!
Thank you!! You saved both of my key fobs!!! I ran out of battery on one of them 3 years ago and couldn't fix it... and used the spare. The spare ran out of battery this week. The screws from both are all stripped and I was gonna go to the dealer, but your video saved me hundreds of dollars! Thank you!
Thank you Joe! This little bastard screw was giving me a headache. Your video continues to remain relevant and helpful even 9 years later!
From Japan?
@@Wordaroundthebonfire From Australia. My name owes to my disposition to Japanese guitarists
7 years ago and still helpful. I should’ve watched this forst before trying to take that stripped screw. Thanks
Thank you. I stripped the screw as well. Both keys didn't work and couldn't get into my car! So appreciate the tip!
THIS IS THE BEST AUTO HACK I'VE EVER SEEN!!! My wife went around for 2 years without a working remote because I stripped the head of the little screw trying to remove it, and we wouldn't pay the $110+ that the dealership wanted. Then mine went out too, and of course I stripped the screw head on that one too. The manufacturer seals them with Locktite, so you CAN'T get it out without setroying the screw, and you HAVE to go to them to pay big money, instead of the $3 or $4 a new battery costs. It took me 3 minutes to fix the first one this way, and 1 1/2 minutes to fix the second once I'd learned the trick.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!
Thank you for this. I struggled with the stripped screw and was very close to just going to a dealership. This was an easy, and inexpensive fix.
7 + years later, still great advice! Needed this
Outstanding! So obvious, yet I never would have thought to try it. Three minute repair. No problems at all. Thank YOU!!
Thank you Joe for the great key hack!!! I used it to replace the batteries on both of my keys. It worked very well and I had no problems. I used a blade on the end of the key to open the key rather than starting as you did. Otherwise your technique worked like a charm.
Joe, Thanks for this video. (Over four years old, but still helping people like me.) I stripped the small screw on the remote key, but I found your video and replaced the battery by prying the key open just as you demonstrated...without breaking it....:) and put a new battery in. Works great! Thanks again!
Thank you for offering solutions when the key screw was stripped. I was feeling that I was going to have to take the key to the dealer, but your video saved me. Even though I didn't need it, by offering solutions just in case you break the case, you made me more comfortable attempting the whole process. A big thank you!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge Joe
Thank you so much, Joe! You have saved me a heck of time and money! I have been driving around town looking for solutions, trying to buy tools like mini screw driver, etc.; the places I have been are Walmart, London drug, Canadian Tire, the Dollar Store, but with no luck. I have tried many small screw drivers, but it ends up a stripped screw stuck in my car fob. I was desperate until finding your solution here, you are brilliant! It works perfectly for me! I own two Honda cars, one is Pilot, and the other is Accord. I own them because Honda makes reliable cars; but Honda car key fob design just brainless. How many people have the right tool to unscrew those tiny screws? Every time it’s a struggle for me to replace my car key battery, just because the tiny screw on the key fob! It almost killed me this time until I found your solution and it works! Thanks again for your good work and sharing your experience!
Your welcome. Glad I could help. You are right, Honda has great research and development but they are not perfect. Glad I could share.
Heck yeah!, You are awesome. My Remote was stripped with a dead battery for years. I always had the replacement battery but couldn't get it in until now. Thank you so much!
This worked flawlessly. 2007 Civic screw was stuck, and the heat let the plastic bend pretty far without breaking. Thanks!
Was more than a little worried about this method but on the Honda forums they were heating up the screw to loosen the locktite crap Honda put on it, using a rubber band (didn't come close) or drilling which seemed ever more spooky. Your method worked like a charm on my fob. Nothing broke and back in business!!! Thanks a ton.
THANK YOU! I was having the worst time with my Honda key fob. Following your instructions, I was able to do it without any further problems.
Thanks for this hack. I had this problem with my key, and following your video I was able to change out the battery and put the key back together in a couple of minutes, with no problems.
Thank you so much buddy, this was very useful. I ordered batteries from amazon and when I was not able to unscrew my key, you became the savior.
Thanks Joe Ratz! 10 minutes of messing around with the screw as I slowly stripped it convinced me to see if there was another way to avoid a trip to the dealer. Saved me time and from getting increasingly aggravated!
I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for your video. I have been putting off this task for the past two years and looking at this video, I did it in less than two minutes. A Big thank you to you for posting this video and helping us.
Thank you Joe. I was able to change out two key fob batteries with your help. One screw was stripped out and I was able to replace the battery without breaking the plastic case.
Thanks much Joe! I stripped the screw and hadn't even noticed the notch to pry it open. My fob is a little different for my Honda Accord, but close enough.
Local Honda told me it would be $100.00 to replace battery with stripped screw fob...Liked, Shared and Subscribed. Great vid!!!
Worked like a charm! Thanks for the video Joe... very kind of you to share.
Thank you so much! Battery stopped working today, and when I got home the screw was stuck. Found your video and changed it out in about 5 Min. Thank you again!
I have Honda Civic key. It is slightly different but with fidgeting and similar maneuver to your great video managed to change the battery. One of the most helpful videos on youtube. Honda need to have a better design for the key.
Awesome. I did your advice, warmed it up like another commenter suggested. I put it in a clamp lengthwise, though to get a gap to open up and that was enough to get my foot in the floor. One of my buttons was sticking was the original problem, but that cleared right up after a little blowout/scrape. Happy to be able to unlock my door again.
Joe, this has to be one of the most helpful videos on You Tube. You're a great problem solver. Had a stripped screw on the key just as you described, didn't know what to do. Followed your instructions, worked like a charm. Thank you!
Can I get a "thumbs up"?
