Tag: transmitter

Open a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Vauxhall or Opel

  • First note that if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
  • Second, for video help, click here.
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the mechanical keyVauxhall flip key

If the key fob or electronic key is not working, getting into your vehicle will require a mechanical key. Most Vauxhall and Opel models use a simple flip or fold out key fob. Push the button in the corner of the front of the fob (arrow, right) and the mechanical key will unfold.

Electronic key oneVauxhall rectangular key fobVauxhall electronic key 2It gets a little more complicated from here. There are four electronic key styles that have a mechanical key hiding inside. In the first three (right), the arrow points to a button or slide lever. Push the button or slide the lever and pull the key ring end to remove the mechanical key.

Astra van key fobThis fourth style is used exclusively in some Astra models and the mechanical key is hiding behind a cover. Press locking mechanism on back side and remove cap by pushing it gently forward. Push the mechanical  key towards the outside over the detent and pull it away.

Getting Inside

In most cases, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle. If this is the case, insert the mechanical key and turn, and you’re in.

Astra Insignia key holeIn some Astra and Insignia models, the key hole is hiding behind a cap at the back of the driver’s door handle. Look for a slot under the cap. Insert the mechanical key into the slot and again hold upward pressure. Then rotate the key upward until the cap comes away (right).

To replace the cap, insert it with the lower side in the recesses. The rotate it upwards and push it until the cap engages at the upper side.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

Other models covered here include the Ampera, Combo, Corsa, Crossland, Grandland, Mokka, Vivaro and Zafira.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/12/vauxhall-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Vauxhall or Opel

  • First note that if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
  • Second, for video help, click here.
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Vauxhall and Opel use several back up start methods for its push button start models. In each case described below, once the key fob is in place, the vehicle can recognize that it is present.Ampera back up start

The Ampera features a small hole in the storage compartment on the top of the dashboard. Flip open the mechanical key and push the key into the hole (right). Do NOT attempt to turn the mechanical key! Simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

Astra and Mokka back up start startAstra and Mokka models both use the front cup holder as a back up start location. Drop the key fob into the cup holder with the buttons facing up (right). Again, you can now simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button the start to car as normal.

Steering column back up spotThe Combo, Corsa, Crossland and Grandland models all share a common back up start process. Hold the electronic key with the buttons facing out on the marking on the steering column (right). Press the Start / Stop button with your other hand while stepping on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and the vehicle will start as normal. Note that the key fob must be held against the mark until the car starts.

Astra van Zafira back upThe Astra Van and Zafira models use a similar process, but the mark has a different appearance. The mark is round with a lock and lines radiating from it inside. And it is close to the Start / Stop button (right). Hold the electronic key with the buttons facing out on the mark. Press the Start / Stop button with your other hand while stepping on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and the vehicle will start as normal. Note again that the key fob must be held against the mark until the car starts.

Insignia back up locationThe Insignia model uses a unique back up location. There is a transmitter pocket behind the front cover of the center console in front of the shifter. Open it and place the electronic key on the spot with the buttons up (right). You can now simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

Vivaro back up startFinally, the Vivaro uses a slot above the Start / Stop button as a back up (right). The key fob must be slid into the the slot. Once it is there, you can step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/12/vauxhall-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Open a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Holden

  • But first, if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
  • Second, you’ll find video help here!
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the mechanical key

Holden flip keyHolden uses three key fob or transmitter styles. To get in the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead, a mechanical key will have to retrieved from the fob and used to unlock the car.

The first is a simple flip key (above right). Press the unmarked button to extend the mechanical key. It remains attached to the key fob. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

Holden remote controlHolden transmitterThe next two (shown to the right) feature a removable mechanical key and are quite similar (one has more buttons than the other). Each has a button on the side of the transmitter (remote control or ‘clicker’) near the key ring end. Press the button, as shown, and pull the key out.

Getting Inside

If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the mechanical and turn, and you’re in.

Holden door handle 1The CommodoreAcadia and and Equinox models are hiding their key holes behind a cover at the back of the driver’s door handle. To remove the cap on the Acadia and Equinox, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (number 3, right).

