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2023 Chevy Silverado Key Fob Not Working? Quick Fixes, Costs, and Next Steps

If your 2023 Chevrolet Silverado key fob suddenly won’t lock/unlock, remote start, or allow push-button starting, the cause is usually power, signal interference, or a fob/vehicle communication issue. The good news: many fixes take minutes and don’t require towing. Use the steps below to get back in and back on the road safely.

Understanding Your Situation

Most “key fob not working” problems on a 2023 Silverado come from a weak/dead coin-cell battery, a fob that’s been damaged (water drop/impact), radio interference, or the truck not detecting the fob due to a module/antenna issue. In some cases, the truck will still start using the emergency/backup starting method even if the buttons don’t work.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Try the backup start method: get inside, hold the fob against the designated key reader area (commonly inside the center console/cupholder area on many GM trucks) and press the brake, then press START. If it starts, your issue is likely the fob battery or fob signal.
  2. Replace the fob battery with a quality CR2032 (most Silverado fobs use CR2032, but confirm by opening the fob). After replacing, test lock/unlock and starting. Ensure the battery is installed with correct polarity and the fob shell is fully snapped closed.
  3. Rule out simple causes: try your spare fob, move the truck away from heavy RF sources (parking garages, cell towers, Wi‑Fi routers), and check the truck’s 12V battery condition (dim lights/slow crank can cause detection issues).

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (DIY)

Cost: $3-$12 Time: Same day

Open the fob, install a new coin-cell battery (commonly CR2032), and reassemble. Then test all buttons and starting. No programming is typically needed for a simple battery change.

✓ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • Fixes the most common cause
  • No special tools required
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t help if the fob is damaged or the truck can’t read the fob
  • Incorrect battery type/polarity can waste time

Use your spare key fob and replace/repair the original

Cost: $0-$40 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Test with the spare. If the spare works, the truck is likely fine and the original fob has a battery, button, or internal damage issue. Replace the battery, clean contacts, or replace the fob shell if buttons are worn.

✓ Pros:
  • Quick diagnosis (vehicle vs. fob)
  • Often avoids programming costs
  • Keeps you mobile immediately
✗ Cons:
  • Not an option if you don’t have a spare
  • Shell/button fixes don’t help if the electronics are faulty

Professional key fob replacement + programming (locksmith)

Cost: $180-$380 Time: Same day

An automotive locksmith supplies a compatible fob and programs it to your Silverado. They can usually come to you and confirm proper remote and immobilizer function.

✓ Pros:
  • Typically faster than dealer scheduling
  • Mobile service can avoid towing
  • Can cut/program additional keys at the same time
✗ Cons:
  • Quality varies—use a reputable, insured locksmith
  • Aftermarket fobs can have shorter range or button feel differences

Dealer diagnosis and OEM key fob replacement

Cost: $250-$550 Time: 1-3 days

A Chevrolet dealer verifies the issue (fob vs. vehicle), replaces with an OEM fob if needed, and programs it using GM tools. They can also check for vehicle-side issues (RKE receiver/antennas, BCM-related faults).

✓ Pros:
  • OEM parts and factory-level diagnostics
  • Best option if there’s a vehicle module/antenna problem
  • Documentation may help with warranty concerns
✗ Cons:
  • Usually higher cost
  • Appointment delays are common

Vehicle-side electrical diagnosis (if no fob works)

Cost: $120-$250 (diagnosis) + repairs Time: Same day / 1-3 days

If both fobs fail (and battery replacement doesn’t help), the truck may have a receiver/antenna, BCM, fuse, wiring, or low 12V battery issue. A shop tests the 12V battery/charging system, checks relevant fuses, scans for codes, and verifies RKE/PEPS antenna signals.

✓ Pros:
  • Targets the root cause when it’s not the fob
  • Prevents repeated spending on keys that won’t fix the issue
  • Improves overall reliability (battery/charging issues)
✗ Cons:
  • Final cost varies widely based on findings
  • May require parts ordering or additional labor

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t pry the fob aggressively with metal tools—broken clips and damaged circuit boards are common and can turn a cheap battery swap into a full replacement.

✕ Don’t buy the cheapest online fob without verifying FCC ID/part compatibility for a 2023 Silverado; mismatched fobs may not program or may have poor range.

✕ Don’t ignore a weak truck 12V battery—low system voltage can cause intermittent key detection and no-start symptoms.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming key is broken
  • Not checking battery first
  • Calling tow truck immediately
  • Replacing when reprogramming needed

Frequently Asked Questions

My 2023 Silverado says “No Remote Detected.” Will it still start?

Often, yes. Try the backup start method by placing/holding the fob at the truck’s designated key reader location (commonly in the center console/cupholder area on many GM trucks) and then press the brake and START. If it starts, replace the fob battery and retest.

If the buttons don’t work, does that always mean the fob battery is dead?

Not always. A dead battery is the most common cause, but interference, water damage, worn buttons, or a vehicle-side receiver/antenna issue can also stop the buttons from working. Testing your spare fob is a quick way to narrow it down.

What battery does a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado key fob use?

Many 2023 Silverado key fobs use a CR2032 coin-cell battery, but confirm by opening your fob or checking your owner’s manual because variants exist.

Do I need to reprogram the key fob after changing the battery?

Typically no. A battery change should not erase programming. If the fob still won’t work after a correct battery install, the fob may be damaged or the truck may need diagnosis.

Why does my key fob work sometimes and not others?

Intermittent operation is commonly caused by a weak fob battery, contamination/worn button contacts, or radio interference (dense parking areas, buildings, electronics). A weak truck 12V battery can also cause sporadic detection issues.

⏱️ Urgency Note: If you’re stranded, can’t start the truck, or the issue is intermittent (works sometimes), address it promptly—weak batteries and low vehicle voltage tend to get worse and can leave you stuck. If you suspect a vehicle 12V battery problem (slow crank, warning lights, repeated no-detect), avoid repeated start attempts and have the battery/charging system tested.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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

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Last updated: 2026-01-04