2012-2015 Chevrolet Volt & Opel Ampera Key Fob Guide: Programming, Problems, and Costs

Symptoms of a Failing Key Fob

When the key fob for your 2012-2015 Chevrolet Volt or Opel Ampera begins to fail, the signs are usually noticeable and can become progressively worse. Recognizing them early can prevent you from being locked out or unable to start your car.

• "No Remote Detected" Message: The most common and direct symptom is a message on the Driver Information Center (DIC) stating "No Remote Detected" when you try to start the car. This indicates the vehicle cannot sense the fob's presence.
• Reduced Operating Range: You may find that you need to be much closer to the vehicle than usual for the lock, unlock, or remote start functions to work. A healthy fob should work from 30-60 feet away.
• Inconsistent or Delayed Response: The car may not respond to every button press, or there might be a significant delay. You might have to press a button multiple times to get a response.
• Passive Entry Failure: The buttons on the door handles may stop working to lock or unlock the car, even though the buttons on the fob itself still function.
• Complete Failure: In the final stages of failure, none of the buttons will work, and the car will not start without using the emergency backup procedure.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

While there are no specific recalls for the key fob itself on the 2012-2015 Chevrolet Volt or Opel Ampera, some related issues have been noted by owners.

• Opel Ampera Bumper Antenna: Some early Opel Ampera models have a known issue with a defective bumper antenna cable connection. This can lead to intermittent or complete failure of the keyless entry and starting system. The fix involves replacing the faulty cable, which is located behind the rear bumper.
• Signal Interference: As mentioned, aftermarket electronics plugged into the car's power outlets can sometimes generate radio frequency (RF) interference that disrupts the signal between the key fob and the car's receiver module. The receiver is located near the rearview mirror, so devices mounted on the windshield are common culprits.
• No Fob-Specific Recalls: Searches of NHTSA data and technical service bulletins (TSBs) do not show any recalls or widespread campaigns directly addressing the key fob for these models.

Buying a Used Door Lock Key: What to Check

Purchasing a used or recycled OEM key fob can be a great way to save money, but there are critical details to verify to ensure you get a compatible and functional part. Used OEM fobs are often more reliable than cheap, new aftermarket alternatives.

• Verify the FCC ID and Part Number: The most important step is to match the FCC ID. For North American Chevrolet Volts, the correct FCC ID is OHT05918179. The part number should also match; common compatible part numbers include 22923862, 22755321, and Strattec 5920157. Do not rely on appearance alone.
• Check the Frequency (Volt vs. Ampera): This is a major compatibility trap. North American Chevrolet Volts use a 315 MHz frequency. The European Opel Ampera uses a 433 MHz frequency. A fob from a European Ampera will NOT work with a North American Volt, and vice-versa. Always confirm the frequency with the seller if buying online from an international source.
• Inspect for Physical Damage: Check the fob's casing for cracks, especially around the area where the key ring attaches. Ensure the buttons are not excessively worn and still have a tactile 'click' when pressed. A rattling sound could indicate broken internal components.
• Confirm Reprogrammability: Unlike some manufacturers that lock fobs to a single vehicle, used key fobs for the 2012-2015 Volt and Ampera can be erased and reprogrammed to a new vehicle using the 30-minute DIY procedure.
• Generation Compatibility: This key fob is only for the first-generation Volt (2011-2015) and Ampera (2012-2015). It is not compatible with the second-generation Volt (2016 and newer), which uses a different fob design and system.

Replacement and Programming Guide

Replacing and programming a key fob for the Gen 1 Volt and Ampera can be done without a trip to the dealer, but the process requires patience and careful attention to detail.

Installation Difficulty: 2/5
Estimated Time: 45 minutes

Emergency Start Procedure (If Fob is Undetected)

If your fob battery is dead or the car won't detect it, you can still start the vehicle:

1. Use the physical key blade to manually unlock the driver's door. The alarm may sound.
2. Open the storage compartment on top of the center dashboard.
3. Remove the rubber mat inside.
4. You will see a small slot. Insert the key fob (or just its physical key blade) into this slot.
5. With your foot on the brake, press the POWER button. The car should now start.

DIY Programming Procedure (All Keys Lost/Adding a New Key)

This procedure is for programming keys when you have no currently recognized fobs.

1. With the vehicle off, take the physical key blade from your new or existing fob.
2. Insert the key into the driver's side exterior door lock cylinder.
3. Turn the key to the unlock position 5 times within 10 seconds.
4. The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display: "REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT".
5. Wait for 10 minutes. The DIC will then display: "PRESS START BUTTON TO LEARN". Press the POWER button on the center stack.
6. The DIC will again show "REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT". Wait another 10 minutes.
7. After 10 minutes, the DIC will again show "PRESS START BUTTON TO LEARN". Press the POWER button again.
8. The DIC will again show "REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT". Wait a final 10 minutes. After this third 10-minute cycle, all old fobs are erased.
9. The DIC should now display "READY FOR REMOTE #1". Place your first fob into the backup slot in the dashboard storage compartment.
10. Press and hold the POWER button for about 2 seconds. The DIC will confirm the fob is learned and then display "READY FOR REMOTE #2".
11. Remove the first fob and press the UNLOCK button on it to finalize.
12. To program additional fobs, repeat steps 9-11 for each one.
13. When all fobs are programmed, press and hold the POWER button for about 12 seconds to exit programming mode.

Cost Comparison

The cost of replacing a key fob can vary significantly depending on where you source the part and who does the programming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)