GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

When a keyless entry transmitter button is pressed, an RF signal is sent to the vehicle. The remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR) receives this RF signal by way of the keyless entry/tire pressure antenna. When the RF signal is received, the RCDLR determines the specific command sent by the transmitter and relays this message to the body control module (BCM) via serial data. The BCM then performs the requested command.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Remote Function Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Remote Function Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Special Tools Required

J 43241 Keyless Entry Tester

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Verify that the transmitter being used is a correct transmitter for the vehicle.
  2. If not the correct transmitter, replace the transmitter.
  3. Place the transmitter on the test pad of the J 43241 and press each button of the transmitter one at a time. The tester should sound a tone and illuminate a green light when each button is pressed.
  4. If any of the buttons do not sound the tone and illuminate the green light, replace the transmitter battery. Retest with the J 43241. If the transmitter continues to malfunction, replace the affected transmitter.
  5. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Fob Programmed parameter for the transmitter being used is Yes.
  6. If not the specified value, program the applicable transmitter. Refer to Transmitter Programming .
  7. Press each transmitter button. Verify the scan tool Fob Function parameter for the transmitter being used responds to each button press.
  8. If the parameter does not respond, test the keyless entry antenna for an open/high resistance. If all circuits test normal, replace the RCDLR.
  9. If all circuits test normal, replace the RCDLR.

Repair Instructions

Important: This vehicle may be equipped with the Advance 2 Way Remote Start System. Vehicle equipped with the Advance 2 Way Remote Start System can be identified by an LCD screen on the keyless entry transmitter or a yellow label on the RCDLR. When servicing the Advance 2 Way Remote Start System, ensure that the correct parts are installed during replacement. Service parts for the Advance 2 Way Remote Start System can be found in the Accessory section of the parts manual.

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Transmitter Battery Replacement
    •  Control Module References for RCDLR replacement, setup, and programming