How to fix a key fob?

RedXIV

Hi folks!

Hoping to get some advice here, I've a key fob like this for my car. The button is supposed to release the key so pops out 180 degrees and locks into place unless the button is pressed again and then you're free to return it to the fob, but at the moment the button doesn't seem to release the key, or more accurately, the key feels like it should be applying pressure to leave the fob until the button is pressed but the key currently isn't doing that. Pressing the button will allow the key to barely move and instead I'm trying to grab a tiny piece of it to pull it out. Brought it to a watch maker as the components look about that size but he said he wouldn't really know what to do. I wouldn't mind taking a stab at it myself but I've no idea what I'm doing, and I've been unable to open it up at all, other than to change the battery in the past.

Has anyone come across this before? Any resources on how to fix this?

Gregor Samsa

Sounds like there's something wrong with the release catch or spring in the hinge mechanism.

That's a Toyota key? There's a guide to dismantling it here. The key (excuse the pun) is a hidden screw behind the Toyota logo:

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Toyota+Key+Shell+Replacement/142543?srsltid=AfmBOoprgPUEnBtrvLIMrZf9xK09r6Bd2om2LpPhQYdnhyJqfd-cKWKh

Generic video about fixing the spring mechanism here (uses a Hyundai key, but the concept should be fairly universal): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3qwG-iara0

RedXIV

you absolute hero, I couldn't figure out how to dismantle the key at all, the missing screw is the solution! Thank you!