Program your own GM Key

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Question: Can I program my my own key to my Chevrolet, Pontiac, Buick, Oldsmobile, Cadillac or any other General Motors car?

Answer: YES, programming a GM key is relatively easy and does not require any expensive special equipment. This procedure works on GM cars that use a concealed chip in the key. It does not work for the old style VATS keys (where you can see the chip), or GM cars beyond 2019. For 2019 and beyond, you will need 2 original keys to program a 3rd key.

These procedures do NOT work on any other vehicle manufacturer, only General Motors.

If you have at least 1 working key, you can program a spare key IF the spare key is already cut, and it turns easily in the ignition.

  • Insert the original key and turn to the ON position. The dash will light up. Do NOT turn further to the start position.
  • Wait 5 seconds or until flashing security light goes off
  • Remove the key and,
  • Within 10 seconds insert the new key and turn to the on position
  • Wait 5 seconds or until flashing security light goes off
  • Remove the key
  • Key is now programmed
  • Attempt to start the car with both the old and the new key

If all keys are lost you must perform the 10×3 procedure. Your new keys must be cut and they must turn easily in the ignition lock. This procedure will take 30 minutes and you MUST pay attention to each 10 minute segment. I suggest you set a 9 minute timer on your phone so you can be sitting in the drivers seat watching the security light when it goes out.

  • Insert the new key and turn it to the ON position. Do NOT turn to the start position.
  • Wait 10 minutes for the security light to turn off. (Set a timer!)
  • Turn the key off. (Within 1 minute of the light turning off)
  • Turn the key back to on (do not start)
  • Wait another 10 minutes until security light turns off again (set a timer)
  • Turn the key off.
  • Turn the key back to on for 3rd time
  • Wait another 10 minutes, until security light turns off
  • Turn key off
  • The key should now be programmed and you can start the vehicle
  • Follow the first set of instructions to program a spare key.

NOTE: You MUST have a very good battery in the car because the car will be ON for 30 minutes. Turn off the headlights, AC blower, radio, or anything that uses the battery. If you have a good quality jump box, or another vehicle and jumper cables, it would be a good idea to use them. The battery must maintain at least 12-13 volts during the entire programming procedure.

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