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Chevy keys replacement
Here at Red Key LLC in Rochester, we often see clients who have come to us to cut a blank Chevy key replacement that they purchased online. Unfortunately, because it can be tricky to know which car key is actually compatible, we sometimes have to tell these folks that they’ve ordered the wrong kind.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common key replacements for Chevrolet so that you have a better chance of ordering the right kind.
Manual keys for classic Chevys and models up to 2005
If your Chevy was made before the rollout of modern key fobs, it’s likely to have a manual metal key, such as one of the following:
Strattec P1098A – B48
The Strattec GM B48 key is compatible with a wide range of classic cars, including ones built by Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac, and of course, Chevrolet.
Some models covered under this key include the Chevy Camaro from 1970 to 1988, the Impala between 1975 to 1985 and the Silverado from 1970 to 1994.
Ilco B91-P
This plastic head metal key made by the brand Ilco is compatible with a range of Chevys made in the late 90s and early 2000s. For instance, it covers the Chevy Malibu between 1997 and 2005, and the Impala, Monte Carlo, and Caprice between 2000 and 2005.
High security keys for Chevys between 1990 and 2020
Around the early 2000s, Chevy started to introduce more security into their keys with laser-cut key blades and transponder chips. Here are a few of those models:
GM Transponder Key B111
The B111 comes with a programmable transponder chip that is compatible with certain Chevy anti-theft technology. In particular, this Chevy key replacement can be programmed to the Chevy Avalanche from 2007 to 2013, the Cobalt from 2006 to 2010, the Impala from 2006 to 2013, the Malibu from 2004 to 2012, the Silverado from 2007 to 2014, and more.
Ilco GM P1116/B119
This high security metal key is compatible with some of Chevy’s most popular models from 2010 to 2020, including the Chevy Camaro (2010-2020), Equinox (2010-2020), Impala (2014-2020), Malibu (2012-2020), Silverado (2014-2020), Suburban (2015-2020), and Tahoe (2015-2020). As a high security key, it must be cut by a locksmith that has the right laser car key cutting equipment.
Key fobs for Chevys between 2000 and 2015
Around 2010, Chevy started to introduce proximity key fobs as a replacement for transponder keys. If your model came with one of these fobs, you’ll likely need one of the following replacements:
Ilco PRX-CHEVY-XXX
Not all Chevys built after 2010 will use the same key fob, so you’ll have to pay close attention to the last three numbers and letters in the PRX-CHEVY series. For instance, the PRX-CHEVY-5B5 is a 5 button proximity key compatible with the Chevrolet Volt between 2011 and 2015. The PRX-CHEVY-6B1, on the other hand, is a 6 button proximity key for use with the Chevy Suburban from 2015 to 2020 and the Tahoe from 2015 to 2019. Another example would be the PRX-CHEVY-3B1 which is a 3 button proximity key compatible with the Equinox from 2018 to 2020, the Sonic from 2017 to 2019 and the Spark from 2016 to 2020.
Next steps in Chevy key replacement
Once you’ve ordered your car key replacement for your Chevy model and year, there are still a few steps you’ll need to take before you can use the new set.
For starters, all blank keys, from classic Chevy’s to modern ones, will need to be cut. High security keys, which come with a smooth rectangular metal blade, will need to be cut with a specialized laser cutting machine.
In the case of keys with a plastic head or casing, there is another step after cutting the blade. For instance, if your car uses a transponder key, your local auto locksmith or dealership will need to program the chip inside the key for your car. Likewise, a fob or proximity key will need to be programmed to your car’s operating system using a specialized machine.
Still unsure of what car key you need? Leave it up to us!
While the internet makes it more convenient and affordable to order a blank key, the fact is, knowing exactly which replacement you need can be a difficult process. You can save yourself the stress and hassle of wondering whether a particular key really is compatible with your Chevy by relying on your local auto locksmith to oversee the process. Our team here at Red Key LLC in Rochester will be able to easily verify the exact blank key you need, cut it, and reprogram it so that you can have your keys fast. We’ll even come to you wherever you are in Rochester to program the keys on site.
The next time you need Chevy key replacement, call Red Key serving Rochester NY and Monroe County!
