It’s frustrating when your keyless entry stops working, especially after you’ve already tried replacing the battery. You’re not alone! Many 1999 Chevy Suburban owners encounter issues with their key fobs. Let’s dive into troubleshooting steps and expert tips to get your 1999 Chevy Suburban Key Fob working again.
You mentioned trying online instructions to reprogram your key fob, but the door locks didn’t respond as expected. Let’s verify those instructions and explore potential reasons why they might not be working for your 1999 Chevy Suburban.
Verifying the Key Fob Programming Instructions for a 1999 Chevy Suburban
The instructions you found are a common method for programming key fobs for many GM vehicles of that era, including the 1999 Chevy Suburban. Let’s break them down and confirm their accuracy:
- Close all vehicle doors. This is crucial to ensure the system is in the correct state for programming.
- Insert the ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder – do not turn ignition switch. The key needs to be in the ignition to activate the vehicle’s electronics but not start the engine.
- Press and hold the DOOR unlock switch (on the door, NOT the remote). This step initiates the programming sequence.
- While holding the DOOR unlock switch, cycle the ignition ON, OFF, ON, OFF, ON, OFF (3 TIMES). This rapid cycling is the signal to put the vehicle into programming mode. “ON” means turning the key to the “RUN” position (just before starting the engine), and “OFF” is turning it back to the “OFF” position, but not removing the key.
- Release the DOOR unlock switch. After cycling the ignition, releasing the unlock switch should trigger the confirmation.
- The doors will lock and unlock one time to confirm the program mode is actuated. This is the critical confirmation step you mentioned not experiencing. If your doors didn’t lock and unlock at this point, it indicates the vehicle didn’t enter programming mode.
- Remove the key from the ignition. This prepares the system to learn the new key fob signal.
- Simultaneously press and hold the LOCK button and the UNLOCK button on one key less remote for approximately 15 seconds. This step transmits the programming signal from your 1999 Chevy Suburban key fob to the vehicle’s receiver.
- The doors will lock and unlock to confirm the programming of that transmitter. Another confirmation signal indicating successful programming of the key fob.
- Repeat the previous step to program up to four transmitters. You can program multiple key fobs using this process. Remember to reprogram existing remotes as well, as the system often clears previous programming.
- Turn the ignition switch to the ON position to exit keyless entry transmitter mode. This step finalizes the programming process.
- Operate the transmitter functions to verify correct system operation. Test the lock, unlock, and other buttons on your 1999 Chevy Suburban key fob to ensure they are working correctly.
Why Didn’t the Programming Instructions Work for Your 1999 Chevy Suburban?
If your doors didn’t lock and unlock after step 6, it means the system likely didn’t enter programming mode. Here are a few potential reasons:
- Incorrect Procedure: Double-check each step, especially the timing and sequence of ignition cycling and holding the door unlock switch. It can be sensitive.
- Faulty Door Unlock Switch: If the door unlock switch on your Chevy Suburban is malfunctioning, holding it might not register with the system. Test the switch separately to ensure it’s working correctly for normal door unlocking.
- Ignition Switch Issues: Problems with the ignition switch itself could prevent the system from recognizing the on/off cycles correctly.
- Vehicle System Malfunction: Less commonly, there could be an issue with the vehicle’s body control module (BCM) or the keyless entry receiver itself. This would require professional diagnosis.
- Key Fob Problem (Beyond Battery): While you replaced the battery, there could be other internal issues with the 1999 Chevy Suburban key fob itself that prevent it from transmitting the programming signal.
Troubleshooting Steps for Your 1999 Chevy Suburban Key Fob
- Retry the Programming Procedure Carefully: Go through the steps again, very meticulously. Pay close attention to the timing and ensure you hear the ignition switch click distinctly in each ON and OFF position.
- Check the Door Unlock Switch: Make sure the door unlock switch on your Chevy Suburban door panel is functioning correctly for regular door unlocking.
- Try the Second Key Fob (If Available): If you have a second key fob, try programming it. If it works, the issue might be with the first key fob itself.
- Check Fuses: Consult your 1999 Chevy Suburban owner’s manual for the fuse box location and identify the fuse related to “Remote Door Locks” or “Keyless Entry.” Check if this fuse is blown and replace it if necessary.
- Seek Professional Help: If none of these steps work, it’s best to take your 1999 Chevy Suburban to a qualified mechanic or a dealership. They have specialized tools to diagnose the keyless entry system and identify if there’s a problem with the receiver, BCM, or wiring.
Conclusion
Reprogramming a 1999 Chevy Suburban key fob can sometimes be tricky. By carefully following the correct procedure and considering potential issues beyond just the battery, you can increase your chances of success. If you’re still facing problems, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to diagnose and resolve any underlying issues with your vehicle’s keyless entry system. Getting your 1999 Chevy Suburban key fob working again will restore convenience and security to your daily driving.
