Experiencing issues with your 1999 Chevy Silverado key fob can be frustrating. If your key fob suddenly stops working, leaving you unable to remotely lock or unlock your doors, don’t immediately assume the worst. Often, the fix is simpler than you might think. Let’s explore some troubleshooting steps and how you might reprogram your key fob yourself.
First, rule out the most common culprit: the battery. Even if you’ve recently replaced it, it’s worth double-checking. Ensure you’re using a fresh battery of the correct type and that it’s properly installed with the correct polarity. A weak battery is a frequent cause of key fob malfunction.
If a battery replacement doesn’t solve the problem, the next step is to check if the fob is actually transmitting a signal. Many auto parts stores have testers that can quickly verify if your key fob is sending out a signal. If the tester indicates a signal, then the issue might be with your Silverado’s receiver, or the key fob may have lost its programming.
Assuming your key fob is transmitting, you can attempt to reprogram it. For a 1999 Silverado (and similar models without a Vehicle Information Center), you can try the following procedure:
- Enter your Silverado, ensuring all doors are closed and unlocked. Insert your key into the ignition, but do not turn it on yet.
- Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the driver’s side door panel. Keep holding it throughout the next steps. You should hear the door locks cycle (clunk twice).
- While still holding the “Unlock” button, cycle the ignition key to the “Accessory” position and then back to “Off”. Repeat this key cycling a total of two times (Accessory-Off, Accessory-Off).
- Release the “Unlock” button. The door locks should cycle again, indicating the system is in programming mode.
- On your key fob, simultaneously press and hold both the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons for about 15 seconds.
- If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat step 5 for each one immediately after. Up to four key fobs can typically be programmed.
- Start your Silverado to exit the programming mode. Turn the ignition off and test all programmed key fobs to see if they now lock and unlock your doors.
If you’ve tried these steps and your 1999 Silverado Key Fob still isn’t working, it might be time to consider professional help. A qualified car locksmith or your local Chevrolet dealer can diagnose more complex issues and ensure your key fob and Silverado are properly communicating. They have specialized tools to reprogram fobs or address potential receiver problems within your vehicle’s security system.
