Key Fob Not Working high urgency

2024 Chevy Silverado Key Fob Not Working? Here’s How to Get Back In and Back on the Road

Key fob stopped functioning properly

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Use the mechanical key hidden in the fob to unlock the driver door (there’s a release on the fob to pull the key out), then try starting using the truck’s backup “fob not detected” procedure shown in your owner’s manual (often placing the fob in the designated pocket/area so the truck can read it).
  2. Replace the key fob battery with the correct coin cell (commonly CR2032 on many GM fobs—confirm for your exact fob), ensuring the battery is installed with correct polarity and the contacts are clean and tight.
  3. Try your spare fob (if you have one) and test in a different location away from strong RF sources (parking garages, cell towers, other key fobs, aftermarket electronics) to rule out interference; if both fobs fail, suspect a vehicle-side issue (receiver, module, or 12V battery).

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery and inspect the fob

Cost: $5-$20 Time: Varies

A weak or mis-seated coin-cell battery is the most common cause of a Silverado fob that won’t lock/unlock or won’t be detected. While replacing the battery, check for corrosion, bent terminals, cracked casing, or buttons stuck down from debris. If the fob works intermittently, cleaning the contacts and ensuring the case snaps fully closed can make the fix stick.

✓ Pros:
  • Cheapest and fastest fix
  • No programming required in most cases
  • Often restores full range and reliability
✗ Cons:
  • Won’t help if the fob is water-damaged or internally failed
  • Doesn’t address vehicle-side receiver/module issues

Use the backup start/unlock method and keep driving while you plan a permanent fix

Cost: $0-$20 Time: Varies

Even if the remote buttons don’t work, your Silverado can often still be started using the emergency detection method (placing the fob in the specified location so the vehicle can read it). This is a practical short-term approach if you need the truck running now and can unlock with the mechanical key. It buys time to compare costs for replacement and programming.

✓ Pros:
  • Gets you mobile quickly
  • No immediate service visit required
  • Reduces the chance you’ll pay rush pricing
✗ Cons:
  • Inconvenient for daily use
  • If the fob is fully dead or missing, this may not work

Reprogram/relearn the fob (when the fob is fine but no longer recognized)

Cost: $75-$200 Time: Varies

Sometimes a fob stops being recognized after a vehicle battery issue, module reset, or an electronic glitch. A relearn/programming session can restore communication between the fob and the truck’s security system. On newer vehicles like a 2024 Silverado, programming often requires professional-grade tools and access to GM security procedures.

✓ Pros:
  • Can restore a working fob without replacing it
  • Often resolves “fob not detected” with a good fob
  • Usually faster than ordering a new fob
✗ Cons:
  • May require specialized equipment/security access
  • If the fob hardware is failing, programming won’t help

Replace the key fob (new OEM-style fob) and program it to the truck

Cost: $200-$450 Time: Varies

If the fob is damaged, lost, or unreliable even after a battery change, replacement is the most dependable fix. For a 2024 Silverado, you’ll typically need the new fob cut (for the mechanical key insert, if applicable) and electronically programmed to the vehicle. Make sure the replacement matches your Silverado’s exact trim/features (remote start, power tailgate, etc.).

✓ Pros:
  • Most reliable long-term solution
  • Restores full functionality (lock/unlock/remote start/tailgate as equipped)
  • Reduces risk of intermittent failures
✗ Cons:
  • Highest cost option
  • Programming and key cutting may be required

Diagnose vehicle-side issues (12V battery, receiver, module, antenna, or wiring)

Cost: $50-$250 Time: Varies

If multiple fobs don’t work, the range is suddenly extremely short, or the truck shows repeated “No Remote Detected” messages, the problem may be in the Silverado itself. Common culprits include a weak 12V battery, poor ground connections, receiver/antenna issues, or a body control module-related fault. A proper scan for codes and a battery/charging system test can prevent unnecessary fob purchases.

✓ Pros:
  • Avoids wasting money on fobs when the truck is the issue
  • Can improve reliability beyond the key fob problem
  • Identifies warranty-eligible faults when applicable
✗ Cons:
  • Requires diagnostic time/tools
  • Repairs can become more expensive if modules/antennas are involved

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Avoid paying for a full key replacement before confirming it’s not just a $5 battery, dirty contacts, or interference (test your spare fob and try a different location first).

✕ Avoid buying the cheapest online fob without confirming the exact FCC ID/part compatibility for your 2024 Silverado and whether it can be programmed to your vehicle—many returns are denied once programming is attempted.

✕ Avoid forcing the fob case open with metal tools that can crack the housing or damage the circuit board; a small plastic pry tool and gentle pressure are safer.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

Frequently Asked Questions

My 2024 Silverado says “No Remote Detected.” Can I still start it?

Often, yes. GM vehicles typically have a backup detection method that lets the truck read the fob at close range (your owner’s manual shows the exact location/procedure for your Silverado). If the fob battery is weak, this method can still work even when the buttons don’t.

Why does my key fob only work when I’m right next to the truck?

That pattern usually points to a weak coin-cell battery, poor battery contact inside the fob, or interference. Replace the battery first, ensure the case is fully closed, and retest away from high-interference areas.

If I replace the fob, will it need programming on a 2024 Silverado?

In most cases, yes. Newer model-year vehicles commonly require electronic programming to pair the fob to the truck’s security system, and the mechanical key insert (if present) may also need cutting to match your door/ignition backup keyway.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

Get vehicle-specific key fob compatibility, part numbers, and a complete price comparison for your 2024 Chevrolet Silverado.

View Silverado Key Fob Guide →

Last updated: 2026-01-04