2016 Chevy Malibu Key Fob Battery Replacement
The 2016 Malibu and the 2016 Malibu Limited both take a CR2032, but their fobs open in different ways. Below you’ll find the Deluxe CR2032 specs and a separate step-by-step guide for each fob.
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Will This Battery Work in Your Malibu Fob?
Chevrolet’s owner manual lists a CR2032 or equivalent battery for the 2016 Malibu remote, and the same for the 2016 Malibu Limited. Run this quick check before you buy or open the fob.
The redesigned 2016 Malibu has a removable mechanical key. The 2016 Malibu Limited has an extendable key blade. The two fobs open differently, and Chevrolet gives a different battery direction for each. If your fob is an aftermarket replacement, check the battery marking inside it before you buy.
Deluxe CR2032 Specifications
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand / product | Deluxe Batteries, Key Fob Replacement Batteries for Chevy & GMC (Amazon ASIN B0D53P8QV4) |
| Battery type | CR2032 coin cell |
| Chemistry | Lithium / manganese dioxide (Li/MnO₂) is standard for CR2032. Non-rechargeable |
| Nominal voltage | 3 V |
| Dimensions (standard CR2032) | 20 mm diameter × 3.2 mm thick |
| Capacity (listing) | 225 mAh as stated on the product listing |
| Pack contents | 2 single-use batteries |
| Batteries per fob | 1 (the second battery is a spare) |
| Chevrolet requirement | CR2032 or equivalent (2016 Malibu and 2016 Malibu Limited) |
| Programming after swap | None in Chevrolet’s battery replacement steps |
| Key fob included | No, batteries only |
| Other ratings | Weight, temperature range, pulse current and shelf life are not published for this pack |
The 225 mAh figure comes from the product listing and was not independently tested. The listing does not name the cell maker. Size and chemistry are the standard CR2032 values. Capacity varies with load, temperature and device cutoff voltage.
Malibu Key Fob Battery Replacement Difficulty
This is an easy job for most owners. It means opening one fob, swapping one coin cell and closing it again. The redesigned Malibu fob needs a small flat tool, while the Malibu Limited cover opens by finger. Tap a slice to highlight it.
- 30% Opening the fob housing
- 25% Getting the polarity right
- 25% Choosing a CR2032
- 20% Seating & testing the remote
The difficulty score and effort split are an editorial estimate based on Chevrolet’s short replacement procedures, not an official rating.
How to Replace Your Malibu Key Fob Battery
Pick the procedure that matches your fob. Tap each step to tick it off as you go.
2016 Chevy Malibu (removable mechanical key)
- 1Release the keyPress the release button on the side of the fob and pull the mechanical key out.
- 2Open the housingInsert a small flat tool into the area near the key slot and gently separate the two halves. Do not touch the circuitry.
- 3Remove the old batteryPush on the old CR2032 and slide it toward the bottom of the fob. Keep it away from children and pets.
- 4Insert the new CR2032Place the new battery with the positive (+) side facing the back cover. Push down until it is held in place.
- 5Close and testSnap the cover back onto the fob, slide the key back in and test the buttons.
2016 Chevy Malibu Limited (extendable key blade)
- 1Extend the key bladePress the button on the fob to extend the key blade.
- 2Remove the battery coverPry the battery cover off with your finger.
- 3Remove the old batteryPush on the old CR2032 and slide it toward the key blade. Keep it away from children and pets.
- 4Insert the new CR2032Place the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up. Push down until it is held in place.
- 5Close and testSnap the battery cover back onto the fob and test the buttons.
Chevrolet warns that static from your body can damage the transmitter. Do not touch the circuitry while changing the battery.
Check that the battery is a CR2032, that it faces the right way for your fob and that it is fully seated. Chevrolet also notes that signal interference can trigger remote-detection messages. If the fob still fails, see a dealer or qualified technician.
If the fob battery is weak, Chevrolet’s manual describes a backup start using the transmitter pocket in the center console. The direction the fob buttons face depends on the model, so follow the steps in your owner’s manual. Replace the battery as soon as possible.
Other Devices That Use a CR2032
The devices below are named as CR2032 users by Apple, Accu-Chek, Panasonic or Chevrolet. This does not confirm the Deluxe pack for each one. Confirm the battery type in your device manual first.
- Malibu & Malibu Limited fobsChevrolet lists CR2032
- Other Chevy & GMC fobsCheck your model’s manual
- Apple AirTagUses a CR2032; see coating note
- Accu-Chek Guide meterUses two CR2032 cells
- Memory backupPanasonic lists this use
- Card remote controlsPanasonic lists this use
- Security price tagsPanasonic lists this use
Apple recommends a bitterant-coated CR2032 for AirTag and warns that some coated cells may not work. It advises looking for packaging that states AirTag compatibility. Check the packaging before using this pack in an AirTag.
Safety & Disposal
A swallowed button or coin battery can cause internal chemical burns in as little as two hours. Keep new and used cells out of reach of children. Get emergency medical help immediately if you suspect ingestion.
- Never recharge a CR2032.
- Use only the CR2032 your fob specifies. Do not swap in a different size or stack cells.
- Keep used cells out of household trash and recycling bins.
- Tape the terminals or bag each cell, then use a battery collection point.
2016 Chevy Malibu Key Fob Battery: FAQ
What battery does a 2016 Chevy Malibu key fob use?
Chevrolet’s owner manual lists a CR2032 or equivalent battery for the 2016 Malibu remote. The 2016 Malibu Limited manual lists the same. Each fob takes one battery.
Which side of the battery faces up?
It depends on the fob. On the redesigned 2016 Malibu, the positive (+) side faces the back cover. On the 2016 Malibu Limited, the positive (+) side faces up.
Does the Deluxe pack include a key fob?
No. The pack contains two CR2032 batteries only. You need your existing fob.
Is the battery rechargeable?
No. A CR2032 is a single-use cell, and Chevrolet states that the remote battery is not rechargeable. The product listing’s “lithium ion” label does not change this. Never try to recharge it.
Do I need to reprogram the fob after the swap?
Chevrolet’s battery replacement steps for these fobs do not include a programming step. Programming a different replacement fob is a separate job.
How long will the battery last?
No tested runtime is published for this pack, and no fixed number is given here. Replace the battery when your Malibu’s driver information display indicates that battery replacement is needed.
Can I use a CR2025 or CR2016 instead?
No. Panasonic advises against substituting a different model number and says two CR2016 cells must not replace one CR2032, because two cells double the voltage to 6V. Use the CR2032 that Chevrolet specifies.
The fob still does not work after the swap. What now?
Check that the battery is a CR2032, that the positive side faces the correct way for your fob and that it is fully seated. Chevrolet also notes that signal interference can trigger remote-detection messages. If the problem remains, see a dealer or qualified technician.
How should I dispose of a used CR2032?
Do not put it in household trash or recycling bins. Tape the terminals or bag each cell on its own, then take it to a battery collection point or household hazardous-waste service. Keep used cells away from children.
