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2024 Chevy Traverse Key Fob Not Working? Fast Fixes, Costs, and Next Steps

If your 2024 Chevrolet Traverse key fob suddenly won’t lock/unlock the doors or won’t let the vehicle start, the cause is often simple—like a weak coin-cell battery or signal interference. This guide covers quick checks, how to get moving using the backup methods, and when it’s time for dealer or locksmith help.

Understanding Your Situation

Most “key fob not working” complaints come from a depleted CR2032 battery, the fob not being detected due to interference, or a fob that’s been damaged by moisture/impact. Less commonly, the issue can be with the vehicle’s receiver, a blown fuse, or a module/software fault.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Try the spare key fob (if available). If the spare works, the problem is likely the original fob’s battery or internal damage.
  2. Replace the fob battery with a quality CR2032 coin cell, ensuring correct polarity and clean contacts. Then try locking/unlocking again from close range.
  3. If the Traverse won’t start, use the vehicle’s backup start procedure: hold the fob against the designated backup location (often inside the cabin near the steering column/center console area—check the owner’s manual) and press the brake + START/STOP to start.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (CR2032)

Cost: $3-$15 Time: Same day

Open the fob, install a new CR2032 battery, and confirm buttons work and the vehicle detects the fob for starting.

✓ Pros:
  • Cheapest and most common fix
  • No programming required in most cases
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t help if the fob is water-damaged or internally broken
  • Low-quality batteries can fail quickly

Use the mechanical key + backup start method

Cost: $0 Time: Same day

Use the hidden mechanical key to unlock the driver door if the remote functions fail, then use the in-vehicle backup detection location to start the Traverse even with a weak fob battery.

✓ Pros:
  • Gets you into and moving the vehicle quickly
  • Useful even when the fob battery is nearly dead
✗ Cons:
  • Not a permanent repair
  • May trigger the alarm when unlocking manually on some vehicles

Have a locksmith diagnose/replace and program a new fob

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

An automotive locksmith verifies whether the fob is transmitting, checks for vehicle-side communication issues, and can supply/program a replacement key fob if needed.

✓ Pros:
  • Often faster and less expensive than a dealership
  • Mobile service available in many areas
✗ Cons:
  • Not all locksmiths can service the newest model years
  • Aftermarket fobs vary in quality

Dealership diagnosis, key replacement, and programming

Cost: $250-$650 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

The dealer confirms the correct OEM fob, programs it to the vehicle, and can diagnose vehicle-side issues (receiver/module/software) if the fob isn’t the root cause.

✓ Pros:
  • Correct OEM parts and factory programming tools
  • Best path if a vehicle module, antenna, or software issue is suspected
✗ Cons:
  • Typically the highest cost
  • May require an appointment and towing if the vehicle won’t start

Vehicle-side electrical diagnosis (if multiple fobs fail)

Cost: $120-$250 (diagnostic) + repairs Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If neither fob works, a shop checks for low vehicle battery voltage, relevant fuses, antenna/receiver issues, and body control module (BCM) faults.

✓ Pros:
  • Addresses the root cause when it’s not the fob
  • Prevents repeated key/fob replacement
✗ Cons:
  • Cost can increase if modules/antennas need replacement
  • Some repairs may require dealer-level tooling

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t repeatedly force the fob case open with metal tools that can damage the circuit board or the seal (which increases moisture intrusion risk).

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest unknown-brand replacement fob online without confirming FCC ID/part compatibility for a 2024 Traverse—wrong units may not program or may have poor range.

✕ Don’t ignore a weak vehicle battery: low 12V voltage can cause intermittent no-start/no-detect symptoms that look like a bad key fob.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

What battery does a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse key fob use?

Most 2024 Traverse key fobs use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, but always confirm by checking the marking on the old battery or your owner’s manual.

My Traverse says “Key Not Detected.” What should I do first?

Move the fob closer, replace the CR2032 battery, and try the backup start method by placing/holding the fob at the vehicle’s designated backup detection location (see the owner’s manual), then press the brake and START/STOP.

Why does the key fob work sometimes and not others?

Intermittent operation is commonly caused by a weak coin-cell battery, interference (phone, other RF devices), or a fob with internal damage. It can also happen with a low 12V vehicle battery or a loose/damaged receiver/antenna connection.

If I replace the battery, do I need to reprogram the fob?

Usually no—battery replacement does not typically erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a fresh battery, the fob may be damaged or the vehicle may need diagnosis.

Can I program a new 2024 Traverse key fob myself?

In many cases, adding or replacing modern GM proximity keys requires specialized equipment and security access. A dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith is typically needed.

If neither key fob works, what does that indicate?

If both fobs fail, suspect a vehicle-side issue (low 12V battery, blown fuse, receiver/antenna fault, or module problem) rather than two fobs failing at the same time.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re stranded or the vehicle won’t start, use the backup start method and replace the fob battery first. If the problem persists—especially if both fobs fail or you see repeated “Key Not Detected” messages—schedule diagnosis soon to avoid a no-start situation that could require towing.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

View Traverse Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04