Are you dreading the cost of replacing your Chevy Malibu key fob? Local locksmiths often charge premium prices, especially for cutting the key slot. But there’s a smarter, more affordable solution: online key cutting services.
One highly recommended option is ordering OEM, used key fobs that have been reset from reputable eBay sellers like 1statlantic. They offer a fantastic key cutting service for just $25. The process is simple and convenient. You just need to provide a clear, close-up picture of your current key fob’s key slot. They use this image to precisely cut your new key to match.
Close-up of a Chevy Malibu key fob's key slot, required for precise key cutting services offered online, highlighting the detail needed for services like those on eBay.
For those who are a bit more hands-on, another option is to utilize the blade from your old, non-working fob. This involves a bit of DIY, but it can save you even more. You’ll need to carefully remove the blade from both your new and old fobs. The key is to drive out the tiny pin that secures the blade.
To do this safely, place the fob on a solid surface and use a fine punch or a straightened paperclip wire to gently tap the pin out. It’s helpful to partially open the blade and wedge something into the opening to keep it from snapping shut while you work. Numerous online videos can guide you through this process visually. Remember to work in a safe area where you won’t lose the small pin if it pops out.
Once your key is cut or you’ve swapped the blade, programming the bladed fob to your Chevy Malibu is generally straightforward, as described in many online resources and potentially in your vehicle’s owner manual. This method is specifically for bladed fobs; proximity fobs may have different programming procedures.
By using online services and considering DIY methods, you can significantly reduce the cost of your Chevy Malibu key fob replacement and get back on the road quickly without breaking the bank.
