Is your 2011-2016 Chevy Cruze key fob cracked, broken, or just plain worn out? Don’t worry, you don’t need to spend a fortune at the dealership for a brand new key. As a car repair expert at keyfobprog.com, I’m here to guide you through a simple and cost-effective DIY solution: replacing just the key fob shell. This guide will walk you through replacing your Chevy Cruze key fob shell, saving you time and money while keeping your original key blade and electronics. Whether your key fob is cracked near the key blade or damaged elsewhere, this tutorial will help you transfer your existing components into a brand new shell. The best part? You can do this with minimal tools and in just a few minutes.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather these simple tools and the replacement part:
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Small Hammer: For gently tapping the punch.
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1/16″ Punch: A gunsmithing punch set works great, but any small hammer and 1/16″ punch will do. This is crucial for removing the retaining pin. You can find a 1/16″ punch easily online (Amazon Link).
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Replacement Key Fob Shell: Make sure to get the correct one for your key. For 2011-2016 Chevy Cruze models, you’ll typically need a 4-button OEM Cruze Key replacement shell (Amazon 4-Button Option) or a 5-button OEM Cruze Key replacement shell if your key has remote start (Amazon 5-Button Option). Using an OEM-style replacement ensures proper fit and function.
Step-by-Step Chevy Cruze Key Fob Shell Replacement Procedure
Let’s get started with the replacement process. It’s easier than you might think!
Step 1: Removing the Retaining Pin from Your Old Key Fob
First, you’ll need to remove the pin that secures the key blade to your old, damaged key fob. Locate the small pin at the joint where the metal key blade meets the plastic fob. Place your old Cruze key fob on a firm surface. Using your 1/16″ punch and small hammer, gently tap the pin out. You’ll want to tap from the side where the pin is less recessed. Be patient and apply firm, controlled taps until the pin starts to move.
Step 2: Disassembling Both Old and New Key Fob Shells
Once the retaining pin is out, the key blade should easily slide out of your old key fob shell. Now, take your new replacement key fob shell and repeat the process. You’ll need to remove the retaining pin from the new key fob shell as well. This might require a bit more force as the pin in the new shell can be quite tight. Rest the edge of the new key fob on a hard surface to provide resistance while you tap the pin out with the punch and hammer.
Step 3: Assembling the New Key Fob with Your Original Key Blade
Now for the crucial step: transferring your original, cut key blade to the new key fob shell. Take your old key blade and carefully insert it into the new key fob shell. Align the holes for the retaining pin.
Step 4: Re-inserting the Retaining Pin
With the key blade in place within the new shell, it’s time to secure it with the retaining pin. Take the retaining pin (either from your old or new key fob – both will work) and push it back through the hole, securing the key blade in the new shell. In most cases, you can simply use your hammer to gently tap the pin back into place. You might not even need the punch for this step. Ensure the pin is fully inserted and flush with the surface of the key fob shell.
Step 5: Testing Your New Key Fob
That’s it! You’ve successfully replaced your Chevy Cruze key fob shell. No programming should be necessary as you’ve retained all of your original electronics. Simply test all the buttons on your new key fob to ensure they are working correctly. Start your car to confirm the key blade works as expected.
Special Note for Single Key Owners
If you only have one key for your 2011-2016 Chevy Cruze, this procedure requires a slight modification to ensure you don’t get locked out or unable to start your car. Here’s how to handle a single key situation:
- Remove the pin from your old key fob as described in Step 1.
- Carefully remove only the blade from your old key fob.
- Leave the blade inserted in your car’s ignition cylinder.
- Hit the “open” button on both your old and new key fobs to ensure the swing mechanism is open and accessible.
- Use the old key fob (without the blade) to start the car.
- Turn off the car.
- Immediately pull the old key fob off the key blade (still in the ignition).
- Quickly place the new key fob shell onto the key blade (still in the ignition).
- Start the car again using the new key fob shell and the blade.
- Carefully remove the key blade from the ignition. If it’s tight, use pliers for a better grip.
- Finally, assemble the original blade into the new key fob shell and secure it with the retaining pin, as described in Steps 3 and 4.
This method ensures your car recognizes the transponder chip throughout the process, even with only one key available.
Conclusion
Replacing your 2011-2016 Chevy Cruze key fob shell is a straightforward DIY project that can save you significant money compared to dealership replacements. By following these simple steps, you can easily refresh your worn or damaged key fob and restore it to like-new condition. Enjoy your newly refreshed Chevy Cruze key fob!
