Losing or damaging your car key fob can be a frustrating experience, often accompanied by the unwelcome prospect of expensive dealership programming fees. If you own a 2013 Chevy Malibu LT without push-button start, you’re in luck! Programming a new key fob yourself is a straightforward process that can save you both time and money. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly regain full access to your vehicle using a new 2013 Chevy Malibu Lt Key Fob.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to verify that the replacement key fob is compatible with your car. The most important factor is the FCC ID. This identification number ensures the key fob operates on the correct frequency to communicate with your vehicle’s system. Locate your original key fob and examine its side. You’ll likely need a magnifying glass to clearly see the FCC ID, which, for many 2013 Chevy Malibu LT models, is OHT01060512. Make sure any new 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob you purchase has the same FCC ID to guarantee compatibility.
FCC ID Location on Chevy Key Fob
Once you have confirmed the correct FCC ID and acquired a new, uncut 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob, the next step is to get the key blade laser-cut. While dealerships can handle this, their pricing can be significantly higher. Independent locksmiths often offer more affordable laser key cutting services. In fact, many locksmiths are equipped to cut your key quickly and efficiently. You can bring your original key (even if broken) to a locksmith as a template. As an example, one owner found a locksmith in Arlington, TX, who cut two keys for just $55 in about 10 minutes. It’s always worth calling local locksmiths to compare prices, and you might even find a dealership that offers competitive key cutting rates.
With your new 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob laser-cut and ready, programming it to your car is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps carefully:
- Insert and Turn Original Key: Place your original, working key into the ignition. Turn the key to the “ON” position. This is the position right before you would start the engine – where the dashboard lights illuminate. Do not start the car.
- Wait and Turn Off: Leave the key in the “ON” position for 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, turn the key back to the “OFF” position and remove it from the ignition.
- Insert New Key and Turn On: Immediately insert your new, uncut and now cut 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob into the ignition. Turn this new key to the “ON” position, again without starting the engine.
- Wait and Turn Off (New Key): Wait for another 10 seconds with the new key in the “ON” position. After 10 seconds, turn the new key to the “OFF” position and remove it from the ignition.
That’s all there is to it! Your new 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob should now be programmed to your vehicle and ready to use. This programming method is reported to allow for up to 10 key fobs to be programmed to a single vehicle, which is far more than most drivers will ever need.
It’s important to note that this procedure adds a new key fob without deleting any previously programmed keys. If you are concerned about a lost key, you may need to consult a dealership or locksmith for key deletion services.
For users interested in programming key fobs for Chevy Malibu models with push-button start or for visual instructions, resources like this guide offer additional information and instructions for various scenarios. By following these steps, you can easily program your 2013 Chevy Malibu LT key fob and avoid unnecessary expenses.
