Experiencing issues with your 2021 Chevy Malibu Key Fob can be frustrating. If your key fob suddenly stops working, even after a battery replacement, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps and how to reprogram your key fob, potentially saving you a trip to the dealership.
Troubleshooting Your 2021 Chevy Malibu Key Fob
Before assuming a major issue, let’s cover the most common and simple fix:
- Battery Check: While you mentioned changing the battery, it’s worth double-checking. Ensure you used the correct type of battery and installed it properly. Sometimes, a faulty new battery or incorrect installation can be the culprit.
If a fresh, correctly installed battery doesn’t solve the problem, your key fob might need reprogramming.
Reprogramming Your 2021 Chevy Malibu Key Fob
The following steps outline how to reprogram your 2021 Chevy Malibu key fob without needing recognized transmitters. This process can take around 30 minutes and requires all key fobs you wish to program to be present.
Important Note: This feature may not be available in Canada.
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Prepare the Vehicle: Ensure your Chevy Malibu is turned off and all key fobs to be programmed are with you.
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Initiate Programming Mode:
- Locate and remove the key lock cylinder cap on the driver’s side door handle.
- Insert the vehicle key from your key fob into the exposed key lock cylinder.
- Turn the key counterclockwise five times within 10 seconds.
- The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT”.
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Wait and Repeat:
- Wait for 10 minutes until the DIC displays “PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN”. Then, press the ENGINE START/STOP button.
- The DIC will again show “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT”.
- Repeat this 10-minute wait and ENGINE START/STOP button press two more times (for a total of three times). After the third repetition, previously programmed key fobs will no longer work.
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Program New Key Fobs:
- The DIC should now display “READY FOR REMOTE # 1”.
- Place the new key fob into the transmitter pocket, located inside the center console storage area, with the buttons facing the rear of the vehicle.
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button. The DIC will indicate when the key fob is successfully programmed and ready for the next one.
- Remove the key fob from the pocket and press the lock or unlock button to confirm.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (If Necessary): Repeat steps 4-6 for any additional key fobs you need to program.
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Exit Programming Mode: Once all key fobs are programmed, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
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Final Steps:
- Return the key back into your key fob.
- Replace the key lock cylinder cap on the driver’s door handle.
By following these steps, you should be able to reprogram your 2021 Chevy Malibu key fob. If you continue to experience issues, it’s recommended to consult with a certified GM dealer for further diagnosis and assistance. They can provide expert service and ensure your key fob and vehicle systems are functioning correctly.
