Changing Oakley Fuel Cell Lenses: A Step-By-Step Guide

Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses are known for their modern design and sturdy frames, but like all sunglasses, the lenses can get scratched, damaged, or simply wear out. Luckily, replacing them is a simple process that can extend the life of your shades and refresh your vision. In this guide, you'll learn the steps to replace your Fuel Cell lenses with ease. Before you begin, make sure you have a clean workspace and microfiber cloth to avoid any scratches during the process. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you'll be able to swap out your lenses in no time and get back to enjoying your favourite pair of sunglasses.

How to Change Oakley Fuel Cell Lenses

Identify your Oakley model

Oakley uses both names and numbers to distinguish its different models. The names are more well-known to the general public and are often located on the inside arm of the sunglasses. The other information can be slightly hidden further down the temple arm. Even if you think you know which frame you have, it's good to double-check the model information. This is because Oakley has frame models that have been around for years and undergone subtle changes along the way.

The older Oakley models have a format of NN-NNN. For example, the model number is 03-365. You may also see the word "five" embossed in the frame. If you have this frame, you may know it as the Oakley Fives 4.0 frame.

The newer Oakleys follow the format OONNNN or OXNNNN. A lot of people mistakenly read the start of the model number as zeros, but the OO or OX refers to the brand Oakley. The numbers following are the model number. For the frame Forehand, the Oakley model number is OO9179. The 26 after the dash is the colour code, not part of the model number.

The model number and serial number can be found on the earstems or temples of your eyewear, typically on the left earstem. On recent Oakleys, the model number will start with “OO” followed by a series of numbers. To the right of the model number, you may also find additional numbers that indicate the size of your sunglasses, including the lens width, bridge width, and temple length.

The Oakley logo is also an important identifier. The authentic Oakley logo is presented on the temple or packaging. The symbol "O" is usually present on the top of the hard case or stitched to the corner of the pouch. The Oakley logo is also visible on the temple and comes in two variations: a simple "O" sign embedded into the frame, or the "Oakley" sign. Check if the "O" letter shape matches the official logo. If it’s painted on, or missing, it’s highly unlikely that you have an authentic pair of Oakleys.

Prepare your workspace

To prepare your workspace for changing your Oakley Fuel Cell lenses, start by gathering all the necessary tools and materials. You will need your new Oakley Fuel Cell replacement lenses, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and a flat workspace.

It is important to ensure your workspace is clean and clear of any debris or objects that could potentially scratch your lenses or frames. Place a microfiber cloth on your flat surface to provide a soft, scratch-resistant work area. This will help prevent any scratches to your lenses during the replacement process.

Before beginning the lens replacement, make sure your hands are clean. This will help you avoid accidentally smudging your lenses or frames with fingerprints or natural oils from your skin.

It is also recommended to have your sunglasses case nearby. This will provide a safe place to store your Oakley Fuel Cells once you have finished the replacement process, protecting them from scratches or damage when not in use.

By taking the time to prepare your workspace, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free lens replacement process for your Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses.

Remove the old lenses

To remove the old lenses from your Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses, start by placing a microfiber cloth on a flat surface to prevent any scratches during the process. Ensure your hands are clean to avoid smudging the lenses or frames.

Now, firmly grip the top and bottom of the frame, making sure you have a secure but gentle hold. Using your thumbs, apply gentle pressure to the backside of the lens, close to the outer corner, which is furthest from the nose bridge. Push the lens outwards, while gently pulling the frame apart with your fingers. Even pressure is key, and the lens should begin to pop out from the groove. Take your time with this step to avoid stressing the frame.

Once the lens starts to come out, carefully use your fingers to pull it free from the frame. Repeat this process for the other lens. It is recommended to do this over a soft surface, like a bed, so that the lenses don't go flying out and get scratched if you drop them.

With the old lenses removed, you can now clean your Oakley Fuel Cell frames using a microfiber cloth. Remove any dust, dirt, or oils that may have built up over time.

Clean the frame

To clean the frame of your Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses, you should first remove the lenses. The lenses are held in place by the durable O Matter™ frame, which has some flexibility but requires a precise technique to remove the lenses without causing any damage. Hold the sunglasses firmly by the top and bottom of the frame, ensuring a secure but gentle grip. Using your thumbs, press on the backside of the lens near the outer corner (furthest from the nose bridge). Push the lens outwards while pulling the frame slightly apart with your fingers, applying even pressure. The lens should begin to pop out from the groove—take your time to avoid stressing the frame. Once the lens starts to come out, use your fingers to carefully pull it free, and repeat this process for the other lens.

With the old lenses removed, you can now clean the frame. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the frames, removing any dust, dirt, or oils that may have accumulated over time. This step ensures your new lenses will be installed in a clean, debris-free environment.

Microfiber cloths are ideal for cleaning your Oakley Fuel Cell frames and lenses, as they are gentle and effective at removing smudges and dust without causing scratches. You can also use lens cleaner designed for eyewear to maintain optimal clarity, but avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the lens coating. Oakley's sunglasses cases and cleaning kits are great options for a full cleaning solution.

By taking the time to clean your Oakley Fuel Cell frames, you not only create a pristine environment for your new lenses but also ensure that your sunglasses continue to look sleek and modern.

Install the new lenses

Now that the old lenses have been removed and the frame is clean, it's time to install the new Oakley Fuel Cell lenses. This process is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps.

Firstly, ensure you have the correct replacement lenses for the Fuel Cell model. Oakley Fuel Cell replacement lenses are readily available and come in a variety of options, including polarized, mirrored, and non-polarized lenses. It is also important to have a clean workspace and clean hands to avoid any smudging of the new lenses.

To begin the installation, hold the new lens with the concave side facing inward. Start by aligning the lens with the groove near the nose bridge of the frame. Gently pop the lens into this groove, ensuring it is securely in place. You can use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure to the lens, working your way from the nose bridge outward toward the outer edges. A slight "click" should be audible, indicating the lens is locked into the correct position.

For the other lens, repeat this process. Ensure both lenses are properly aligned and secure within the frame. It is important to take your time and apply even pressure to avoid stressing the frame. Once both new lenses are in place, carefully inspect them for proper alignment and ensure there are no gaps between the lenses and the frame.

Finally, give the lenses a gentle clean with a microfiber cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges that may have occurred during the installation. Now your Oakley Fuel Cell sunglasses are ready to wear and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions