Replacing your 2012 Buick Regal key fob can seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that can be completed at home with the right instructions. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to successfully program new key fobs for your 2012 Buick Regal. It’s important to note that this procedure will erase all previously programmed keys, so ensure you have all key fobs you wish to program with you before starting. This process is designed to program the keyless entry functions and does not handle immobilizer information linked to the engine control module (ECM) and body control module (BCM). Whether you have existing working keys or not, this procedure will work. However, if you do have existing keys, keep them far away from the vehicle to prevent accidentally initiating the “Adding Keys” procedure instead. The new key fobs must have the same mechanical key cut as your original key.
To begin, insert the mechanical key part of your new key fob into the driver’s side door lock cylinder. Turn the key to the unlock position five times within a quick ten-second period. Once this is done, the Driver Information Center (DIC) inside your Buick Regal will display the message “Remote Learn Pending, Please Wait.”
You will now need to wait for ten minutes. After this initial ten-minute period, the DIC will change its message to “Press Engine Start Button To Learn.” At this point, press the ignition mode switch. The DIC will once again display “Remote Learn Pending, Please Wait.” Repeat this ten-minute waiting process, followed by pressing the ignition mode switch, two more times. This means you will undergo a total of three ten-minute waiting periods, totaling thirty minutes. This extended process is necessary to unlearn all previously programmed key fobs from your 2012 Buick Regal’s system.
After the final thirty-minute period, the DIC display will finally show “Ready For Remote # 1.” This indicates that the system is now prepared to learn new key fobs.
Now, locate the key pocket within your 2012 Buick Regal. This pocket is situated inside the center console storage area, specifically beneath the cup holder. To access it, you will need to remove the rubber cup holder liner.
With the key pocket exposed, place your new key fob directly into the pocket, ensuring that the button side of the fob is facing upwards. Once the key fob is correctly placed in the pocket, press the ignition mode switch. When the system successfully learns the key fob, the DIC will provide confirmation by indicating that it is “ready to program the next key.” Following successful programming, remove the key fob from the pocket and press the unlock button on the fob to confirm it is working.
If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat the process from placing the key in the key pocket (Steps 4 through 6 in this section) for each additional fob. Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, press and hold the ignition mode switch for approximately 5 seconds to exit the key fob programming mode.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace and program new key fobs for your 2012 Buick Regal, ensuring you maintain convenient access and control over your vehicle’s keyless entry system. Remember to always double-check that the new key fobs are compatible with your vehicle model and that the mechanical key cut matches your original key for proper function.
