Yeti handles come off and go back on with basic tools in about 15 minutes

Yeti cooler handles attach with either screws or rivets, depending on your model and when it was made. Screw-attached handles unscrew and screw back in by hand or with a Phillips head screwdriver. Riveted handles require drilling out the old rivet and installing a new one with a rivet tool or by taking the cooler to a hardware store or repair shop. Most people can do the screw version at home; the rivet version is faster at a shop but doable yourself if you have a rivet gun.

The handle itself costs between $20 and $50 depending on your cooler size and color. Replacement handles are sold directly by Yeti and through outdoor retailers. You do not need to buy a whole new cooler—the handle is a standalone part.

Key Takeaways

  • Check whether your handle is held on by screws or rivets by looking at the attachment points on the cooler lid.
  • Screw-attached handles unscrew by hand or with a Phillips head screwdriver and take about five minutes to remove and replace.
  • Riveted handles require drilling out the old rivet and installing a new one, which takes a drill, a rivet gun or tool, and about 15 minutes.
  • Replacement handles are sold by Yeti and outdoor retailers; measure your cooler size before ordering to get the right fit.
  • If you do not have a rivet gun or drill, a hardware store, sporting goods shop, or Yeti service center can do the work for you.

Identify whether your handle is screwed or riveted

Look at the two points where the handle attaches to the cooler lid. If you see a screw head at each attachment point, your handle is screw-attached. If you see a smooth metal bump with no slot or indentation, it is riveted. Rivets are permanent fasteners that look like a small dome or mushroom cap.

Screw-attached handles are standard on most newer Yeti coolers. Riveted handles appear on older models and some specialty sizes. If you are unsure, take a photo and contact Yeti customer service or check your cooler's manual.

Removing and replacing a screw-attached handle

Locate the two screws holding the handle to the lid. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to turn each screw counterclockwise until it comes free. Keep the screws in a small container so you do not lose them. Lift the old handle straight up and away from the cooler.

Position the new handle so the screw holes line up with the holes on the lid. Insert the screws by hand first to start the threads, then tighten them with your screwdriver. Turn clockwise until snug—do not over-tighten, as this can strip the plastic or crack the lid. Test the handle by pulling up on it firmly to make sure it is find.

Drilling out and replacing a riveted handle

A rivet is a metal pin that is hammered or compressed on both ends to hold two pieces together permanently. To remove it, you need to drill it out. Use a drill bit that matches the rivet diameter—usually 3/16 inch or 1/4 inch on Yeti coolers. Wear safety glasses. Position the drill bit in the center of the rivet and drill straight through until the rivet head separates from the cooler. Repeat for the second rivet. The old handle will then lift away.

Install the new handle using a rivet gun (also called a rivet tool) and new rivets of the same size. Insert the rivet into the gun, position the handle so the holes line up, and squeeze the gun handle to compress the rivet. The rivet will expand and lock the handle in place. Repeat for the second attachment point. If you do not own a rivet gun, most hardware stores will do this work for $10 to $20, or you can take the cooler to a Yeti service center.

Ordering the correct replacement handle

Yeti makes different handle sizes for different cooler models. A handle for a Roadie 24 will not fit a Tundra 65. Before ordering, identify your cooler model—it is printed on the lid or bottom. Common sizes are Roadie, Tundra 35, Tundra 45, Tundra 65, and Tundra 75.

Visit Yeti's official website or call their customer service line to confirm the correct handle for your model. You can also buy replacement handles through REI, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and other outdoor retailers. Handles come in the standard Yeti colors (white, tan, seafoam, navy) and sometimes limited edition colors. Shipping usually takes three to seven business days.

Common mistakes when replacing handles

The most common error is over-tightening screws, which cracks the plastic around the attachment point or strips the screw hole. Tighten until snug, then stop. If a screw spins without tightening, the hole is stripped and you may need to use a slightly larger screw or fill the hole with epoxy and re-drill.

When drilling out rivets, people often drill off-center or at an angle, which enlarges the hole and makes it hard to install the new rivet. Drill straight down through the center of the rivet. If the new hole is too large, use a slightly larger rivet or have a shop do the work. Do not use a screw in a hole meant for a rivet—the screw will not hold under the stress of lifting a full cooler.

When to take your cooler to a shop instead

If your cooler has riveted handles and you do not own a drill or rivet gun, a hardware store, sporting goods retailer, or Yeti service center can replace the handle for you. This usually costs $15 to $40 in labor plus the price of the new handle. Call ahead to confirm they do this work and ask how long it takes—most shops can do it while you wait.

If you drill out a rivet and the hole becomes too large, or if a screw hole is stripped, a shop can also repair this. Bring your cooler and the new handle, and they will install it correctly. This is worth the cost if you are not confident drilling or using a rivet gun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different brand handle on my Yeti cooler?

No. Yeti handles are sized and shaped specifically for Yeti cooler lids. A handle from another brand will not fit the attachment holes or will not align properly. Always use a Yeti replacement handle made for your specific cooler model.

What size screwdriver do I need for screw-attached handles?

A Phillips head screwdriver, size #2, works for most Yeti coolers. This is the standard size sold at any hardware store. If the screw does not fit, try a #1 Phillips, but #2 is correct for nearly all models.

Do I need to drain my cooler before replacing the handle?

No. The handle attaches to the lid only, so you do not need to empty the cooler or drain water. If your cooler is full, just be careful not to tip it while you are working on the handle.

How long does a replacement handle last?

A Yeti handle lasts as long as the cooler itself if it is installed correctly and not abused. Handles wear out from repeated heavy use, exposure to sun, or impact damage. Most people replace a handle only once or twice over the life of the cooler, if at all.

Can I buy just the screws or rivets without buying a whole new handle?

Yes. Yeti sells replacement screws and rivets separately through their website and customer service. If your handle is still intact but the fasteners are loose or damaged, this is a cheaper fix than replacing the entire handle.