Lost or need a spare key fob for your 1999 Chevy Tahoe? Programming a new key fob for your 1999 Tahoe can be a straightforward process you can do yourself, potentially saving you a trip to the dealership. This guide provides comprehensive instructions to program your 1999 Chevy Tahoe key fob, ensuring you regain convenient keyless entry.
Understanding Your 1999 Tahoe Key Fob Programming
Before you begin, it’s important to understand that programming a 1999 Tahoe Key Fob involves entering a programming mode on your vehicle and then syncing the new remote. This procedure is designed for DIYers and doesn’t require any specialized tools beyond a simple jumper wire.
Step-by-Step Programming Instructions for Your 1999 Tahoe Key Fob
Follow these steps to program your 1999 Tahoe key fob. These instructions are applicable to both base and luxury models of the 1999 Chevy Tahoe as the programming procedure remains consistent.
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Locate the Data Link Connector (DLC): The DLC, or diagnostic port, is typically located under the driver’s side dashboard. It’s a 16-pin connector used for vehicle diagnostics.
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Prepare to Ground the DLC: You will need a jumper wire or a paper clip to ground pin 4 to pin 8 of the DLC. Pin 4 is the ground pin, and pin 8 is the chassis ground.
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Initiate Programming Mode:
- Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position. You can also try the “ON” position if you prefer to disable the horn chirp during programming (though horn chirp is helpful feedback).
- Use your jumper wire to connect pin 4 to pin 8 of the DLC.
- Listen for the Response: Upon grounding the pins, the vehicle should respond by locking and unlocking the doors and potentially activating the liftgate window release (if equipped). This indicates that the receiver has entered programming mode. This should happen within 2 seconds of grounding the pins.
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Program the First Key Fob:
- Take your first key fob (this can be the new one or one you are reprogramming).
- Simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the key fob.
- Continue holding both buttons until the door locks cycle again (lock and then unlock). This usually takes approximately 10 seconds. This confirms that the first transmitter is programmed.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (If Necessary):
- If you have additional key fobs to program (up to a total of four), repeat step 4 for each additional remote. It’s crucial to program all remotes you want to use at this time, as the system will only recognize the remotes programmed during this session.
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Exit Programming Mode:
- Remove the jumper wire from the DLC, disconnecting pins 4 and 8. This will exit the programming mode.
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Verify Key Fob Operation:
- Test each programmed key fob to ensure it is working correctly.
- Press the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons to verify door lock operation.
- Activate the rear window release button (if your Tahoe is equipped) to confirm its function.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter issues during the programming process, consider these troubleshooting tips:
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No Response from Door Locks:
- Check DLC Connection: Ensure you have correctly grounded pin 4 to pin 8 of the DLC. Double-check your jumper wire and connections.
- Key Fob Battery: Verify that the battery in your new key fob is new and properly installed.
- Receiver Malfunction: In rare cases, the remote receiver in your Tahoe may be faulty. If the doors don’t cycle when grounding the DLC pins, this could be the issue.
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Key Fob Not Programming:
- Simultaneous Button Press: Make sure you are pressing and holding the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously and for the correct duration (around 10 seconds).
- Incorrect Key Fob: Confirm that the key fob you purchased is compatible with a 1999 Chevy Tahoe. While GM P/N 12490830 is mentioned as a compatible part, there might be other compatible part numbers as well. However, using an incompatible key fob will prevent successful programming.
- Programming Limit Reached: The system may have reached its limit of four programmed key fobs. If you are trying to program more than four, it won’t work.
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Horn Chirp Issues:
- The instructions mention that the horn chirp might be disabled if the key is in the “ON” position during programming. If you want the horn chirp feedback, ensure the key is in the “OFF” position during the process.
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Important Notes
- Program All Remotes: Remember to program all of your key fobs (including existing working ones and new ones) during the same programming session. Any remotes not programmed at this time will not function and will need to be reprogrammed.
- Professional Assistance: If you are still having trouble programming your 1999 Tahoe key fob, or if you are uncomfortable performing these steps yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic or your local Chevy dealership. They have specialized tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve key fob programming issues.
By following these instructions, you should be able to successfully program your 1999 Chevy Tahoe key fob and enjoy the convenience of keyless entry once again.
