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2013–2015 8th generation (Epsilon II)

2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu Key Fob Battery Type and Replacement

The 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu key fob takes a CR2032 (flip key and keyless-entry remotes) coin cell. How to open the fob without breaking it, and which substitutions actually work.

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Quick answer

The 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu key fob takes a CR2032 (flip key and keyless-entry remotes) coin-cell battery, available at any pharmacy, hardware store, or online for a few dollars.

Replacing the 2013–2015 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 2013 through 2015 — the 8th generation (Epsilon II), mid-size sedan (also sold to fleets as the 2016 'malibu limited'). 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 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu

  • 2013Generation launch, Eco eAssist arrived first (early 2012 on sale), then 2.5L and 2.0T. Electric parking brake and (optional) MyLink debut.
  • 2014Quick refresh after criticism: new front fascia, reshaped seats/center console for rear knee room, stop-start added to the 2.5L (new dual-battery setup), 2.5L economy up to 25/36. 18-in tire size changed to 225/50R18. Eco eAssist's final year.
  • 2015Carryover; last retail year, the 8th gen continued for fleets only as the 2016 'Malibu Limited'.

2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu key fob battery: common questions

What battery does the 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu key fob take?

A single CR2032 (flip key and keyless-entry remotes) coin cell.

Can you use a CR2032 instead of a CR2025 in a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu key fob?

This fob takes a CR2032 (flip key and keyless-entry remotes), 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 2013–2015 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.

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