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Damaged Key Fob for a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado: What to Do Next

A damaged key fob on a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado can cause intermittent unlocking, remote start failures, or a “No Remote Detected” message. Physical impact, water exposure, and worn buttons are common causes. The right next steps depend on whether the truck still starts and whether the fob was exposed to moisture.

Understanding Your Situation

The fob’s case, buttons, battery contacts, or internal circuit board may be cracked, corroded, or misaligned—often after a drop, being crushed, or getting wet—leading to weak/no signal or unreliable operation.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Check if the truck starts with the fob held against/very near the start area (push-button start vehicles can often read a weak fob at close range). If it starts, drive somewhere safe to address the issue.
  2. Inspect the fob: look for a cracked shell, missing buttons, or signs of water (fogging, corrosion). If wet, remove the battery if possible and let the fob dry thoroughly before testing again.
  3. Replace the coin-cell battery with the correct type listed in your owner’s manual (commonly CR2032 on many GM fobs, but verify for your exact fob). Clean visible battery contacts gently with a dry cotton swab; reinstall and test lock/unlock and remote start.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery and/or repair the outer shell

Cost: $5-$40 Time: Same day

Install a new coin-cell battery and, if the case is cracked or buttons are torn, move the internal board into a new replacement shell (no programming if you reuse the original electronics).

âś“ Pros:
  • Lowest cost fix for many “dead” or intermittent fobs
  • No reprogramming needed if you keep the original circuit board
âś— Cons:
  • Won’t fix internal board damage or water corrosion
  • Cheap shells can fit poorly or have weak buttons

Professional key fob replacement and programming (locksmith)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day / 1-2 days

A mobile automotive locksmith supplies a compatible fob and programs it to your 2023 Silverado. They can also cut/prepare the emergency key insert if applicable.

âś“ Pros:
  • Often faster and less expensive than a dealership
  • Mobile service can come to your location
âś— Cons:
  • Quality varies—must confirm the fob is correct for 2023 Silverado and is new/usable for programming
  • Some situations may still require dealer involvement (module/security issues)

OEM key fob replacement and programming (Chevrolet dealer)

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

The dealer provides an OEM fob and programs it using GM service tools; they can also verify related issues (receiver, BCM, antenna, or software).

âś“ Pros:
  • Correct OEM part match and programming support
  • Best option if there are vehicle-side communication issues
âś— Cons:
  • Usually the highest cost option
  • May require an appointment and towing if you can’t start the truck

Add a spare key fob now (preventive)

Cost: $180-$500 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If you still have one working fob, add a second programmed fob as a backup before the damaged one fails completely.

âś“ Pros:
  • Avoids a no-start/no-entry emergency later
  • Often cheaper and easier while you still have a working fob
âś— Cons:
  • Upfront cost even if the damaged fob still works today
  • Programming requirements vary by trim and equipment

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t keep pressing buttons repeatedly if the fob is wet—powering a wet circuit board can accelerate corrosion or cause shorts.

✕ Don’t use heat guns, ovens, microwaves, or hair dryers on high heat to dry a fob; excessive heat can warp the case and damage the electronics.

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest “universal” or used fob online without confirming it’s compatible and programmable for a 2023 Silverado (some used fobs can’t be re-learned).

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Throwing away damaged key
  • Not salvaging electronics
  • Buying OEM when aftermarket works
  • Not considering case-only replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still start my 2023 Silverado if the key fob is damaged?

Often, yes—if the fob is still recognized at close range. Many push-button start systems can read a weak fob when it’s held very near the designated start/backup detection area. If the truck won’t detect any remote, you may need a replacement fob programmed to the vehicle.

If I replace just the battery, will I need to reprogram the fob?

In most cases, no. A battery change does not usually erase programming. If the fob still doesn’t work after a verified-good battery, the issue may be internal damage, corrosion, or a vehicle-side problem.

Is water damage fixable, or do I need a new key fob?

Light moisture exposure may be recoverable if you remove the battery quickly and dry the fob thoroughly, but corrosion can continue over time and cause intermittent failures. If you see corrosion on the battery contacts or the fob becomes unreliable, replacement is typically the most dependable solution.

Will an online key fob work for a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado?

Sometimes, but compatibility is critical. The fob must match your Silverado’s exact system (frequency, FCC ID/part number, and features like remote start). Some used fobs may be locked to a previous vehicle and not programmable. When in doubt, confirm fitment with a dealer or a reputable automotive locksmith before purchasing.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you only have one working key fob, treat damage as urgent—once it fails completely you may be locked out or unable to start the truck, which can require towing and higher costs. If the fob was exposed to water, remove the battery as soon as possible and plan for replacement if operation becomes intermittent.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2023 Chevrolet Silverado.

View Silverado Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04