How to Program Your 2011 Chevy Malibu 2.4 Car Key Fob

Lost your car key or need to program a new key fob for your 2011 Chevy Malibu 2.4? Don’t worry, while it might seem daunting, programming your key fob can be done, often without a trip to the dealership. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of programming your key fob, ensuring you regain full access and control of your vehicle. We’ll cover everything from the tools you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, making this task as straightforward as possible.

Tools Required for Key Fob Programming

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. Having everything prepared will streamline the programming process.

Scan Tool (with Pass-Thru Programming Capability): This is essential for communicating with your Chevy Malibu’s computer system. Ensure your scan tool is compatible with GM vehicles and supports the Service Programming System (SPS).
Service Programming System (SPS) Subscription: You’ll need access to the SPS software, which is typically obtained through a subscription from ACDelco TDS (Technical Delivery System). This software provides the necessary calibrations and programming data for your vehicle.
EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool (Recommended): Maintaining stable battery voltage is crucial during programming. This tool helps prevent interruptions due to voltage fluctuations. If you don’t have this specific tool, a fully charged 12V jumper or booster pack (disconnected from AC voltage) can be used as an alternative. Do not use a battery charger.

Important Notes Before You Begin Programming

Carefully review these crucial points before attempting to program your key fob. Ignoring these can lead to programming failures or even damage to your vehicle’s electronic control units.

Programming Only When Necessary: Only program control modules when explicitly instructed by a service procedure or bulletin. Unnecessary programming can lead to improper vehicle function if incorrect calibration software is installed.
Software and Connection: Always ensure your scan tool has the latest software updates and is securely connected to your vehicle’s data link connector. Interruptions during programming can cause failures or ECU damage.
Stable Battery Voltage is Critical: Fluctuations, spikes, over-voltage, or voltage loss are detrimental during programming. Use the EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool or a suitable alternative as mentioned in the “Tools Required” section.
Minimize Battery Load: Turn off or disable any systems that draw power from the vehicle’s battery. This includes interior lights, exterior lights (including daytime running lights), HVAC system, radio, and any other accessories.
Ignition Switch Position: Carefully follow the SPS prompts for the correct ignition switch position throughout the programming procedure.
Clear DTCs After Programming: Always clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) after programming is complete. Note that clearing powertrain DTCs will reset the Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) system status indicators to “NO”.
Accessory Remote Start Pre-Installed (RPO Code S6P): If your 2011 Chevy Malibu 2.4 was factory-equipped with the Accessory Remote Start kit (check your VIN in the Investigate Vehicle History system (IVH) or look for RPO code S6P on your vehicle’s build label), no programming is typically required for new key fobs. Once the new fobs are learned to the vehicle, the installation is complete.
Adding Accessory Remote Start (Without RPO Code S6P): If you are adding an Accessory Remote Start kit to a vehicle that doesn’t have RPO code S6P, you will need a VCI number from TCSC (Technical Customer Support Center). Contact TCSC at:
- United States: 1-888-337-1010
- Canada (English): 1-800-828-6860
- Canada (French): 1-800-503-3222
  You will need your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and the Authorization Code from the Accessory Remote Start kit to obtain the VCI number and access the necessary software.

Programming Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps precisely to program your 2011 Chevy Malibu 2.4 key fob. This procedure involves using the Service Programming System (SPS) and a scan tool.

Body Control Module (BCM) Programming and Setup

This section outlines how to program the Body Control Module (BCM), which is a crucial step in key fob programming.

Voltage Support: Install the EL-49642 SPS programming support tool or connect a suitable alternative to maintain stable voltage.
Access SPS: Access the Service Programming System (SPS) via your scan tool and follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your vehicle.
Select BCM Programming: On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, locate and select BCM Body Control Module – programming. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Ignition Preparation (Key Ignition System): If your Malibu has a key ignition system, insert the key into the ignition. Ensure any additional keys are at least 3 meters (approximately 10 feet) away from the vehicle.
Ignition Preparation (Push Button Start System): If your vehicle has a push-button start system, place the keyless entry transmitter into the console programming pocket. Refer to the Help section button on the SPS Immobilizer Setup screen for the exact pocket location in your Malibu. Ensure all additional transmitters are at least 3 meters away from the vehicle.
Wait for Security Timer: The following programming step may take between 10-12 minutes. Progress may appear to pause during this time. This is normal due to a security timer. Do not restart or interrupt the process.
Immobilizer Learn Procedure (If DTC B389A is Set): If DTC B389A sets immediately after BCM programming, it indicates the Immobilizer Learn procedure was not completed correctly. You will need to repeat the Immobilizer Learn procedure (explained in the next section).

Immobilizer Learn Procedure: Programming Transponders and Remote Keys

The Immobilizer Learn procedure allows you to program new key fobs and manage existing ones. You can choose to delete existing keys or add new ones.

Deleting Existing Keys/Transponders (Without Remote Start Button):

Note: Deleting keys will render them inoperable. This step is necessary if you want to associate new transponders with memory seat locations (if equipped). Skip this step if your vehicle does not have memory seats and you do not want to delete existing keys.
Select Immobilizer Learn – Setup: On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select IMMO Immobilizer Learn – Setup.
Select Program Transponder or Remote Key (Delete): On the next screen, choose (Program Transponder or Remote Key (Delete).
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Carefully follow the on-screen instructions provided by the SPS to delete existing keys and remotes.
Exit Immobilizer Learn Mode: Once the deletion process is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to exit the Immobilizer learn mode.
Repeat for Additional Remotes: Repeat this step if you need to delete any remaining remotes.