Push it as far upwards as possible and hold some upward pressure. Then pry outward. And yes, you WILL feel like you are prying off a piece of your car! Move the cap rearward revealing the key cylinder. Now the mechanical key can be used in the cylinder.

To replace the cap, insert the two tabs at the back of the cap between the black seal and the metal base. Pull the door handle out to the door open position and move the cap forward and press to snap it into place. You can then release the door handle.

Holden door handle 2The cap on the Commodore is slightly different but there is still a slot under the cap. Insert the mechanical key into the slot and again hold upward pressure. Then rotate the key upward until the cap comes away.

To replace the cap, insert it with the lower side in the recesses. The rotate it upwards and push it until the cap engages at the upper side.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/10/holden-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Holden

  • But first, if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
  • Second, you’ll find video help here!
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Holden uses three key fob styles (see Getting Inside) and many back up start variations, but we have them all here. If you have the right key fob, we’ll get you started and on the road, even if the fob’s internal battery is dead!

Commodore back-up start locationIn the Commodore, open the cover of the center console storage area in front of the shift lever. Place the transmitter in the transmitter pocket beside the power outlet, with the buttons facing up as shown in the image. Remove any additional items that might be in the area. Press the brake pedal and the engine Start / Stop button and you’ll be on your way.

Equinox back-up locationThe Equinox uses the left side cup holder as a back up location. Make sure there is nothing, particularly coins, in the cup holder, and simply drop the fob into it with the buttons facing up. The car will recognize the fob and pressing the brake pedal and Start / Stop ignition button will have you on your way.

Trax back-up locationThe Trax, also uses a cup holder as its back up spot. However, there are three cup holders in the center console area, and the choice is the front and is separated from the two behind it. Be sure to use the one in the very front (see the image to right). Drop the key fob into the front cup holder, buttons up, and start the car as normal, using the Start / Stop button while stepping on the brake pedal.

Spark back-up locationThe Spark uses a unique back up start location. The electronic key fob is placed in the center console transmitter pocket, which is in front of the cup holder and alongside the brake handle (image to the left). While in Park, press the brake pedal and press the engine Start/Stop button and you will be on your way.

Acadia back-up locationFinally, the Acadia uses a back up pocket located in the back of the center console (image to the right). Drop transmitter or key fob into the pocket with the key ring up and the buttons facing the front. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. Once again, you will be underway.

Engine Start Operation IndicatorNote: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/10/holden-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Start a Chevrolet with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Chevrolet with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Chevrolet

Chevrolet vehicles uses all three of the key fob styles made by General Motors. There are also way too many back up start variations, but we have them all here. And you can find a whole lot of videos here.

Inside door releaseHere’s the deal: Buckle up, find your model, and if your start battery is still good, we’ll get you underway. Note that they are generally presented as sedans, then SUVs then pick ups.

Corvette

The Coupes made by GM will show up early in this list, including the Corvette (C6, C7 and C8 models). So, note immediately that the latches are electronic and if the main 12-volt battery is dead and you’ve closed the door, the lever to the right is your only escape. You will find it below the door on the floor where you would expect to find a trunk release (right). Pull it up and the door will open. There’s another on the passenger side for that door.

The rectangular style key fob is used in most GM vehicles prior to 2014. GM start 3In Corvette models built before 2014 (C6), the pocket is on the left of the inside of the glove box. Place the transmitter in the pocket with the buttons facing the glove box storage area (right). Then, with the vehicle in P (Park) or N (Neutral), press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal.

In the 2014 (C7) Corvette, the transmitter pocket is moved to the right side of the steering column, as shown to the left. Place the Corvette start 2transmitter in the pocket with the buttons facing up. Again, with the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. Find a helpful video here. See below for the C8.

Newer, rounded “flip key” key fob and a rounded fob with a built in or pull away mechanical key, take over from here.

Camaro, later Corvette

Camaro slotPush button or keyless start is introduced to the Camaro in 2016. It also uses the cup holder as a back up slot, but to their credit, Chevrolet made this one simple. Make sure there is nothing, particularly coins, in the rear cup holder, and simply drop the fob into it. The car will recognize the key and a press of the brake pedal and Start / Stop ignition button will have you on your way. Corvettes (C8), 2020 – 2023, use this spot as well. In 2024, the Corvette spot is moved to the front cup holder.

