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Damaged Key Fob for a 2024 Chevy Malibu: What to Do Next

A damaged key fob on a 2024 Chevrolet Malibu can cause intermittent unlocking, remote start failures, or a “No Remote Detected” message. The right next steps depend on whether the fob is physically broken, water-damaged, or simply has a weak battery.

Understanding Your Situation

The Malibu’s key fob contains a battery, buttons, and electronics (including the immobilizer transponder). Drops, crushed buttons, cracked housings, or moisture can break the shell, loosen the battery contacts, or damage internal circuitry—leading to unreliable or non-working operation.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Inspect the fob for cracks, separated seams, missing buttons, or signs of water intrusion; if wet, remove the battery (if accessible) and let the fob air-dry thoroughly before testing.
  2. Replace the coin-cell battery with the correct type listed in your owner’s manual (common types include CR2032, but verify for your specific fob) and clean the battery contacts gently if they look dirty or corroded.
  3. Confirm you can still start the vehicle using the Malibu’s backup start method for a weak/dead fob (use the procedure in the owner’s manual); if the car won’t recognize the fob, plan for professional testing/replacement.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (DIY or shop)

Cost: $5-$20 Time: Same day

Install a new coin-cell battery and verify the fob functions (lock/unlock, trunk, remote start if equipped). This addresses many “damaged fob” symptoms that are actually low-battery issues after a drop or long storage.

✓ Pros:
  • Lowest cost and quickest fix
  • Often resolves intermittent range/response issues
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t fix water damage or broken internal components
  • Incorrect battery type or poor installation can cause continued issues

Replace the key fob shell/case (reuse the original electronics)

Cost: $15-$60 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Move the internal circuit board and transponder components from the damaged housing into a new compatible shell. This is best when buttons are torn, the case is cracked, or the key blade area is broken but the electronics still work.

✓ Pros:
  • Cheaper than a full fob replacement
  • Keeps the original programmed electronics (no reprogramming if you transfer the same internals)
✗ Cons:
  • Not suitable if the circuit board is damaged
  • Incorrect shell type can cause poor button fit or alignment

Dealer replacement key fob (OEM) and programming

Cost: $200-$450 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Purchase an OEM fob from a Chevrolet dealer and have it programmed to your 2024 Malibu. The dealer can also verify the fob type by VIN and check for related vehicle-side issues.

✓ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility and correct part by VIN
  • Programming and verification handled professionally
✗ Cons:
  • Typically the most expensive route
  • May require an appointment and proof of ownership

Automotive locksmith replacement and programming

Cost: $150-$350 Time: Same day

A mobile locksmith supplies a compatible fob (OEM or aftermarket, depending on availability) and programs it to your Malibu on-site. Good option if you can’t drive the vehicle or want faster scheduling than a dealer.

✓ Pros:
  • Convenient mobile service in many areas
  • Often less expensive than dealer pricing
✗ Cons:
  • Aftermarket fobs vary in quality and range
  • Not all locksmiths can service late-model GM systems—confirm capability for a 2024 Malibu

Warranty/insurance assistance (if applicable)

Cost: $0-$200 Time: 1-7 days

Check any extended warranty, vehicle protection plan, or insurance endorsement (e.g., key fob replacement coverage). If the fob failed without obvious abuse and the vehicle is new, ask the dealer to evaluate whether any assistance applies.

✓ Pros:
  • Can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket cost
  • May include OEM parts and dealer programming
✗ Cons:
  • Coverage varies widely and may exclude physical damage
  • Claims/approval can take time

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t keep pressing buttons repeatedly if the fob is wet or visibly damaged—this can worsen corrosion or short the circuit board.

✕ Don’t buy a replacement fob solely by looks; the wrong frequency/part number may not program or may have reduced functionality (verify compatibility for a 2024 US-market Malibu).

✕ Don’t attempt to glue or tape the fob shut with the battery installed if the case is cracked—pressure can damage the circuit board and battery contacts.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Throwing away damaged key
  • Not salvaging electronics
  • Buying OEM when aftermarket works
  • Not considering case-only replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still start my 2024 Chevrolet Malibu if the key fob is damaged?

Often yes, if the transponder portion still works. Many Malibus have a backup starting procedure for a weak/dead fob—follow the exact steps in your owner’s manual. If the vehicle shows “No Remote Detected” and won’t start, you’ll likely need a replacement fob and programming.

Do I need programming if I only replace the key fob shell?

Usually not, as long as you transfer the original internal electronics (circuit board/transponder) into the new shell. If you replace the entire fob (new electronics), programming is typically required.

How much does it cost to replace and program a key fob for a 2024 Malibu?

Typical total cost is about $150-$450 depending on OEM vs aftermarket, who programs it (dealer vs locksmith), and local labor rates. Battery-only fixes are much less ($5-$20).

What if my key fob went through the wash or got soaked?

Remove the battery as soon as possible (if you can), dry the fob thoroughly, and avoid button presses while wet. Even if it works at first, corrosion can cause delayed failure—plan on testing and consider replacement if behavior becomes intermittent.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Treat this as urgent if you only have one working fob, the vehicle intermittently won’t detect the remote, or you rely on remote start for safety/medical reasons. A failing fob can stop working completely without warning—getting a tested spare programmed now can prevent a tow or lockout later.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Chevrolet Malibu.

View Malibu Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04