Adding New Keys/Transponders (With Remote Start Button):

Select Immobilizer Learn – Setup: On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select IMMO Immobilizer Learn – Setup.
Select Program Transponder or Remote Key (Add): On the next screen, choose (Program Transponder or Remote Key (Add).
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to add the new transponder or remote keys.
Exit Immobilizer Learn Mode: When the Immobilizer Learn process is complete, press the Unlock button on the keyless entry transmitter. This action allows the transmitter to exit the Immobilizer Learn mode.
Repeat for Additional Remotes: Repeat this step to add any additional remotes you wish to program.

Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor Learn (If Applicable)

Note: This step is required for vehicles with UJM (tire pressure monitoring system).
Select BCM Setup: On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select BCM Body Control Module – Setup. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Tire Pressure Sensor Tool: When prompted during BCM setup for the Tire Pressure Monitor Sensor Learn procedure, you must use the EL-46079 tire pressure monitor diagnostic tool to activate each tire pressure sensor.
Check Driver Information Center: Monitor the driver information center display for any additional messages or calibration instructions. If no further instructions are displayed, programming is complete.

Finalizing Programming

Clear DTCs: At the end of the programming process, use the SPS screen to choose the “Clear All DTCs” function.
Check for DTC C0161 and Indicator Lights: If the ABS, Traction Control, and/or Stabilitrak indicators are illuminated and DTC C0161 is set in the electronic brake control module after BCM programming and setup, perform the following steps to resolve this:
- Disconnect the scan tool from the data link connector.
- Turn the ignition OFF, close all doors, ensure all vehicle systems are OFF, and move all keys at least 3 meters away from the vehicle. Allow up to 2 minutes for the vehicle to fully power down (enter sleep mode).
- Turn the ignition ON and verify if DTC C0161 is present in history. If not, repeat the previous step to ensure the vehicle entered sleep mode.
- Use the scan tool to clear the DTCs.

Unsuccessful Programming Recovery

In the event of an interrupted or unsuccessful programming attempt, follow these recovery steps:

Do Not Turn Ignition OFF: Leave the ignition in the ON position.
Check Connections: Ensure all connections between the ECU, DLC (Data Link Connector), and programming tool are secure. Verify that your TIS terminal operating software is up to date.
Retry Programming: Attempt to reprogram the ECU again.
Ignition OFF and Retry (If Still Unsuccessful): If programming fails again, turn the ignition OFF for at least one minute. Then, turn the ignition ON and try reprogramming the ECU once more.
ECU Replacement (If Still Unsuccessful): If the ECU still cannot be programmed after these steps, ECU replacement may be necessary. Consult a qualified technician for further diagnosis and repair.

Key Fob Management After Programming

Customer Key Rings: Add the newly programmed transmitters to the customer’s key rings.
Return Old Transmitters: Return any old transmitters to the customer.
Master Keys and Memory Seats: Remember that the first two transmitters programmed will function as master keys and will be associated with memory seat positions (if equipped).

Erasing All Fobs and Relearning

This procedure erases all previously learned key fobs and requires you to reprogram all desired fobs in a single session.

Important Note: All transmitters intended for use with the vehicle must be programmed in a single programming sequence after initiating the erase function. Any transmitters not programmed at this time will become inoperative and will require reprogramming.
Avoid Programming Near Other Vehicles: Do not perform this procedure in the vicinity of other vehicles that are also in transmitter program mode to prevent accidental programming to the wrong vehicle.
Access BCM Configuration/Reset Functions: Using a scan tool, navigate to the Body Control Module Configuration/Reset Functions menu.
Select Add/Replace Key Fobs: Choose the Add/Replace Key Fobs option.
Select Erase/Program Fobs: Select Erase/Program Fobs. This will erase all learned transmitters and prepare the BCM to learn new ones.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the scan tool to complete the process.
Verify Operation: After programming all desired transmitters, cycle the ignition from ON to OFF, exit the vehicle, and test the transmitter functions to ensure correct system operation.

Adding Fobs to the Next Available Slot (Keeping Existing Fobs)

This procedure allows you to add new key fobs without erasing the existing ones. The new fobs will be programmed in the next available sequential slots (e.g., if two fobs are already programmed as 1 and 2, the next fob will be programmed as 3).

Avoid Programming Near Other Vehicles: As with the erase procedure, avoid programming in the vicinity of other vehicles in keyless entry program mode.
Access BCM Configuration/Reset Functions: Using a scan tool, navigate to the Body Control Module Configuration/Reset Functions menu.
Select Add/Replace Key Fobs: Choose the Add/Replace Key Fobs option.
Select Next Available Slot: Select Next Available Slot.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to program the new key fobs.
Verify Operation: After programming, cycle the ignition, exit the vehicle, and test the transmitter functions to verify proper operation.

Conclusion

Programming your 2011 Chevy Malibu 2.4 key fob requires specific tools and a detailed procedure. By carefully following these instructions and taking note of the important warnings, you can successfully program your key fob and regain full functionality. If you encounter difficulties or are uncomfortable performing these steps, it is always recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician or your local Chevrolet dealership for professional assistance.