Lost or need a spare key fob for your 2013 Chevy Malibu without push-button start? Don’t want to pay dealership prices for a replacement? You’re in luck! Programming a new key fob for your 2013 Malibu can be done easily at home with a few simple steps. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get back on the road quickly and affordably.
Finding the Right 2013 Malibu Key Fob
Before you begin, it’s crucial to ensure you purchase a compatible key fob. For 2013 Chevy Malibu models without push-button start, you’ll need a key fob that matches the correct specifications, most importantly the FCC ID.
The FCC ID for the 2013 Malibu Key Fob (non-push button start) is OHT01060512. This number ensures that the key fob is compatible with your vehicle’s security system. You can verify this FCC ID on your original key fob. Look on the side of your existing key fob; you may need a magnifying glass to clearly see the numbers. Purchasing a key fob with the correct FCC ID is essential for successful programming. You can find replacement key fobs online from retailers like Amazon, ensuring you check for this FCC ID before purchase.
FCC ID location on a Chevy key fob, crucial for 2013 Malibu key fob compatibility
Laser Cutting Your New Key
Once you have your compatible key fob, the next step is to get the key blade laser cut. The physical key portion needs to be cut to match your car’s ignition.
- Locksmiths vs. Dealers: Dealerships often charge a premium for laser key cutting, sometimes quoting exorbitant prices. Local locksmiths are generally a more affordable option. Call around to both dealers and local locksmiths to compare prices. Mention that you need a laser cut key for a 2013 Chevy Malibu.
- Finding a Locksmith: Searching online for “laser key cutting locksmith near me” can help you locate local services. Some locksmiths specialize in automotive keys and may offer better deals.
- Cost Expectation: Prices can vary, but you can expect to pay somewhere in the range of $50-$75 for laser cutting. As mentioned in the original post, you might even find locksmiths offering deals for cutting multiple keys.
Take your new, uncut key fob and your original key to the locksmith. They will use your original key as a template to laser cut the new key blade. This process usually takes only a few minutes.
Programming Your 2013 Malibu Key Fob: Step-by-Step
With your new key cut, you’re ready to program it to work with your 2013 Chevy Malibu. This programming procedure is straightforward and can be done in your driveway without any special tools.
Here’s how to program your 2013 Malibu key fob:
- Insert Original Key and Turn to “ON”: 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 up, but the engine is not running.
- Wait 10 Seconds, Then Turn “OFF” and Remove: Leave the original key in the “ON” position for 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, turn the key back to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the ignition.
- Immediately Insert New Key and Turn to “ON”: Within a few seconds of removing the original key, insert your new, uncut and unprogrammed key fob into the ignition. Turn this new key to the “ON” position, just like you did with the original key.
- Wait 10 Seconds, Then Turn “OFF” and Remove: Again, leave the new key in the “ON” position for 10 seconds. After 10 seconds, turn the key to the “OFF” position and remove it.
That’s it! Your new 2013 Malibu key fob should now be programmed to your vehicle. Test the key fob buttons to ensure they lock and unlock your doors and function correctly. You can program up to 10 keys to your Chevy Malibu using this procedure, but hopefully, you won’t need that many!
This programming method does not erase any previously programmed keys from your car’s computer, it simply adds the new key fob to the system.
For models with push-button start or for alternative programming instructions, you can refer to resources like this blog post which offers instructions for various scenarios.
By following these steps, you can easily and affordably program a new 2013 Malibu key fob, saving yourself time and money compared to dealership services.