Joe Ratz More than a thumbs up!!! You are DA MAN! This vid saved me $$$. Followed your instructions, got er' done, bought the new battery, installed and it's now working like new!! Thank you Joe! Even with stripped screw, your instructions worked for me!
fist bump
Wow that's crazy thanks for making this video, I typed in RUclips how to get the screw out of a key and somehow it knew I was driving a Honda and My key looks exactly like this 🗝️
I followed step-by-step right along your video and it actually worked and didn't take me longer than 3 minutes on my second try without breaking it🎉
Cheers
Hi Joe, thank you for sharing the video. Had exact same problem this morning, was going to the local locksmith, but found your video. Problem solved in 10 minutes. Thank you kindly.
Joe, thank you. It is people like you who make the internet amazing!
Thank you so much for your help! My husband thought I wouldn't be able to do it, and thanks to you, I proved him wrong! You saved us a ton of money! Thanks again!
Haha, tail between his legs.
amazing video very easy to understand and very practical... God bless you in abundance man
Your video was PERFECT. Saved me buying two whole new keys for the cost of two batteries, THANK YOU for posting it!
All these years later, let me add my thanks to the list. The dealership was going to charge me $40+ to do it (battery+ new back + new front). So, thanks for this video. Took me about 5 - 10 minutes. Plus $5 for a new battery
All these years later.... I still appreciate the thank you comments. Cheers! Can I ask what country you are in?
@@Wordaroundthebonfire America
Thanks Joe . It took me 3 hours of trying before i got to your video. It saved me alot of time&money.
Thank you so much for creating this helpful video! Like many others, I found it in a moment of frustration and your instructions quickly solved my problem! 😊
Thanks for the tip! The cover came off but I snapped it back over the screw with the same set of pliers I tried unscrewing the screw with. Worked like a charm.
Thank you kind sir! It;s amazing how much the internet can help you. I stripped the screw and randomly googled the key words and the first video was yours. THANK YOU! It worked!
Your very welcome. Can I get a "thumbs up"?
Joe Ratz I second the sentiment. I was all prepped to have to pay to cut a new key, until I say this video. Then I simply did as you said, and poof! I love it!
Glad it worked for you.
Thank you so much for this! Both my fobs were dead and I didn’t want to spend $150 minimum to get one of them replaced at the dealership. I did exactly what you said and used a hair dryer on and off to keep the plastic malleable. Getting the inner case out was extremely difficult even though I have the smallest hands and fingers. It took me 25 minutes to fix the first fob but it works and I feel so accomplished. My dad will be amazed! I used a Swiss Army knife at the initial phase just to get an opening in the case and then used the screwdrivers. Once again, thank you so much!
Awesome. What part of the world are you from?
Helped abunch man about to give up stupid screw ... Thanks
Very helpful, thanks! Was dreading paying a ton of money for a new key and every hardware store told me they don't make screw breakers that small. I dinged up the side of key fob trying to get the screw driver into the slot but it worked and beats paying for a new key fob.
I had both keys stripped screws and managed to replace both batteries with this method. Thanks man!
This video is a lifesaver!! I thought I had to get a brand new key since I stripped the tiny little screw. But after a few tries of prying the case open (trying two different flat head screwdrivers, the smaller one worked), I was able to change out not only one but two key batteries! Thank you!!
Thanks , my plastic came off and the screw stayed in place, but new battery, plastic popped back together good to go
Thank you. You are a life and money saver. I have the same issue with the screw and have been driving with dead battery for over an year. Wish I saw this sooner😂
Awesome video! My screw was completely stripped and I couldn't get it out for the life of me. Fixed this in 10 minutes. Thank you!
You're a lifesaver! I needed to replace batteries in both keys. The Honda dealer in Niagara Falls Ontario wanted to charge me $36.00 to replace just the batteries. I ended up buying them both from The Source for $18.00. Then I used your idea and replaced them both myself. Thanks so much!
Thanks Joe - your video gave me the confidence to fix my key myself, rather than a £40 charge.
Thanks so much for this video. You completely saved the day! We had totally stripped the screw and thought it was hopeless! I did a search for “stripped screw on Honda key fab”...not expecting to find anything and then there you were! Thank you so much! And we didn’t even break the casing! 😉
What state or country are you in?
Joe Ratz we live in Idaho.
This Video originated in Minnesota. It fun watching it spread through the country and internationally too. Glad it turned out to be a helpful hit.
Super awesome hack. Called the dealership and found out a replacement was going to be $205. Took me 15 minutes to do this - well worth it.
I want to thank you for taking the time to make this video. I just replaced my battery on a stripped screw and followed your directions. You are the man.
Thanks for all the kind words folks, glad I could help. More advice, make sure your key is warm when you do this, the plastic is less prone to break if your key is little warm pocket temperature is good.
Thank you so much for the tip. I was about to drill the screw out, figured to check RUclips first . Only taken me 2 mins to open it up, replaced battery, no damages.
This helped me, thanks!
Thanks joe. You're a genius
Thanks for the awesome video! I warmed up the screw joint with a lighter before popping out the remote as the prevent any cracking.
Did this with the second key and the battery came back to life once I opened it up. Did not have to replace it.
Pp]
Thank you very much for this video. I had stripped screws in both my key and spare and didn't know what I was going to do. But by following your instructions I was able to replace the batteries in both keys easily. It was a bit hard to see what exactly was going on in the video but the explanation was very clear and was easy to follow. Also the demonstration on what happens if you separate the pieces too far was very helpful. But I'm also glad I read the comments as well as warming up the key also helped a great deal. Big thumbs up!
Thank you for this. I sent this video to my friend who, along with her dad, struggled for a few days trying to open up the fobs to her 14 yr old Honda. She spent 25 minutes with a hair dryer, but it worked! Thanks again for taking the time to record and upload this to RUclips.
Awesome. What part of the world are you from?