GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important: Do not operate or program the key fobs in the vicinity of other vehicles that are in the keyless entry program mode. This will prevent the programming of the key fobs to the incorrect vehicle.

There are 2 methods for programming key fobs. Up to 4 key fobs may be programmed to the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR). Each programmed key fob is given a position of #1-#4 in the RCDLR memory.

Method 1 - Key Fob Quick Learn

This procedure will add key fobs. Fobs will be numbered in sequence based on when they are programmed; if 2 fobs are currently programmed to the RCDLR, a fob programmed using this method will be numbered as Fob 3. This procedure requires that you have 2 known good key fobs, a replacement key fob, and the vehicles mechanical key.

Simultaneously, Method 1 is also used for key fobs to initialize the programming to a new replacement RCDLR, at this point, the new RCDLR is ready to learn to initialize the first key fob, and for the new RCLDR, other learning processes are the same with Method 1 except that it is unnecessary to place a known key fob inside the vehicle.

Important: When the number of programmed key fobs reaches up to 4, this procedure may not be used. If 4 key fobs are programmed to this RCDLR and this method is attempted, the driver information center (DIC) will display MAX FOBS LEARNED and the programming procedure will exit. Method 2 must be used in this instance.

  1. The vehicle must be OFF.
  2. Place 2 known key fobs within the interior of the vehicle.
  3. Insert the vehicle key in the driver door lock cylinder located in the driver door handle and cycle the key 5 times within 5 seconds.
  4. The DIC will display: READY FOR FOB X (X = fob 2, 3, or 4).
  5. Place the replacement key fob in the console fob pocket with the buttons facing forward.
  6. A chime will sound and the DIC will display: READY FOR FOB X or MAX FOBS LEARNED.
  7. If programming additional key fobs, repeat steps 5-6, or press the OFF/ACC portion of the ignition switch to exit programming mode.
  8. Operate the active portion of each key fob in order to verify correct system operation.

Method 2 - Service Programming System Fob Programming

This procedure is a 10-minute relearn procedure using the Techline Terminal with SPS software. A scan tool, Techline Terminal, and a replacement key fob are required to perform this procedure.

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle.
  2. Ensure that all electrical consumers are turned off.
  3. With a scan tool, select Request Info. under Service Programming System and follow the scan tool on-screen instructions.
  4. Disconnect the scan tool from the vehicle and connect the scan tool to a Techline Terminal with the current Service Programming System (SPS) software.
  5. On the Techline Terminal, select Service Programming System and follow the Techline Terminal on-screen instructions. Ensure the correct key fob programming procedure is selected based on component being replaced or programmed.
  6. Disconnect the scan tool from the Techline Terminal and re-connect the scan tool to the vehicle.
  7. With a scan tool, select Program ECU under Service Programming System.
  8. At this point the scan tool must remain connected for the duration of the 10 minute relearn procedure.
  9. When the 10-minute relearn procedure has completed, use the scan tool to access the following:
  10. • Vehicle Controls
    • Computer/Integrating Systems
    • Module Replacement/Installation
    • RCDLR
    • Programmed Key Fob
  11. Select Fob X (X = 1, 2, 3, or 4) on the scan tool. This will be the slot you wish to program to.
  12. Place the replacement key fob in the console fob pocket with the buttons facing forward. The chime indicates that the programming is complete. The previously known fob is now erased.
  13. If programming additional key fobs, repeat steps 12-13, or press the OFF/ACC portion of the ignition switch to exit programming mode.
  14. Remove the scan tool.
  15. Operate the active portion of each key fob in order to verify correct system operation.