Do you need to program a new key fob for your 2013 Cadillac? Whether you have a working remote or have lost all of your key fobs, this guide provides comprehensive instructions to get you back on the road. This article focuses on programming remote transmitters for Cadillac vehicles with push-button start ignition systems that use keys similar to those pictured below.
Before starting, it’s important to read through the entire procedure to understand each step. For vehicle-specific instructions, you can also refer to your Cadillac owner’s manual. Ensure you have all remote transmitters you intend to program with you, including both currently working remotes and any new ones.
Programming with a Working Remote
This procedure is applicable if you already have at least one programmed and functioning key fob for your 2013 Cadillac.
- Ensure the ignition is switched OFF.
- Place the working remote into the cupholder of your Cadillac.
- Insert the mechanical key blade into the driver’s side door lock. (For 2-door models, use the trunk lock. Extract the metal key blade from the transmitter by pressing the release button on the front of the key fob).
- Turn the key blade in the door lock to the unlock position a total of 5 times within 10 seconds. The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display “READY TO LEARN ELECTRONIC KEY #2, 3, 4, ETC.”
- Take the new key fob and place it into the center console transmitter pocket. (Open the storage area in the center console and remove the storage tray to access the transmitter pocket).
- Press the ignition button. Once the new transmitter is successfully programmed, the DIC will indicate that it is ready to program the next transmitter.
- Remove the newly programmed transmitter from the transmitter pocket and press the UNLOCK button on the remote to confirm.
- Repeat steps 4 through 7 for each additional key fob you need to program.
- To exit the programming mode, press and hold the ignition button for 5 seconds.
- Test each of the programmed remotes to verify they are working correctly with your 2013 Cadillac.
Programming When No Working Remotes Are Available
Important Note: This particular feature might not be available in Canada. This procedure is also more time-consuming, taking approximately 30-35 minutes to program a key. Furthermore, the insert key blade needs to be cut to match your vehicle’s locks before starting this procedure.
- Ensure the ignition is switched OFF. Have all new remote transmitters you wish to program with you.
- Insert the cut key blade into the driver’s door lock (or trunk lock for 2-door vehicles). Remember to pull the metal key blade out of the transmitter using the release button.
- Turn the key blade in the door lock to the unlock position 5 times within 10 seconds. The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.”
- Wait for ten minutes. The DIC display will change to “PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN.” Press the ignition button at this time.
- The DIC will again show “REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.”
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 two additional times (for a total of three 10-minute waiting periods).
- After the third waiting period and ignition press, all previously programmed transmitters will be erased and will no longer function with your vehicle. The system is now ready to learn new transmitters. The DIC should display “READY FOR REMOTE # 1.”
- Place the new transmitter into the center console transmitter pocket.
- Press the ignition button. When the new transmitter is programmed, the DIC will show that it is ready for the next remote.
- Remove the programmed transmitter from the pocket and press the UNLOCK button.
- Repeat steps 8, 9, and 10 for each additional transmitter you need to program.
- To exit programming mode, press and hold the ignition button for 5 seconds.
- Test all programmed remotes to ensure they are functioning as expected.
Note: If you prefer professional assistance, remote transmitters for your 2013 Cadillac can also be programmed using specialized diagnostic equipment by a qualified automotive locksmith or a Cadillac dealership.
