Is your 2015 Chevy Cruze key fob broken, cracked, or malfunctioning? Don’t worry, replacing it is easier than you might think! This step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing your 2015 Chevy Cruze key fob, allowing you to restore full functionality without a trip to the dealership. As long as the metal blade of your original key is still in good condition, you can use this guide to replace a damaged key fob casing and get back on the road quickly.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- Small Hammer: For gently tapping the punch.
- 1/16″ Punch: To push out the retaining pin.
While a gunsmithing punch set is ideal, any small hammer and a 1/16″ punch will work just fine. You can easily find a 1/16″ punch online if you don’t already have one.
Parts Required
To complete this replacement, you will need a new key fob casing. Make sure to order the correct one for your 2015 Chevy Cruze. Here are a couple of options:
- Replacement 4-Button OEM Cruze Key Fob: This is suitable for Cruze models with standard remote functions. (Available on Amazon.com)
- Replacement 5-Button OEM Cruze Key Fob: If your Cruze has remote start, you’ll likely need this 5-button version. (Available on Amazon.com)
It’s crucial to use an OEM replacement key fob to ensure compatibility and proper function with your 2015 Chevy Cruze. You won’t need to get the new key blade cut, as you will be using your existing blade.
Step-by-Step 2015 Chevy Cruze Key Fob Replacement Procedure
Whether your 2015 Chevy Cruze key fob is cracked, buttons are broken, or the casing is damaged in any way, the replacement process is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Accessing the Retaining Pin
Locate the small retaining pin that holds the key blade to the key fob body on your broken 2015 Chevy Cruze key.
Place the key fob on a firm surface, ensuring the retaining pin is accessible. Using your 1/16″ punch and hammer, gently tap the pin to begin pushing it out.
Step 2: Removing the Old Key Blade
Continue tapping the retaining pin until it is removed completely. You might need to apply firm but controlled taps. Once the pin is out, you should be able to carefully remove the metal key blade from the damaged key fob.
Step 3: Installing the Old Blade into the New Fob
Now, take your new 2015 Chevy Cruze Key Fob Replacement. You’ll need to remove the retaining pin from the new key fob as well, using the same punch and hammer technique.
Once the pin is removed from the new fob, carefully insert the metal blade from your old key fob into the new casing. Align the holes and re-insert the retaining pin. You might be able to push the pin back in by hand or gently tap it with the hammer – the punch may not be necessary for re-insertion.
Step 4: Programming Your New Key Fob
Programming the new key fob to your 2015 Chevy Cruze is a simple process that you can do yourself without any special tools:
- Start your Chevy Cruze using your spare, working key. Let the engine run for a few seconds.
- Turn off the ignition and remove the working key within 5 seconds.
- Immediately insert the new key fob into the ignition and start your car.
Turn off the engine and test the buttons on your new 2015 Chevy Cruze key fob to ensure they are working correctly. In most cases, the key fob will program on the first try.
Special Note for Single Key Owners
If you only have one key for your 2015 Chevy Cruze and don’t have a spare to start the car with, you can still perform this replacement. Here’s how:
- Carefully remove the retaining pin from your old, broken key fob and detach the key blade, as described in the steps above.
- Take only the metal blade of your original key and insert it into the ignition to start your Chevy Cruze.
- While the car is running, press the “unlock” button on both your old key fob (the part with the buttons) and the new key fob. This ensures both are in the ‘open’ or ‘swing’ position.
- Turn off the car, quickly remove the old key fob portion from the key blade (leaving the blade in the ignition).
- Immediately attach the new key fob portion to the key blade still in the ignition.
- Start the car again with the new key fob attached to the blade.
- If the key blade is difficult to remove from the ignition after programming, use pliers to gently pull it out.
- Finally, assemble your original key blade into the new key fob casing and secure it with the retaining pin as outlined in the procedure above.
By following these steps, you can easily replace your broken 2015 Chevy Cruze key fob and regain full remote functionality. This DIY repair saves you time and money compared to dealership replacements, getting you back on the road with a fully functional key.