Impala

Impala back up slotThe Impala uses a back up pocket located in the front of the center console (right). The model is using the flip key thus far through 2018. Drop transmitter into the pocket with the key ring up and the buttons facing out. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal.

Look for video help here.

Volt

With the first generation Volt, open the instrument panel GM start 5storage area located above the infotainment screen and remove the rubber mat. Extend the key blade and place the blade into the slot (right).

With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the POWER button on the center stack to start the vehicle.

Starting with model year 2016, the back-up location for the Volt is Volt fob pocketmoved to the center console, as shown. The rubber mat at the bottom of the console will need to be removed, and so anything actually in the console.

Bolt

This is also the location used by the new Bolt EV and Bolt EUV, which will be found beneath a pull-out tray.

The pocket for the fob or transmitter is beneath the pad or tray and to the front. It is also roughly the shape of the fob. Place the fob in the pocket and with the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the POWER button on the center stack to start the vehicle. We have a video of the process here.

Cruze

GM start 6The last flip key back-up start option belongs to the Cruze. You must remove the plastic trim piece from the small storage area next to the accessory power outlet near the front of the console. Extend the key blade and insert it into the transmitter slot (right). With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal.

Check out the video here.

Cruze back up spot 2The 2017 Cruze gets the new key and a new back up location, which is the front cup holder, as seen to the right. Sonic, Equinox and Blazer models now use this spot as well.

Simply drop the key fob into the front cup holder, buttons up, and start the car as normal, stepping on the brake and pushing the Start / Stop ignition button.

Blazer EV

Blazer EV back up spotThe 2024 Blazer Electric Vehicle (EV) is a different animal. Its back up spot is at the bottom of the center console storage area. Drop the key fob on the spot shown (right) with the buttons up.

And it starts differently as well. Once the key fob is in its spot, simply step on the brake. The instrument panel will tell you if you have been successful.

Trax

Trax back upThe Trax, which first saw push button start in 2017, also uses the front cup holder as its back up slot. However, there are three cup holders in the center console area, with the front one being separated from the two behind it. Be sure to use the one in the very front. See the image to right.

Drop the key fob into the front cup holder, buttons up, and start the car as normal, using the Start / Stop button while stepping on the brake pedal.

Check out a videos for all these models here.

Trailblazer

Trailblazer pocketThe new Trailblazer model has the back up pocket in front of the center console storage area and behind the the two cup holders on the console (image at right). Drop the key fob into the pocket or depression, The manual states that the buttons should be facing the front, but we don’t believe this is possible given the shape of the pocket. We also believe that it will not likely matter. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal.

Tahoe, Suburban

Until 2021, the large SUV’s from GM, including the Tahoe and Suburban, feature a transmitter Tahoe Escalade Suburban back-uppocket also located in the face of the front of the inside of the center console. However, the pocket points down, as shown to the right. Slide the transmitter into the pocket with the key ring facing out, buttons forward (in the Suburban we had on hand, the engine started with the buttons facing either way). It is a loose fit, so don’t be concerned. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. Check out the video here.

Traverse

Traverse back up slotIn the Chevrolet Traverse, through 2023, the transmitter pocket is at the bottom of the center console storage area, as seen in the image to the right. The outline of the transmitter will be visible to the front of the console. The 2024 Traverse uses the left or driver’s side cup holder, exactly like the Silverado EV below. Once the fob is in place, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal to start the vehicle.

Spark

Spark models also have what is called a transmitter pocket in the center console, but no image defining a location is Spark consoleshown in the manual. There are three storage spots in the console (see the red arrows), and one of them will be the “pocket” but none of them are actually marked. Drop the transmitter or key fob in the front storage spot first and attempt to start the car normally, with your foot on the brake and pressing the Start / Stop button.

If this does not work, move to the storage spot furthest back and try starting again. If the car again fails to start, try the longer storage spot alongside the emergency brake. If the starting problem is associated with a dead battery in the key fob, one of the three locations will work!

Silverado, Malibu

Malibu Impala back-upIn the Silverado pick up (note that the electric version is discussed below) and the Malibu sedan, the pocket for the transmitter is located in the face of the rear of the inside of the center console. Silverado gets push button start for the first time in 2019. Slide the transmitter into the pocket with the key ring facing up, and the buttons out (or however it will fit!).

