Losing a key fob or buying a used car without one can be a real hassle. If you own a 2005 Chevy Impala and find yourself needing a new key fob, you might think a trip to the dealership and expensive programming fees are in your future. However, for the 2005 Impala equipped with Remote Keyless Entry (RPO code AU0), programming a new key fob is surprisingly straightforward and can be done in your own driveway. This guide will walk you through the process of programming a new 2005 Impala Key Fob, saving you time and money.
Identifying the Correct Key Fob for Your 2005 Impala
Before you begin the programming process, it’s crucial to ensure you have the correct key fob for your 2005 Chevy Impala. For models with the (AU0) Remote Keyless Entry option, you’ll need a fob with the part number 10443537 or KOBLEAR1XT. These part numbers are often found on the back of the key fob itself or listed in online marketplaces when purchasing a replacement.
Purchasing the correct 2005 Impala key fob is the first step. You can typically find these fobs online at retailers like eBay or Amazon, or from your local Chevrolet dealer. Buying online can often be more cost-effective, but ensure you are purchasing from a reputable seller to guarantee you receive a functioning and compatible fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Programming Your 2005 Impala Key Fob
Once you have the correct replacement 2005 Impala key fob, follow these simple steps to program it to your vehicle:
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Prepare Your Vehicle: Begin by turning your 2005 Chevy Impala’s ignition to the “ACC” (Accessory) or “ON” position. It’s important not to start the engine. Also, ensure your radio is turned off to avoid any distractions during the programming process.
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Access the Programming Menu: Locate the “DISP” button on your radio. Press and hold the DISP button for at least five seconds. Continue holding until the word “settings” appears on the radio display. This indicates you have entered the customization menu.
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Navigate to FOB PROG: Use the “SEEK” up or down arrow buttons on your radio to scroll through the settings menu. Keep pressing the “SEEK” buttons until you see “FOB PROG” displayed on the radio screen. This is the key fob programming option.
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Enter the Submenu: Once “FOB PROG” is displayed, press the “PREV” or “NEXT” button to enter the submenu. You will see the current selection, indicated by an asterisk, and the word “BEGIN” will be displayed. “BEGIN” signifies that the system is ready to learn new key fobs.
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Initiate Programming and Pair the First Fob: Press the “DISP” button again to start the programming sequence. The display will then flash the message “PUSH FOB”. At this point, take your first key fob and simultaneously press and hold both the “LOCK” and “UNLOCK” buttons together for approximately 15 seconds. After holding for 15 seconds, you should hear a chime sound. This chime confirms that the first transmitter (key fob) has been successfully learned by your 2005 Chevy Impala.
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Program Additional Fobs (Optional): If you have additional 2005 Impala key fobs to program (up to a maximum of four), repeat Step 5 for each additional fob. You do not need to press the “DISP” button again. Simply press and hold the “LOCK” and “UNLOCK” buttons on the next key fob you wish to program. Remember to do this for each fob you want to pair with your vehicle, up to the four-fob limit.
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Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, you can exit the programming mode. To do this, scroll through the radio menu using the “SEEK” buttons until you find “EXIT” displayed. Select “EXIT” to finalize the programming and return to the standard radio display.
Your 2005 Chevy Impala key fob programming is now complete! Test each fob to ensure they lock and unlock your doors remotely.
Tips and Troubleshooting
- Battery Check: If your new key fob is not programming or working after programming, ensure the battery in the fob is new and correctly installed. A low battery can sometimes prevent successful programming.
- Repeat Steps Carefully: If the programming fails on the first attempt, carefully reread and repeat each step. Ensure you are holding the correct buttons for the specified time and are in the correct vehicle mode (ACC or ON, engine off).
- Correct Fob: Double-check that you have the correct part number (10443537 or KOBLEAR1XT) for your 2005 Chevy Impala with RPO code AU0. Using an incorrect fob will prevent successful programming.
- Dealer Programming: In rare cases, or if you encounter persistent issues, you may need to visit a Chevrolet dealer for professional programming. However, for most 2005 Impala owners, this DIY method should be sufficient.
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily program a new 2005 Chevy Impala key fob yourself, saving you the expense of dealership programming and getting your remote keyless entry system back in action quickly.
