Experiencing trouble programming your key fob for your 1999 Chevy Silverado? You’re not alone. Many Silverado owners encounter this frustration when trying to add or reprogram their key fobs. The good news is, often this is a problem you can resolve yourself without a trip to the dealership. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to programming your 1999 Silverado key fob and troubleshooting tips if you run into issues.
Step-by-Step Programming Guide for Your 1999 Chevy Silverado Key Fob
Before you begin, ensure you have a compatible key fob for your 1999 Chevy Silverado. Once you have the correct fob, follow these instructions carefully:
-
Prepare Your Vehicle: Start by closing all doors of your Chevy Silverado. This is crucial for the programming sequence to initiate correctly.
-
Ignition and Unlock Sequence:
- Insert your ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder.
- Press and HOLD the door unlock switch on your driver’s side door panel. Keep holding it throughout the next steps.
- While holding the unlock switch, cycle the ignition from OFF to ON and back to OFF twice. This means: ON, OFF, ON, OFF. “ON” means turning the key to the position just before starting the engine, and “OFF” is the position where the engine is off and key can be removed (but you don’t need to remove it).
-
Enter Programming Mode: Release the door unlock switch. If the sequence is performed correctly, the doors should lock and unlock automatically. This lock and unlock cycle confirms that your 1999 Chevy Silverado has successfully entered the key fob programming mode.
-
Program the Key Fob:
- Take your key fob transmitter.
- Simultaneously press and hold down both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the key fob.
- Continue holding both buttons for approximately 15 seconds. After this short delay, the doors should lock and unlock again. This second lock/unlock cycle indicates that the key fob transmitter has been successfully programmed to your Silverado.
-
Program Additional Key Fobs (Optional): If you have additional key fobs to program (up to a maximum of four), repeat step 4 immediately for each additional fob.
-
Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position (the position just before starting the engine) to exit the keyless entry transmitter programming mode.
-
Test the Key Fob: Operate all the buttons on your newly programmed key fob – LOCK, UNLOCK, and any other functions your fob may have – to verify that they are working correctly and controlling the corresponding functions on your 1999 Chevy Silverado.
Troubleshooting: Why Your 1999 Silverado Key Fob Might Not Program
If you’ve followed the steps above and your 1999 Chevy Silverado key fob still won’t program, here are some common reasons and troubleshooting tips:
-
Incorrect Procedure: Key fob programming sequences can be very specific. Double-check each step and ensure you are performing them accurately and in the correct order. Small deviations can prevent the process from working. Re-read the instructions and try again, paying close attention to timing and button presses.
-
Faulty Key Fob: The key fob itself could be defective or have a low battery. Try replacing the battery in your key fob with a fresh one. If you have a spare key fob, attempt to program that one to rule out a problem with the original fob. If neither works, the issue might not be the fob itself.
-
Receiver Issues: The Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR) in your Silverado might be malfunctioning. This receiver is responsible for receiving the signal from your key fob. If it’s faulty, it won’t be able to enter programming mode or recognize the key fob signal. Diagnosing a faulty RCDLR can be complex and might require professional tools.
-
Aftermarket Systems: If your Silverado has an aftermarket alarm or remote start system installed, it could interfere with the factory keyless entry system and prevent key fob programming. Try disarming or temporarily disabling any aftermarket systems and then attempt the programming procedure again.
-
OBD2 DLC Jumper (For Classic Style Models): If you have a classic style Silverado, specifically the GMT400 platform (which might be considered for very early 1999 models or older “square body” styles), you might need to use a jumper wire in the OBD2 Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC). For these models, pins 4 and 8 in the OBD2 DLC connector may require a jumper to enter programming mode. This is less likely for a standard 1999 Silverado 1500 but worth considering if the standard procedure fails and your truck is an older style. Note: Exercise caution when using jumpers in the OBD2 port and ensure you are connecting the correct pins. Consult a wiring diagram if you are unsure.
-
Vehicle Theft or Security Lockout: In rare cases, if the vehicle’s computer system detects a potential theft situation or a mismatch between the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and the security system, it might prevent key fob programming as a security measure.
When Dealership Programming is Necessary
If you’ve exhausted the troubleshooting steps above and your 1999 Chevy Silverado key fob still refuses to program, it may be time to seek professional help. Dealership programming might be required in situations such as:
- Suspected RCDLR Failure: If you suspect a faulty Remote Control Door Lock Receiver, a dealership or a qualified automotive technician with diagnostic tools can properly diagnose and replace this component.
- Security System Issues: If the vehicle’s security system is preventing programming due to a perceived theft situation or a system malfunction, dealership-level diagnostic and reprogramming tools might be necessary to reset the system and allow key fob programming.
- PCM or Chip Mismatch: While less common for simple key fob programming, in complex scenarios involving PCM issues or chip mismatches, dealership programming may be the only solution to ensure compatibility and proper function of the keyless entry system.
While dealerships typically charge for key fob programming services, they have specialized equipment and access to the vehicle’s computer systems that independent mechanics may not possess. Contact your local Chevrolet dealership to inquire about their key fob programming services and schedule an appointment if needed.
By following this guide, you should be able to successfully program your 1999 Chevy Silverado key fob or at least narrow down the potential issues preventing programming. Remember to be patient, double-check each step, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.
