Programming your key fob for a 2013 Buick LaCrosse might seem daunting, but in many cases, it’s a task you can handle yourself. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you program your key fob, whether you’re adding a new key or replacing a lost one. Understanding the type of key you have and whether you have an existing programmed key is crucial for a successful programming process.
For 2013 Buick LaCrosse models, there are primarily two types of keys: flip keys (or standard keys) and smart keys (keyless access). The programming procedure differs based on which type you have and your current situation.
Programming a Flip Key or Standard Key
Lost All Keys Scenario:
If you’ve lost all your flip keys or standard keys for your 2013 Buick LaCrosse, unfortunately, DIY programming is not an option. Due to security measures, programming new keys when all are lost requires specialized equipment that is typically only accessible to automotive locksmiths or dealerships.
- Find a Qualified Locksmith: Your first step is to locate a reliable automotive locksmith in your area. A great resource for this is LocateALocksmith.com. This website can help you find certified locksmiths near you.
- Consider Visiting the Locksmith: If your Buick LaCrosse is still operational, driving it to the locksmith’s location can often be more cost-effective than requesting a mobile service. Mobile locksmith services may incur additional fees for travel.
- Professional Programming: The locksmith will use professional-grade computer diagnostic tools to connect to your vehicle’s onboard computer. This equipment allows them to bypass security protocols and program new keys specifically for your 2013 Buick LaCrosse.
Adding an Extra Key with an Existing Programmed Key:
If you already have at least one functioning, programmed flip key or standard key and wish to add an additional key, you can follow these steps for DIY programming:
- Ignition ON with Original Key: Insert your existing, programmed key into the ignition. Turn the key to the “ON/RUN” position. This is the position just before you would start the engine.
- Turn Off and Remove Key: Turn the ignition key back to the “LOCK/OFF” position and remove the key from the ignition.
- Program New Key: Immediately insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition. Turn this new key to the “ON/RUN” position within five seconds of removing the original key.
- Wait for Security Light: Keep the new key in the “ON/RUN” position. The security light on your dashboard should turn off once the new key has been successfully programmed. This indicates that the vehicle has recognized the new key.
- Repeat for More Keys: If you need to program additional keys, repeat steps 1 through 3.
Programming a Smart Key (Keyless Access Vehicles)
Lost All Smart Keys Scenario:
Similar to flip keys, if you have a 2013 Buick LaCrosse with keyless access and have lost all your smart keys, the programming process is more involved and requires a specific procedure.
- Manual Door Lock Cycling: Take the key portion of your new smart key transmitter and insert it into the driver’s side door lock cylinder. Cycle the lock to the “unlock” position five times within a 10-second period.
- Wait for “Remote Learn Pending” Message: After cycling the lock, the Driver Information Center (DIC) on your dashboard should display the message “Remote Learn Pending. Please Wait.”
- 10-Minute Wait and Ignition Press: Wait for approximately 10 minutes. The DIC message will change to “Press Engine Start Button Learn.” Once you see this message, press the engine start button. The DIC will revert to displaying “Remote Learn Pending. Please Wait.”
- Repeat Wait and Press Twice: Repeat step 3 two more times. This means you will go through the 10-minute wait and engine start button press cycle a total of three times. After the third cycle, the DIC will display “Ready For Remote #1.” This indicates that all previously programmed transmitters are now erased and the system is ready to learn new ones.
- Place Transmitter in Pocket: Locate the transmitter pocket. In the 2013 Buick LaCrosse, this pocket is typically located inside the center console, underneath the cupholder. You may need to pull out the cupholder to access it. Place the new smart key transmitter into this pocket.
- Press Ignition Button to Learn: Press the ignition button. When the transmitter is successfully learned, the DIC will display “Ready For Remote #2” (or the next available remote number if you are programming multiple keys).
- Remove and Test: Remove the transmitter from the pocket and press the “unlock” button on the transmitter to ensure it is working correctly.
- Program Additional Transmitters: If you need to program more smart keys, repeat steps 5-7.
- Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all desired transmitters, press and hold the ignition button for 5 seconds to exit the programming mode.
Adding an Extra Smart Key with an Existing Programmed Smart Key:
If you possess a working smart key and wish to program an additional smart key for your 2013 Buick LaCrosse, follow these steps:
- Place Original Transmitter in Cupholder: Start by placing your original, working smart key transmitter in the cupholder.
- Door Lock Cycling with New Key: Take the key portion of the new smart key transmitter and insert it into the driver’s side door lock cylinder. Cycle it to the “unlock” position five times within 10 seconds. The DIC should display “Ready For Remote #2, 3, 4, or 5.”
- Place New Transmitter in Pocket: Place the new smart key transmitter into the transmitter pocket located in the center console under the cupholder.
- Press Ignition Button to Learn: Press the ignition button. Once the new transmitter is learned, the DIC will show “Ready For Remote # (next transmitter),” indicating the next available remote slot.
- Remove and Test: Remove the transmitter from the pocket and press the unlock button to test if programming was successful.
- Program More Keys: Repeat steps 3 to 5 if you have more transmitters to program.
- Exit Programming Mode: To exit the programming mode, press and hold the ignition button for 5 seconds.
By following these instructions carefully, you can program a key fob for your 2013 Buick LaCrosse. Remember to always double-check the steps and ensure you are performing the correct procedure for your specific key type and situation. If you encounter any issues or are unsure about any step, consulting a professional locksmith or your Buick dealership is always a wise decision.
