Key fobs, also known as keyless entry remotes or transmitters, offer convenient control over your vehicle’s locking system, trunk access, and alarm, all from a distance. For a key fob to function with your car, it needs to be properly programmed to establish a connection. Whether you have a new replacement fob or need to reprogram an existing one, the process is straightforward and can typically be done at home with a few easy steps. This guide will walk you through programming your GM key fob, ensuring seamless access to your vehicle.
Before You Begin: Essential Checks
The most common culprit for a non-working keyless entry remote is a depleted battery, either in the fob itself or the vehicle. If you’re attempting to reprogram an original key fob, first verify that its battery isn’t dead. Similarly, new or replacement key fobs require a functioning battery to operate, so ensure a fresh battery is installed before you start the programming process.
You won’t need any specialized tools for this procedure. Simply follow the easy-to-understand steps outlined below. It’s important to note that you will not need to start the engine during this process; you’ll only need to turn the ignition key to the ON or OFF positions as instructed. This method is applicable for a wide range of GM vehicles, including popular brands like Chevrolet (Chevy), GMC, and more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Programming Your GM Key Fob
Follow these nine simple steps to program your GM key fob effectively:
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Get Comfortable in the Driver’s Seat: Begin by sitting in the driver’s seat of your GM vehicle and ensure that all doors are completely closed. This is a crucial preliminary step for successful programming.
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Insert Your Key into the Ignition: Insert your vehicle’s ignition key into the ignition system. Be ready to proceed to the next steps swiftly.
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Press and Hold the Unlock Button: Locate the vehicle’s power unlock button switch, usually found on the driver’s side door panel. Press and hold this button down throughout the next step.
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Cycle the Ignition Key: While continuously holding the door unlock button, rapidly cycle the ignition key twice between the ON and OFF positions. Turn the key to the ON position, then immediately back to OFF, and repeat this sequence once more (ON, OFF, ON, OFF). Do not start the engine; simply cycle the ignition.
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Release the Unlock Button and Wait for Confirmation: Release the door unlock button you have been holding. At this point, the vehicle’s doors should automatically lock and then unlock. This automatic lock and unlock sequence serves as confirmation that your vehicle has successfully entered the key fob programming mode.
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Program Your Key Fob(s): Immediately after the confirmation in the previous step, take your key fob and press and hold down both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously for approximately 15 seconds. If the key fob is successfully programmed, the vehicle doors will once again lock and unlock to confirm the link.
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Program Additional Key Fobs (If Necessary): If you have additional key fobs that you wish to program to your vehicle, repeat the previous step (step 6) for each additional key fob. Make sure to complete this step for all fobs you want to program during this programming session.
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Exit Programming Mode: To finalize the programming process and exit programming mode, turn the ignition key to the RUN position. This action will signal to the vehicle that you have completed the key fob programming.
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Test Your Key Fob: Finally, test each of your programmed key fobs to ensure they are working correctly. Try locking and unlocking the doors, activating the trunk release, and if applicable, testing the panic alarm function. If all functions operate as expected, you have successfully programmed your GM key fob.
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily program your GM key fob at home, restoring the convenience of keyless entry to your vehicle.
