Need Help with my 2012 Chevy Equinox Key Fob

Questions and Support
1

I’ve been having some trouble with my key fob for my 2012 Chevy Equinox and I’m hoping someone here can help me out. Here’s the situation:

Lost Key Fob

I accidentally lost my key fob a few days ago, and I’m in a bit of a bind since I can’t get into my vehicle or start it. I’ve done some research on getting a replacement, but I wanted to ask the community for tips.

  • Where can I buy a replacement key fob? Are there any particular websites or local dealerships that offer good deals?
  • What’s the average cost? I’ve heard prices can vary quite a bit.

Programming a New Key Fob

If someone could also shed some light on whether I can program a new key fob myself or if I need to take it to a dealership, that would be great! Here are the questions I have:

  • Is it a complicated process? What tools will I need?
  • Are there any specific instructions for the 2012 model? I want to make sure I’m doing it right.

Troubleshooting

Additionally, if anyone has experienced issues with their key fob not working, I’d love to hear your troubleshooting tips. My current fob sometimes doesn’t lock or unlock the doors reliably.

  • What should I check first? Is it worth replacing the battery myself or is it usually more involved than that?

Thanks in advance for any advice you can share. I appreciate the help and look forward to your responses!

2

Replacing the battery in a 2012 Chevy Equinox key fob is pretty straightforward! You just need a CR2032 battery. Start by using a flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the fob. Be careful not to crack the plastic!

3

Thanks for the tip! I guess I should buy a couple of those batteries in case the fob dies again. Any troubleshooting tips if it doesn’t work after I replace the battery?

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4

Great question, karenhamilton! If the key fob isn’t working after a battery swap, make sure the battery is installed correctly with the + side facing up. Sometimes it helps to reset the fob by pressing the lock button a few times.

5

I once changed my key fob battery and it still didn’t work. I thought I broke it! But it turned out the battery I used was defective. So, maybe buy from a reputable source.

6

Good to know, esmith! I’ll double-check the battery orientation. Any recommendations on where to buy a good quality battery?

7

I got great batteries from a local auto parts store, rwhite. They usually carry the CR2032. I’ve also heard that Walmart and Best Buy have reliable options, too!

8

If you do find that the fob won’t work after replacing the battery, you might also want to check the contacts inside the fob. Sometimes they get corroded or dirty, which can prevent proper contact.

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9

Has anyone tried to DIY troubleshooting methods on their key fob? I read about resyncing the fob to the car after a battery change. Is this a thing?

10

Yes, david45! You can often resync your key fob by getting in the car, turning the ignition ON, and then pressing the lock button on the fob. Sometimes it works magic!

11

Haha, magic is what I need! It would be nice if car keys came with a fairy godmother for these tech issues.

12

I’ve always thought key fobs looked a bit like cheap toys. It’s crazy how something so small can hold all that power… and frustration!

13

Absolutely, robinkent! It’s ironic how something so compact can disrupt your whole day if it doesn’t work! Makes you appreciate the simple key, right?

14

This is a great thread! I appreciate everybody’s input. I didn’t realize there were so many factors to consider when changing a battery in my fob.

15

Well, you are not alone, markpadilla! I felt the same way when I first tackled this. It’s always a learning experience, and now I feel like an expert! :wink:

16

Hey! Programming a new key fob for your 2012 Chevy Equinox is pretty straightforward. You’ll need the old key fob and a new one. Here’s a quick rundown: 1. Sit inside the car with all doors closed. 2. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to ‘On’ (not ‘Start’) and back to ‘Off’ twice. 3. Remove the key and then press any button on the new key fob. 4. Your car should respond with locks unlocking/locking. 5. Test your new fob. Let me know if you need more details!

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17

That’s super helpful, Jesse! Just to clarify, do you need a specific tool or just the old key fob for the process?

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18

You don’t need any special tools, just the old key fob! However, keep in mind that some aftermarket key fobs might not work perfectly. It’s always best to get the one from the dealer.

19

Ah, good to know! I guess I’ll be looking for an OEM key fob, then! Are there any common challenges people run into during the programming?

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20

One challenge folks run into is timing. You need to quickly switch between ‘On’ and ‘Off’ in the ignition. If you don’t do it right, the programming might fail. Just be patient and try again if it doesn’t work the first time!

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