The Silverado’s pocket is larger, as is the center console, which is actually the center seat in the bench seat. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and Silverado bucket pocketthe Start / Stop ignition button as normal. The pocket in 2021 Tahoe and Suburban models with a bench seat is also moved to this location, at the back of the console.

Tahoe, Suburban, later Silverado

If the Silverado, Tahoe or Suburban models have bucket seats, the pocket is found in or near the the two cup holders. In the Silverado, slip the key fob or transmitter into the insert between the cup holders (first image to the right). In the Tahoe or Suburban, as well as the Silverado EV, drop the Tahoe bucket pockettransmitter into the left side cup holder (second image below right).

Once again, with the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. The Silverado EV starts when the brake pedal is depressed.

And we have a video of the process here.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text Engine Start Operation Indicatormessage to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2015/01/general-motors-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii/

Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

GM makes three key GM Key Style 1fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) styles, and Chevrolet uses them all. To get in the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead, a mechanical key will have to retrieved from the fob and used to unlock the car.

For the rectangular style fob or transmitter press the thin button near the bottom of the transmitter (remote control or ‘clicker’) used to remove the mechanical key. Do not pull the mechanical key out without pressing the button.

GM Key Style 2In next style is a flip key, shown to the left, press the unmarked chrome button to extend the mechanical key. It remains attached to the key fob. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

GM Style 3The final rounded style key fob is similar to the rectangular fob, in that the mechanical key is removed from the fob for use getting into the vehicle. However, it is similar in appearance to Style 2. To remove the mechanical key, press the button on the side of the transmitter near the key ring, as shown, and pull the key out.

Getting Inside

If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the mechanical and turn, and you’re in.

Beginning with the 6th generation Corvette introduced in 2005 and adding the Cadillac CTS and ELR Coupes, no external door handle is obvious, and thus no backup entrance option. See below.

Then in the 2013, the Chevrolet Impala and followed by eight additional models the by 2017, the key hole was hidden. Sadly, more and more General Motors products will likely feature this unnecessary change going forward.

Impala, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Cruze, Camaro, Volt, Bolt

GM Lock Cover RemoveChevrolet models with traditional door handles but no obvious key holes or lock cylinders, hide the key holes under a cap at the back of the driver’s door. They include the Impala, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Cruze, Camaro and Volt as well as new Bolt model. To remove the cap, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (“3”, right).

Push it as far upwards as possible and hold that upward pressure. Then pry outward. And yes, you WILL feel like you are prying off a piece of your car! Move the cap rearward revealing the key cylinder. Now the mechanical key can be used in the cylinder. Look for a video here to help.

To replace the cap, insert the two tabs at the back of the cap between the black seal and the metal base. Pull the door handle out to the door open position and move the cap forward and press to snap it into place. You can then release the door handle.

Blazer capBlazer EV

The new Blazer EV offers a “twist” on a very similar cap. There is still a slot on the underside of the handle, but the cap is only about a 1/4 inch thick. Insert the mechanical key into the slot and turn it to release the cap. It can then be pulled away.

Blazer cap replaceTo replace the cap, insert it back into the grooves on the door handle. Push down on the cap until it clicks into place.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

Corvette

C8 Corvette lock cylinderCorvette models are a very different animals. The C6 through C8 models have  non-traditional, all electronic  locks, latches and door handles, if they can be called handles at all. The C8 does have a key cylinder, but it is found in the air inlet located on the body, behind and above the left door handle. See the image to the right. Insert the mechanical key and turn to open the car.

Coupe_flush_handleOlder C6 and C7 Corvette models, also have flush door handles (right image) with no key holes at all. They have a very different trick up their sleeves. You must use the mechanical key to open the trunk. The key hole is under the lip of the trunk lid facing the ground.

Corvette Open handleOnce the trunk is open, you will find a release handle. It is along the left wall of the trunk in the  Corvette (right).

Pull this release lever and the driver’s door will unlock, unlatch and open slightly and you’ll be in!

We have videos for the coupes here.

Related: Getting Out!

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/general-motors-dead-fob-help/