Is your Chevy Cruze key fob malfunctioning, specifically the buttons? A common issue for Chevy Cruze owners, especially those with models from 2011 to 2016, is wear and tear on the key fob buttons. Whether your buttons are cracked, unresponsive, or completely broken, replacing them is a straightforward DIY task. This guide will walk you through a simple Chevy Cruze Key Fob Button Replacement process, allowing you to restore your key fob to full functionality without needing to visit a dealership.
This tutorial is designed for anyone experiencing issues with their Chevy Cruze key fob buttons. As long as the metal key blade itself is undamaged and you have at least one working key fob, you can easily perform this replacement. Let’s get started on fixing your chevy cruze key fob button.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin the chevy cruze key fob button replacement, gather these simple tools:
- Small Hammer: Used to gently tap out the retaining pin.
- 1/16″ Punch: This precise tool is essential for pushing out the small retaining pin that secures the key blade.
While a gunsmithing punch set is ideal due to its precision, any small hammer and 1/16″ punch will suffice. You can easily find a 1/16″ punch online.
Parts Required for Key Fob Button Replacement
For this repair, you will need a replacement key fob casing. Ensure you purchase the correct type for your vehicle. Here are recommended options available online:
- Replacement 4-Button OEM Cruze Key Fob: Ideal for standard Chevy Cruze models. You can find these on websites like Amazon.
- Replacement 5-Button OEM Cruze Key Fob: For Cruze models with remote start or additional features requiring a 5-button fob. Also readily available online.
It’s crucial to use an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) key fob replacement to guarantee compatibility and proper function with your Chevy Cruze. Aftermarket options might not always work correctly. You will be transferring your existing key blade into this new fob, so there’s no need for key cutting.
Step-by-Step Chevy Cruze Key Fob Button Replacement Procedure
Let’s proceed with the chevy cruze key fob button replacement. Follow these steps carefully:
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Assess the Damage: Identify the damage to your Cruze key. Common issues include cracks around the key blade hinge or worn-out buttons. Regardless of the specific button damage, the replacement procedure remains the same.
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Prepare Your Workspace: Find a firm, stable surface to work on. This will allow you to apply controlled force when tapping out the retaining pin.
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Remove the Retaining Pin (Old Key Fob): Position your damaged key fob on the hard surface, ensuring the key blade hinge area is accessible. Using your 1/16″ punch and hammer, gently tap the retaining pin out. This pin secures the key blade to the fob mechanism.
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Remove the Retaining Pin (New Key Fob): Repeat the pin removal process with your new replacement key fob. These pins can be tightly fitted, so apply firm, controlled taps with the hammer and punch until the pin is removed.
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Transfer the Key Blade: Take the metal key blade from your old, damaged key fob and carefully place it into the new key fob casing.
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Reinstall the Retaining Pin: Align the key blade within the new fob and insert the retaining pin. You can usually push the pin back into place using just the hammer, without needing the punch for reinstallation.
Programming the New Key Fob (If Necessary)
In most cases, for a simple chevy cruze key fob button replacement, reprogramming is not necessary as you are only swapping the casing and retaining your original key blade and internal electronics. However, if you encounter any issues with the buttons not working after the replacement, follow these simple programming steps:
- Start your Chevy Cruze with your original, working key. Let the engine run for a few seconds.
- Turn off the ignition and remove the original key.
- Within five seconds of turning off the car, insert the newly assembled key fob into the ignition and start the car.
Turn off the ignition again and test the buttons on your new key fob. They should now be functioning correctly.
Special Note for Single Key Owners
If you only have one key and are performing this chevy cruze key fob button replacement, follow this modified procedure to avoid any issues:
- Remove the retaining pin from both the old and new key fobs as described above.
- Carefully remove only the metal blade from your original key fob.
- Leave the blade inserted in the ignition of your Chevy Cruze.
- Hit the “open” button on both the old and new key fobs to ensure the swing mechanisms are open.
- Use the old key fob (without the blade, just the fob body) to start your car.
- Turn off the car and quickly remove the old key fob from the key blade in the ignition.
- Immediately attach the new key fob to the key blade still in the ignition and start the car.
- Remove the key blade (pliers may be helpful if it’s tight).
- Finally, reassemble your original blade into the new key fob casing using the retaining pin as previously described.
By following these steps, your chevy cruze key fob button replacement should be successful, restoring the functionality of your key fob and saving you the cost of a professional replacement. Enjoy your fully functional Chevy Cruze key fob!
