Is your 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS key fob no longer working, or did you recently acquire a new key fob that needs programming? You’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the process of programming your 1996 Impala Ss Key Fob yourself, saving you a trip to the dealership and potential service fees. Follow these straightforward steps to get your remote working again and regain convenient access to your vehicle’s features.
Step-by-Step Programming Instructions
This procedure applies to both sedan and wagon models of the 1996 Impala SS. Let’s get started:
1. Accessing the Programming Connector in Sedans
For sedan models, you’ll need to locate the programming connector in the rear compartment, commonly known as the trunk. Begin by repositioning the rear compartment trim on the left side. Look for a two-pin connector that is not connected to anything. This is the programming connector you need.
2. Accessing the Programming Connector in Wagons (If Applicable)
If you own a Wagon model, this step is for you; otherwise, skip to step 3. For wagon variants of the 1996 Impala SS, the programming connector is situated in a different location. You will need to remove the right back body pillar finish panel to gain access to it. Once removed, you should find the programming connector.
3. Grounding the Programming Connector
Now that you’ve located the programming connector (either in the sedan trunk or wagon pillar), the next step is to ground it. This is done by simply connecting the two terminals of the connector together. Upon successfully grounding the connector, your Impala SS system will automatically verify this action. You will observe a sequence of door lock and unlock cycles, specifically a “lock all,” followed by “unlock drivers door/unlock all,” and finally a trunk/endgate cycle. This sequence confirms that the system is ready for key fob programming.
4. Programming the First Transmitter
With the system in programming mode, take your first key fob transmitter and press any button on it. This action programs that specific transmitter to your vehicle’s receiver. To confirm successful programming, the system will again perform the same lock/unlock, lock/unlock cycle you witnessed in the previous step. This indicates that the first transmitter is now programmed and should operate your door locks and other remote functions.
5. Enabling or Disabling the Automatic Door Locking/Unlocking Function (Optional)
After programming a transmitter, the automatic door locking/unlocking function is automatically enabled. If you prefer to keep this function enabled, you can proceed directly to step 6. However, if you wish to disable this automatic function for the transmitter you just programmed, you need to perform the following sequence three times:
A. Press the door lock button within 1 second of step C (in the 2nd and 3rd repetitions of this sequence).
B. Press the door unlock button within 1 second of step A.
C. Press the trunk button within 1 second of step B.
If you successfully complete this sequence three times, the receiver will cycle through the lock, unlock, trunk sequence three times as verification, indicating that the automatic door locking/unlocking function has been disabled for this particular transmitter.
6. Programming a Second Transmitter (Optional)
If you have a second 1996 Impala SS key fob that you wish to program, repeat step 4 with the second transmitter. This will program the second remote to your vehicle’s system. If you only have one transmitter or do not need to program another, proceed to step 7.
7. Disconnecting the Programming Connector
Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, it is crucial to disconnect the programming connector. The system will not operate correctly if the ground connection remains in place. Simply disconnect the terminals from each other to remove the ground.
8. Verifying Operation
Now that the programming is complete and the connector is disconnected, test each programmed transmitter to verify proper operation. Ensure that the door lock, unlock, and trunk release buttons are functioning as expected on both key fobs.
9. Repositioning Sedan Rear Compartment Trim
For sedan owners, the final step is to reposition the rear compartment trim that you moved in step 1 to access the programming connector. Ensure it is securely back in its original position.
10. Installing Wagon Right Back Body Pillar Finish Panel (If Applicable)
For wagon owners who removed the right back body pillar finish panel in step 2, reinstall the panel. Make sure it is properly secured and flush with the surrounding trim.
Congratulations! You have successfully programmed your 1996 Impala SS key fob. Enjoy the convenience of your working remote!
