Is your 2009 GMC Sierra key fob suddenly not working? Before you rush to a dealership, you might be able to reprogram it yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps to program a new or existing key fob for your 2009 GMC Sierra, potentially saving you time and money. While this process focuses on reprogramming, remember that a common culprit for a non-responsive key fob is often just a dead battery. So, consider checking or even replacing your 2009 Gmc Sierra Key Fob Battery before attempting to reprogram.
Programming Instructions for GMC Sierra with Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons
If your 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with Driver Information Center buttons on the steering wheel, follow these steps to program your key fob:
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Turn the Ignition to ON: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position. This is the position right before you start the engine. You need to be able to access the Driver Information Center display.
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Access Vehicle Information Menu: Press the vehicle information button (usually marked with a car or “INFO”) repeatedly until you see “PRESS TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY” displayed on the DIC screen.
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Initiate Relearn Mode: Press and hold the set/reset button (often labeled “SET” or “RESET”) until the DIC screen shows “REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE”. You are now in the key fob programming mode.
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Program the First Key Fob: Take the key fob you want to program. Simultaneously press and hold both the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob for about 15 seconds. You should hear a chime sound, indicating that the key fob has been successfully programmed.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (Optional): If you have more key fobs to program, repeat step 4 immediately for each additional key fob. A 2009 GMC Sierra can have up to eight key fobs programmed to it.
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Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the ignition.
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Test Your Key Fobs: Test all programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly by locking and unlocking the doors, and activating other remote functions.
Programming Instructions for GMC Sierra without Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons
If your 2009 GMC Sierra does not have Driver Information Center buttons, use this procedure instead:
- Turn the Ignition to ON and Access Relearn Mode: Ensure your vehicle is in “Park” (P). Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position (just before starting the engine). Press and release the trip odometer reset stem repeatedly until “RELEARN REMOTE KEY” is displayed in the instrument cluster.
- Activate Learning Mode: Press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for about three seconds. The message “REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE” will appear, indicating the system is ready to program key fobs.
- Program the First Key Fob: Take the key fob you want to program. Press and hold both the lock and unlock buttons simultaneously for approximately 15 seconds. A chime sound should confirm that the key fob is programmed.
- Program Additional Key Fobs (Optional): To program more key fobs, repeat step 3 for each additional remote within the programming session. You can program up to eight remotes in total.
- Exit Programming Mode and Test: Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key. Test all programmed key fobs to verify they are functioning properly.
Is it Time for a New 2009 GMC Sierra Key Fob Battery?
If you’re experiencing issues with your key fob range or inconsistent operation, a low battery is a likely cause. The 2009 GMC Sierra key fob battery is a common CR2032 type battery, readily available at most drugstores, grocery stores, and online retailers. Replacing the battery is a simple process. Typically, you’ll need a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob case, remove the old battery, and insert the new one, ensuring correct polarity (+ side up). Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on battery replacement for your key fob model. Sometimes, a fresh 2009 GMC Sierra key fob battery is all you need to restore full functionality, without even needing to reprogram!
Conclusion
Programming your 2009 GMC Sierra key fob can be a straightforward process, especially if you follow these step-by-step instructions. Remember to test your key fobs after programming to ensure they are working as expected. If you continue to experience problems after reprogramming and replacing the battery, there might be a more complex issue, and it’s advisable to consult with a qualified automotive technician or your GMC dealer for further assistance.
