2011 Chevrolet Malibu won't start with ignition key, only with remote key.
I bought a used 2011 Chevrolet Malibu in may 2011. The car only had
3000 miles in it. I test drove the car and when I drove off the lot it started
right away. But after my first stop when I tried to start the car if would not
start. I then used the remote start feature to start it and it worked. I called
the dealer and they asked me to take it back so the could check it. Well, I
never did. I have been using the remote start since I bought the car and
my warranty has expired. I not having a problem withe the remote start,
the problem is the key. I turn the key all the way and the car wont start
nor it will make any sounds of it trying to start. Until just a few nights ago
The car would not start with the remote key so I started to check for
some electrical problems like fuses or relays. The car the started again
with the remote key and I tried to started with the ignition key and it
worked for the first time. So I thought it was fixed. But the next day it
went back to only starting with the remote key. I had all the fuses and
relays checked and even replaced a few fuses but the problem is it there. I
can any of you please help me find the problem so I can fix it and start
my car with the ignition key.
I have to admit you give us more information than most, something to go on, Thank You for that anyway. But Good Grief, to state the obvious, you should have gone right back right then. All this hindsight is 20/20 but you are SOL, with the dealer paying for any repairs, sorry. Tom hit it: DOH! You can try re programming the key. See below:
With an unlearned key, turn ON the ignition, but not the engine: enter image description here Wait for roughly 10 minutes at least, for the 'security indicator' to turn off: (click picture)
Turn the ignition completely OFF and wait for about 5 to 10 seconds Repeat steps 1-3 for two more times for a total of 3 cycles.... about 30 minutes, have patience it will take time it is important to complete all steps of the third cycle, especially step three, as this is how the vehicle learns the key transponder information. In other words, before starting the car, you must turn off the ignition and wait 10 seconds first With the key you just programmed, turn the key and start the car. The key is now operable on the car. Now, all other keys you may have previously had will no longer work, and must be re-programmed as well. Take the key that is already programmed, and turn the ignition to ON (with engine OFF)
Watch the 'security indicator' until it's solid Turn the ignition off and quickly replace the key you wish to program Turn the ignition to ON (engine OFF) and wait until the 'security indicator' turns solid The Key is now programmed and should now start the car
Thanks I will try that since I want to try anything before I take it to a mechanic who will just end up taking the car apart. One more question. Do I have to replace the remote too or just the key it self?
The fob will be fine as is... and I sincerely hope that works with the key(s) It should.
the cuts on the key could be worn and not bringing the tumblers of the lock cylinder in all the way and the center of the lock cylinder could be touching the case. that will put the vehicle into theft mode. is that the only key to the car? try a different key if possible or you could need a replacement lock cylinder.
