Key fobs provide convenient access and security for your 2013 Chevrolet Cruze. Whether you need to replace a lost or damaged key fob, or simply want to add an extra one, programming it yourself can save you time and money. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for programming your 2013 Chevy Cruze key fob, covering various scenarios to ensure you get back on the road quickly.
For situations where all keys are lost, especially if you have a flip key or standard key, professional locksmith services are necessary due to the complexity of the process.
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Find a Qualified Automotive Locksmith: Start by locating a reputable automotive locksmith in your area. You can search online or use a directory to find one specializing in key fob programming for Chevrolet vehicles.
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Consider On-Site Service vs. Locksmith Visit: If your 2013 Chevy Cruze is drivable, it might be more cost-effective to drive to the locksmith’s location. Mobile locksmith services are available, but they may incur additional charges for travel.
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Professional Programming Procedure: The locksmith will utilize specialized computer diagnostic tools to connect to your vehicle’s onboard system. This equipment allows them to securely program a new key fob to work with your 2013 Chevy Cruze.
If you possess at least one already programmed key (either a flip key or a standard key) and wish to program an additional key yourself, follow these steps:
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Initiate Programming Sequence: Insert your existing, working key into the ignition. Turn the ignition key to the “ON/RUN” position, ensuring the engine does not start, but the electrical systems are active.
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Cycle Ignition and Remove Key: Turn the ignition key back to the “LOCK/OFF” position, and then remove the key from the ignition.
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Program New Key: Within five seconds of removing the original key, insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition. Turn this new key to the “ON/RUN” position. Keep an eye on the security light on your dashboard; it should turn off once the new key is successfully programmed.
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Repeat for Additional Keys: If you intend to program more than one additional key, simply repeat steps 1 through 3 for each new key you want to program.
For 2013 Chevy Cruze models equipped with a smart key system (keyless access vehicles), different procedures apply, particularly if all smart keys are lost. Note that the following “all keys lost” procedure for smart keys is not available in Canada and may take around 30 minutes to complete. Ensure your vehicle is off and all key fobs you wish to program are with you.
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Enter Key Learn Mode: Take the vehicle key blade from your new smart key fob and insert it into the key lock cylinder located on the exterior driver’s side door handle. Turn the key to the “unlock” position five times within a 10-second timeframe. Observe the Driver Information Center (DIC) display in your dashboard. It should display “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.”
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Wait and Press Ignition (Repeat Three Times): Wait for 10 minutes. After this period, the DIC should change to display “PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN.” Once you see this message, press the ignition button. The DIC will revert to showing “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.”
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Repeat Waiting Process: Repeat step 2 two more times. After the third cycle, all previously programmed key fobs will be erased from the system’s memory. Any remaining key fobs that you wish to use with your vehicle will need to be programmed in the subsequent steps. The DIC should now display “READY FOR REMOTE # 1.”
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Access Transmitter Slot: Locate the small storage area next to the accessory power outlet on your center console, towards the front. Remove the plastic trim piece covering this area to reveal the transmitter slot. Extend the key blade of your smart key fob by pressing the release button, and insert this key blade into the transmitter slot.
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Program First Transmitter: Press the ignition button. Once the transmitter is successfully programmed, the DIC will indicate it is ready to program the next transmitter.
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Program Additional Transmitters (If Needed): Remove the transmitter from the slot and press the “unlock” button on the fob to confirm. If you have more key fobs to program, repeat steps 4 through 6 for each one. After programming all desired key fobs, press and hold the ignition button for approximately 10 seconds to exit the programming mode. Finally, replace the plastic trim piece on the center console storage area.
If you already have a working smart key for your 2013 Chevy Cruze and wish to program an additional smart key, use the following procedure. This method is applicable for keyless access vehicles when you have at least one recognized remote. Ensure the vehicle is off and all remotes (both existing and new) are with you.
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Access Transmitter Slot (Recognized Remote): Remove the plastic trim piece to access the transmitter slot in the center console, as described earlier. Extend the key blade of your recognized smart key fob and insert it into the transmitter slot.
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Enter Key Learn Mode (New Remote): Take the vehicle key blade from the new smart key fob and insert it into the key lock cylinder on the driver’s door. Turn the key to the “unlock” position five times within 10 seconds. The DIC should display “READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, or 5”.
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Place New Transmitter in Slot: Remove the recognized key from the transmitter slot and immediately place the new transmitter into the slot.
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Program New Transmitter: Press the ignition button. When the new transmitter is successfully programmed, the DIC will indicate readiness for programming the next transmitter.
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Finalize and Exit: Remove the transmitter from the pocket and press the “unlock” button on the transmitter. To program additional transmitters, repeat steps 3 through 5. Once you have programmed all desired remotes, press and hold the ignition button for 10 seconds to exit the programming mode. Replace the plastic trim piece on the small storage area.
By following these instructions, you can successfully program a 2013 Chevy Cruze key fob, whether you are adding a key or replacing a lost one. Remember to consult a professional locksmith if you encounter any difficulties or if you have lost all your keys and have a standard or flip key type.
