Losing or needing an extra key fob for your Chevy Bolt can be a frustrating experience. Like many Chevy Bolt owners, you might consider purchasing a more affordable aftermarket key fob online. However, as one Chevy Bolt owner discovered, the path to programming a new key fob isn’t always straightforward, especially when opting for aftermarket alternatives. This article delves into a real-world experience with Chevy Bolt Key Fob Programming, highlighting the critical differences between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket fobs, and whether DIY programming is a viable option.
Initially, seeking a replacement key fob for a newly acquired 2017 Chevy Bolt Premier that came without one, the owner decided to order an aftermarket fob from Car and Truck Remotes. The invoice did mention the need for professional programming by a locksmith or dealership. Yet, without clear distinctions between OEM and aftermarket versions or reasons to justify professional programming for an online purchase, the warning was easily dismissed. It seemed like it might be an overstatement, perhaps referring to key cutting if needed, or simply misinformation. Unfortunately, this assumption proved incorrect.
The aftermarket fob arrived, but immediately presented issues. Beyond the programming hurdle, the physical quality was noticeably inferior. Three out of the four buttons lacked tactile feedback, raising doubts about their functionality. Compared to an existing OEM fob, the mechanical feel was significantly lacking. This immediately prompted thoughts of returning the aftermarket fob, even before attempting programming.
Further investigation and online discussions revealed that programming aftermarket fobs for Chevy Bolts can be problematic. Despite online DIY programming instructions, success with aftermarket fobs appears inconsistent, described by customer service as “random.” The potential consequences of incorrect programming were even suggested to be as severe as needing a tow to the dealership. While this might be an exaggeration, the user’s experience quickly escalated, demonstrating real issues beyond simple programming difficulties.
Faced with these challenges, the owner contacted Car and Truck Remotes customer service and received the following information:
- OEM and aftermarket fobs are theoretically the same from a programming standpoint.
- Professional programming by a dealer or locksmith is recommended for both types.
- DIY programming success is unpredictable (“random”).
- Incorrect programming could potentially require towing the vehicle to a dealer.
These points, while somewhat informative, didn’t fully clarify the situation and even seemed contradictory to the reported DIY successes online for OEM fobs. The owner then considered several options:
- Dealer Programming of Aftermarket Fob: The Chevy dealer quoted $118 to attempt programming the aftermarket fob, including key cutting, with no guarantee of success.
- Aftermarket Fob Exchange: Exchanging for another aftermarket fob and hoping for better programming luck.
- OEM Fob Purchase (Online): Returning the aftermarket fob and buying an OEM fob from Car and Truck Remotes for $89.95, still with uncertain DIY programming.
- Dealer Purchase and Programming: Buying an OEM fob from the Chevy dealer and having them program it for a significant cost: $159.24 for the fob plus $118 for labor.
- OEM Fob and Locksmith Programming: Purchasing an OEM fob and using a locksmith, with quotes around $50 for programming, but with some uncertainty about locksmith expertise in this specific area.
Choosing to “roll the dice” with option 3, the owner proceeded with purchasing an OEM fob online. In the interim, driving the Chevy Bolt in “Theft Deterrent” mode became a daily reality. This mode, intended as a security measure, required a 12-second long press followed by a short press of the power button to start the car. It also triggered false theft alarms and OnStar warnings, creating significant inconvenience.
The situation worsened when the car experienced a completely dead 12V battery after being parked for just seven hours at work – the first time it wasn’t plugged in or driven since the key fob issues began. While the main drive battery was fine, the car wouldn’t start, necessitating a jump start of the electric vehicle. This incident raised concerns about “Theft Deterrent” mode potentially impacting the 12V battery or a coincidental battery failure. Interestingly, a battery check at a tire dealership showed the 12V battery to be in good condition, mirroring similar experiences with a previous Prius and its 12V battery quirks.
Fortunately, the story has a positive resolution. Option 3 – the OEM fob purchased online – proved successful. Upon arrival, programming the OEM fob was remarkably easy and quick, taking only about 5 seconds using the car’s built-in programming procedure. The “Theft Deterrent” warning and dashboard light immediately disappeared, and normal locking/unlocking functionality was restored. The car then functioned normally, including maintaining the 12V battery charge during parking.
The OEM fob from Car and Truck Remotes differed significantly from the aftermarket version in several key aspects:
- Branding: The OEM fob had the Chevy logo and a QR code sticker on the back, unlike the blank aftermarket fob.
- Button Feel: All buttons on the OEM fob provided a distinct mechanical “click,” a stark contrast to the mushy, misaligned buttons of the aftermarket fob.
- Cost: The OEM fob was more expensive at $89.95 compared to the $39.95 aftermarket fob.
- Programmability: Crucially, the OEM fob was easily DIY programmable, contradicting the generalized warnings about professional programming and the aftermarket fob’s programming failure.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations:
This real-world experience provides valuable lessons for Chevy Bolt owners needing a key fob replacement:
- Avoid Aftermarket Fobs for DIY Programming: While cheaper, aftermarket key fobs for Chevy Bolts appear to have a high risk of programming issues and potential quality concerns. The hassle and potential problems outweigh the initial cost savings.
- OEM Fobs are Worth the Investment: Investing in an OEM key fob significantly increases the chances of successful DIY programming and ensures better build quality and functionality.
- DIY Programming is Feasible with OEM Fobs: For OEM fobs, the Chevy Bolt’s built-in programming procedure is generally straightforward and effective, eliminating the need for costly dealer or locksmith services.
- Inspect Used Cars for Both Key Fobs: When purchasing a used Chevy Bolt, ensure it comes with both original key fobs to avoid future replacement hassles and expenses. Factor in the cost of OEM fob replacement if a fob is missing.
- Consider Online OEM Retailers Carefully: While online retailers can offer OEM fobs at competitive prices, verify the source and return policies. While Car and Truck Remotes was ultimately helpful in providing an OEM fob, the initial contradictory information and aftermarket fob experience were problematic.
In conclusion, while the allure of cheaper aftermarket options can be strong, for Chevy Bolt key fob programming, sticking with an OEM fob is the clearly recommended path for a smoother, more reliable, and ultimately less stressful experience. The slight extra cost upfront can save significant time, frustration, and potential vehicle issues down the road.
