Dealing with a broken or lost key fob for your Chevy Malibu can be frustrating and expensive. Many car owners assume they are stuck paying high prices at dealerships for a replacement. However, there are more affordable options available, especially when it comes to key cutting services for your Chevy Malibu key fob.
One user shared their positive experience using eBay seller 1statlantic for obtaining and cutting a key fob. Local locksmiths can indeed be pricey when it comes to cutting a key slot for your key fob. Ordering OEM, used key fobs that have been reset from 1statlantic on eBay can be a significantly cheaper alternative. They also offer a key cutting service for a reasonable $25. To utilize this service, you simply need to provide a close-up picture of the key slot on your current key fob, as illustrated below.
Chevy Malibu key fob blade slot for key cutting service
Alternative DIY Key Blade Replacement
If you are looking for an even more DIY approach, you can consider reusing the existing blade from your old, non-functional key fob. This involves removing the blade from your new key fob and replacing it with the pre-cut blade from your original fob. This process requires a bit of dexterity and care. You’ll need to drive out a tiny pin that secures the blade.
To do this successfully, position the key fob and blade on a solid surface. Using a fine punch or a straightened paperclip, gently tap against the pin to push it out. It’s helpful to partially open the blade to access the pin. To keep the blade from snapping closed during this process, wedge a small object into the opening. Numerous online videos can guide you through this process visually.
Important Tip: Work in a safe, well-lit area to prevent the tiny pin from flying away and getting lost during removal.
Key Fob Programming
Once you have your new key fob with the correctly cut blade, programming it to your Chevy Malibu is the next step. The user mentions that the programming procedure is as described in other online resources (like the post mentioned above, though not included in this context). It’s generally a straightforward process that can often be done by the car owner without needing professional assistance for standard bladed key fobs. Proximity fobs might have different or additional programming requirements, which were not covered in the original user’s experience.
By exploring options like eBay key cutting services and DIY blade swaps, Chevy Malibu owners can find more economical ways to handle key fob replacements and key cutting needs compared to traditional, and often more expensive, routes.
