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How to Take Apart an XBox 360 Case

Xbox 360 video game consoles are manufactured by Microsoft and encased in a metal and plastic outer shell for protection against environmental and accidental damage. Opening your Xbox 360 console case voids the Microsoft manufacturer warranty, so do not open the console if you expect to send in the console for repairs or replacement. The process of opening your Xbox 360 console (especially the first time) may be time-consuming and frustrating, so make sure you have at least 45 minutes available.

Things You'll Need

Torx screwdriver (size 10)
Xbox 360 console
paperclip

Instructions

How to Take Apart an Xbox 360 Case
- 1
  
  Disconnect all Xbox 360 controllers and hardware/cables before opening your console.
  
  Unplug your Xbox 360 from the TV and completely disconnect all power cords, audio/visual cables, controller plugs, and the console's removable hard drive. Remove the Xbox 360 faceplate from the front of the machine and carefully pry off the gray-colored plastic side panels from the machine (they will come off with a firm pull).
- 2
  
  Your paperclip will open the rear of the console's exterior plastic shell.
  
  Unfold your paperclip so it is a long, skinny piece of metal. The rear of your Xbox 360 is sealed via interlocking "teeth" that run the length on the console from the power connector to the AV/HDMI ports. Insert the paperclip into each of the tiny holes along the seam of the plastic shell. Each time a plastic "tooth" is unlocked you will hear a loud clicking sound. Unlock all "teeth" (there are approximately 10 along the rear seam) and the back section of the Xbox 360 shell will come apart easily. Unlock the front section of the Xbox 360 shell by pushing firmly on each of the three plastic connector tabs on the front, located underneath the faceplate you already removed. The plastic tabs on the front of the console unlock easily with a firm push from your screwdriver.
- 3
  
  Your Torx size 10 screwdriver will open the last section of the Xbox 360's case.
  
  Remove the plastic bottom of the Xbox 360's shell now that all plastic tabs and "teeth" have been unlocked. It should slide off easily with a gentle pull. The interior metal casing will be exposed and you will be able to unscrew the several size 10 Torx screws that seal the Xbox 360 case. There are approximately 15 screws on the 360's underside, all of which are size 10. Unscrew each screw with your Torx size 10 screwdriver and the top plastic and metal half of the Xbox 360 case will slide off easily. Your Xbox 360 will then be completely taken apart and open. Make sure to replace all screws, plastic casing, and hardware components before reassembling and powering on your Xbox 360.

Xbox 360