This wikiHow teaches you how to disassemble a classic Xbox 360 case. The disassembly process for the classic Xbox 360 is different from the Xbox 360 Slim or Xbox 360 E. You should be aware that disassembling the Xbox 360 will void the warranty.
Step
Step 1. Prepare the necessary equipment
You will need the following tools to unlock Xbox 360:
- Flat screwdriver/minus
- Torx T12 screwdriver
Step 2. Disconnect all cables connected to the Xbox 360 console
The console must be completely free of cables or devices, including external storage, HDMI/audio cables, and charging cables.
If there is a disc in the console, remove it and store it in the box before disconnecting the cables in the console
Step 3. Ground yourself before disassembling the Xbox 360
Static electricity can permanently damage the Xbox circuit. So make sure you apply proper grounding techniques (eg touching metal) before working.
Step 4. Disassemble the faceplate
Insert your finger into the USB port, which is to the right of the power button, and pull the faceplate towards you. Pull it tight enough as the Xbox 360 doesn't have the fragile and sensitive electronics behind its faceplate, unlike previous models.
Step 5. Remove the end grille
This is the gray grid on the left and right ends of the Xbox 360 case. You can loosen it using one of the following methods:
- Insert a large, bent paper clip through each of the holes in the top row of air ducts on the Xbox 360 case, and disassemble each time. Later, the clip holding the grid will open.
- Insert a flat screwdriver into the junction between the grille and the console case, then move the screwdriver around the grid, and pry it apart. This method is more time-saving, but the lattice retaining clips are at risk of breaking.
- If your Xbox 360 has a hard drive, remove it first.
Step 6. Take out the end grid
Simply pull the end of the grille out of the Xbox 360 case and set it aside.
Step 7. Open the front clip of the case
There are four clips on the front of the Xbox 360 that hold the top half and bottom half of the case together; pull the top clip towards you while holding the bottom clip in and release it. These clips are in the following locations:
- One on both sides of the disc tray
- One to the right of the power button
- One on the far right side of the Xbox 360. front
Step 8. Unscrew the back of the case
Flip the Xbox 360 so that its back is facing you. Place your hand into the space to the right of where the grid was previously located, and press up and down on the joint half of the case while inserting the tip of a flat screwdriver into the small gap in the back.
In total, there are 7 small slits along the back of the console
Step 9. Remove the bottom of the case
Flip the Xbox 360 over so the top is facing down, then pull the bottom case up and away from the Xbox 360. You can now see the metal part of the Xbox 360 case.
Step 10. Unscrew the screws holding the top of the case so it doesn't move
Use a Torx screwdriver; if you see a screw that doesn't fit the screwdriver, don't try to open it as it won't be necessary to disassemble the console. There are a total of six screws in the metal part of the case that need to be removed:
- Two on the right side
- Two on the left side
- One in each circle that bends in the middle.
- Make sure you store the screws in a plastic bag or similar safe so they don't get lost.
Step 11. Turn the console over again
The metal side should be facing down, and the front of the console (the power button side) should be facing you.
Step 12. Release the eject button
It is located on the left side of the front of the console. Gently slide a flat screwdriver under the green tape on the left side of the face of the console, then pry it out. The eject button will release.
Step 13. Lift the top of the case off the Xbox 360
The case should come off easily, and you should now be able to see the components inside the console.
