Is your Chevy HHR key fob acting up? Before you rush to the dealership and spend a fortune on a replacement and programming, you might be able to fix it yourself. Many Chevy HHR owners experience issues with their key fobs, but often the solution is simpler than you think. This guide will walk you through a common fix for a malfunctioning key fob and provide information on reprogramming if necessary.
One of the most frequent culprits behind a non-working key fob is battery corrosion. Over time, the contacts inside the fob can become corroded, preventing proper electrical connection even with a good battery. This issue is often overlooked, leading people to believe their fob is broken or needs reprogramming when a simple cleaning can resolve the problem.
Let’s start with cleaning the battery contacts, a straightforward process that could save you time and money.
Cleaning Corroded Battery Contacts in Your Chevy HHR Key Fob
This method is surprisingly effective and addresses a very common issue. Here’s how to do it:
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Open the Key Fob: The Chevy HHR key fob is designed to be opened. Use a dull knife or a similar tool to carefully pry it apart. You’ll notice a waterproof seal around the edge, so it might require a bit of pressure. Don’t worry about breaking it; if it’s already not working, there’s little to lose.
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Remove the Battery: Once opened, take out the battery. It’s likely a CR2032 battery, a common and inexpensive type. Consider replacing it with a new one to rule out a dead battery as the problem. You can find these batteries at most stores, or battery specialty stores like Batteries Plus if you need one quickly.
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Clean the Battery Contacts: Use a Q-tip and a small amount of lemon juice. Gently wipe all the battery contact points inside the fob. There are typically three: two prongs and a base contact. Corrosion often builds up on the base.
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Dry and Reassemble: Use the dry end of the Q-tip to dry the contacts thoroughly. Replace the battery and carefully snap the key fob back together.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try using your key fob with your Chevy HHR again. In many cases, cleaning the contacts is enough to restore functionality.
Alt text: Close-up of the inside of a Chevy HHR key fob showing the battery compartment and contact points.
When Cleaning Isn’t Enough: Reprogramming Your Chevy HHR Key Fob
If cleaning the battery contacts doesn’t solve the problem, or if you’ve replaced your key fob, you might need to program or reprogram it to your Chevy HHR.
Dealership Programming: The most reliable method for programming a Chevy HHR key fob is through a dealership. They have the specialized tools and equipment necessary to ensure the programming is done correctly. However, as mentioned in the original post, dealership programming can be expensive.
DIY Programming (Potentially): While some vehicles allow for DIY key fob programming through onboard procedures, it’s less common for newer models like the Chevy HHR. It’s worth checking your owner’s manual or searching online for specific DIY programming instructions for your HHR model year. However, be aware that DIY methods can be unreliable, and dealership programming is often required, especially for security reasons.
Additional Tips:
- Check for Unsoldered Prongs: If cleaning doesn’t work, another potential issue is a prong inside the fob becoming unsoldered. Battery specialty stores like Batteries Plus may be able to check this for you and potentially resolder it at a low cost.
By trying these steps, you can troubleshoot and potentially fix your Chevy HHR key fob yourself. Starting with cleaning the battery contacts is a simple first step that can save you from unnecessary expenses. If you do need programming, be informed about your options and compare costs before making a decision.
