2012 7th generation (final year)
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob takes a CR2032 (remote transmitter) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.
Last verified
Quick answer
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob takes a CR2032 (remote transmitter) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.
Replacing the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob battery
- Pry the fob open gently at the seam with a small flathead screwdriver or a coin, working around the edge. Many fobs have a hidden release slot near the key ring or emergency-key blade.
- Note the battery orientation (usually positive side up) before removing the old cell.
- Avoid touching the new battery's faces with bare fingers; skin oils can shorten its life.
- If the fob doesn't work after replacement, check that the battery is seated fully and the contacts weren't bent. Most vehicles do not need re-pairing after a battery change.
Which Chevrolet Malibu model years does this cover?
These key fob battery specifications apply to every Chevrolet Malibu built from 2012 through 2012 — the 7th generation (final year), mid-size sedan (epsilon platform). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2012Final year of the 7th generation, sold alongside the early-launched 2013 Eco. Last Malibu with an available V6 until, well, ever.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob battery: common questions
What battery does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob take?
- A single CR2032 (remote transmitter) coin cell.
Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob?
- This fob takes a CR2032 (remote transmitter), so start there. The two cells share a 20 mm diameter but differ in thickness, and the thicker one does not always seat in a housing built for the thinner.
How do you open a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu key fob?
- Slide out the mechanical emergency key first, which usually releases a catch, then part the halves with a plastic pry tool or a coin wrapped in tape. A screwdriver will mark the case and can crack the seam.
Sources
- AMSOIL product lookup, 2012 Malibu 3.6L capacities
- Costa Oils, 2012 Malibu 2.4L oil change guide (5 qt, 5W-30)
- Walmart/ACDelco, PF457G fitment 2004–2012 Malibu
- TirePressure.org, 2012 Malibu placard pressures (30 psi)
- WiperBladesUSA, 2012 Malibu 24/21-in blades
- fueleconomy.gov, 2012 Malibu EPA ratings
- RepairPal, 2012 Malibu top reported problems
- Element Wheels, 2008–2012 Malibu 5x110 bolt pattern
- Sonnax, GM 6T40/6T70 3-5-R wave plate failure