Removing the cups from your WeatherTech CupFone might seem difficult, but it is actually a very simple task. This process allows you to customize the fit for your vehicle’s specific cup holder, ensuring your phone stays secure. This guide provides easy steps and helpful tips to adjust your CupFone correctly without breaking it, so you can get the perfect fit every time.
Why You Might Need to Adjust Your CupFone Cups
The main reason to remove cups from your WeatherTech CupFone is to achieve a perfect, snug fit in your car’s cup holder. Since cup holders come in all shapes and sizes, WeatherTech designed the CupFone with a stackable cup system for maximum compatibility.
You might need to make an adjustment if you get a new car or if you are moving the device to a different vehicle. A loose fit can cause the phone holder to wobble or tip over during turns, while a fit that is too tight can make it difficult to place and remove.
Properly adjusting the cups ensures the entire unit is stable and secure. This not only protects your phone but also makes for a safer driving experience by keeping your device exactly where you expect it to be.
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Cups
Following these steps in order will help you avoid any damage and make the process go smoothly. It is best to work on a stable, flat surface like a table or countertop.
- Prepare Your Workspace: First, take the entire CupFone unit out of your vehicle’s cup holder. This gives you a better grip and prevents you from putting stress on the unit or your car’s interior. Place it on a clean, flat surface.
- Locate the Locking Tabs: Look closely at the base where the cups connect. You will see small interlocking tabs or slots that hold each cup piece in place. Make sure these grooves are free of any dirt or debris that could jam them.
- Grip and Twist Firmly: Hold the main body of the CupFone with one hand. With your other hand, get a firm grip on the cup you want to remove. Gently twist the cup counterclockwise while applying slight upward pressure. If you feel a lot of resistance, do not force it.
- Remove Additional Cups as Needed: If you need to remove more than one cup to get the right size, simply repeat the grip and twist process for each additional layer until you have the desired fit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Removing Cups
While the process is straightforward, a few common mistakes can lead to frustration or even damage the plastic components. Being aware of these pitfalls will help you get the job done right the first time.
Many people try to rush the process and end up applying too much force, which is the number one cause of broken tabs. It is a finesse-based task, not a strength-based one.
- Using Too Much Brute Force: The tabs are designed to lock and unlock with a firm twist, not by pulling them apart with force. Forcing them can snap the plastic.
- Using Metal Tools: Never use pliers, screwdrivers, or other tools to pry the cups apart. These will scratch, dent, or crack the plastic, ruining the CupFone.
- Not Cleaning the Unit First: If the CupFone is dirty, small bits of sand or debris can get lodged in the locking tabs, making them much harder to turn.
Taking a moment to assess the situation and use the correct technique will preserve the life of your device and save you from having to buy a replacement.
Tips and Tricks for a Stubborn, Stuck Cup
Sometimes, a cup can feel completely stuck, especially if it has not been adjusted in a long time. Temperature changes can also cause the plastic to expand and contract, making the fit tighter. Don’t worry, there are a few simple tricks you can use to loosen it without causing any damage.
Here is a quick troubleshooting guide for the most common issues.
| Problem | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|
| The cup is too slippery or hard to grip. | Use a pair of rubber kitchen gloves or a silicone jar opener to get significantly more traction and turning power. |
| The connection feels gritty or jammed. | Try to clean out the grooves with a soft brush or a can of compressed air to dislodge any hidden debris. |
| It still will not budge with a good grip. | Apply a tiny amount of silicone spray lubricant around the tabs. Let it sit for a minute before trying to twist again. |
Patience is key. If one method does not work, try another before resorting to force. A little lubricant or an improved grip is often all that is needed to solve the problem.
How to Clean and Reassemble Your CupFone Correctly
Once you have the cups separated, it is a perfect time to give them a quick cleaning. Wipe down each piece with a soft cloth. If there is sticky residue from spills, you can use a damp cloth with a bit of mild soap and water. Make sure all parts are completely dry before you put them back together.
To reassemble, simply align the tabs on one cup with the slots on the other. Press them together gently and twist clockwise until you feel them lock into place. Regularly cleaning your CupFone will prevent dirt buildup and make future adjustments much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions about Your CupFone
Do I need special tools to remove the cups?
No, you should not need any tools. The cups are designed to be removed by hand. If you need a better grip, rubber gloves or a jar opener are safe and effective options.
What if I break one of the tabs on my CupFone?
If a tab accidentally breaks, it is best to contact WeatherTech’s customer support. They can provide guidance on whether the part can be replaced or if a repair is possible.
Can I remove the cups while the CupFone is still in my car?
While it is technically possible, it is not recommended. Removing the unit from your car gives you better leverage and stability, which greatly reduces the risk of damaging the cups or your vehicle’s interior.
How do I know which way to twist the cups to remove them?
For most WeatherTech CupFone models, you will twist the cup counterclockwise to loosen and remove it. If you feel strong resistance, double-check that you are turning it in the correct direction.
Is it safe to use lubricants like WD-40?
You should avoid using oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they can damage certain types of plastic over time. If a lubricant is needed, a silicone-based spray is the safest choice for your CupFone.
