Key fobs provide convenient access and security for your GMC Sierra. However, there are times when you might need to program a new or existing key fob. Whether you’ve purchased a replacement, or your current fob has lost its programming, understanding how to program your GMC Sierra key fob can save you time and money compared to dealership service fees. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can quickly regain full control of your vehicle’s keyless entry system.
To begin the programming sequence for your GMC Sierra key fob, ensure you have all the key fobs you intend to use with your vehicle. This procedure will erase all previously programmed remotes, so you must program all existing and new remotes at this time.
Step-by-Step Programming Instructions:
- Prepare the Vehicle: Begin by closing all doors of your GMC Sierra. This is crucial for the system to properly recognize the programming signals.
- Ignition and Unlock Button: Insert your key into the ignition. Then, press and hold the power UNLOCK button located on the driver’s side door panel. Maintain pressure on the UNLOCK button throughout the next steps until instructed to release it.
- Ignition Cycling: While holding the UNLOCK button, quickly turn the ignition to the ON position (just before starting the engine) and then back to the OFF position. Repeat this ON-OFF cycle one more time, for a total of two cycles. The sequence should be ON, OFF, ON, OFF, performed rapidly.
- Release Unlock Button and Programming Mode Confirmation: Release the power UNLOCK button on the driver’s side door panel. If you have successfully entered programming mode, your GMC Sierra will signal this by automatically locking and unlocking its doors. This lock and unlock cycle indicates that the vehicle is ready to learn the new key fob programming.
- Program the First Key Fob: Immediately after the doors cycle, take the first key fob you wish to program. Press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote simultaneously. Continue holding both buttons until the door locks cycle once again. This may take up to 30 seconds. The door locks cycling confirms that the key fob has been successfully programmed.
- Program Additional Key Fobs: If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat Step 5 for each of them. Remember to perform this step for all remotes you want to use, as previous programming has been erased.
- Exit Programming Mode: Once you have programmed all desired key fobs, turn the ignition key to the ON position and then immediately turn it back to the OFF position. Remove the key from the ignition. This action exits the programming mode.
- Test Key Fobs: Test each programmed key fob to ensure they are working correctly. Press the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons to verify that they control the door locks. Also, test any other functions your key fob may have, such as remote start or panic button, to confirm full functionality.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Door Locks Not Cycling in Step 4: If the door locks do not cycle after releasing the UNLOCK button in Step 4, and instead lock and unlock before releasing it, the vehicle has not entered programming mode. You will need to start over from Step 1. Ensure you are turning the ignition quickly enough and are holding the unlock button correctly.
- Continuous Lock/Unlock Before Releasing Unlock Button: If the vehicle continuously locks and unlocks before you release the UNLOCK button, this indicates a potential issue with the vehicle’s keyless entry system. In this case, programming the remotes yourself may not be possible, and it is recommended to seek assistance from a certified automotive professional or your GMC dealership.
- No Door Lock Response at All: If you cannot get the door locks to cycle at all, even in Step 4, you might be turning the ignition key too quickly or too slowly. Practice the ON-OFF sequence to get a feel for the correct timing and repeat the process from Step 1.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully program your GMC Sierra key fob. This DIY approach can save you considerable expense compared to professional programming services. If you found these instructions helpful, consider sharing this guide with other GMC Sierra owners!
