Lost your key fob or need to program a new one for your 2017 Chevy Impala? Programming your key fob can sometimes be done at home, saving you a trip to the dealership. This guide provides clear instructions based on the 2017 Chevy Impala owner’s manual, ensuring you have the correct procedure for your vehicle. Forget confusing online videos that may not apply to your specific model year. Let’s get your key fob programmed correctly.
Programming with Two Recognized Keys
If you already have two working key fobs, programming a new one is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully:
- Insert your first, already programmed key into the ignition and turn the key to the ON/RUN position.
- Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF, and remove the key.
- Within five seconds of removing the first key, insert your second, already programmed key into the ignition and turn it to the ON/RUN position.
- Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF, and remove the key.
- Now, within five seconds, insert the new key fob that you wish to program into the ignition and turn it to the ON/RUN position. Once the key fob is successfully programmed, the security light on your dashboard will turn off.
- If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat steps 1 through 3.
Alt text: Close-up of a 2017 Chevy Impala ignition switch with a key inserted, illustrating the key insertion point for key fob programming.
This method is quick and easy when you have two working keys. However, what if you don’t have two recognized keys?
Programming Without a Recognized Key
If you’ve lost all your key fobs or don’t have two working ones, the programming process is longer and requires patience. This procedure is necessary to program the first key fob when no recognized keys are available. Be aware that this process can take approximately 30 minutes to complete for the first key. Make sure your vehicle is off and all key fobs you want to program are with you before starting.
- Insert the new, unprogrammed vehicle key into the ignition.
- Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position. The security light will illuminate.
- Wait for 10 minutes until the security light turns off. It’s crucial to wait the full 10 minutes.
- Turn the ignition to the LOCK/OFF position.
- Repeat steps 2 through 4 two more times. This means you will go through the 10-minute wait period a total of three times.
- After the third 10-minute cycle, turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position. At this point, the new key should be learned, and any previously known keys will no longer work with your vehicle for security reasons.
Alt text: Dashboard view of a 2017 Chevrolet Impala with the security light illuminated, indicating the system status during the key fob programming procedure.
After successfully programming the first key fob using this method, you can program any remaining key fobs by following the “Programming with Two Recognized Keys” procedure outlined earlier.
When to Consider Professional Help
While these steps are based on the official 2017 Chevy Impala owner’s manual, key fob programming can sometimes be tricky. If you are unsure about any step or encounter difficulties, it might be worth contacting your local Chevrolet dealer. They have specialized equipment and expertise to program your key fobs efficiently. While there might be a cost involved, professional programming ensures the job is done correctly and can save you time and potential frustration. Especially if you are uncomfortable with the 30-minute procedure, a dealer can offer a quick and reliable solution.
