Are you a 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 owner struggling with a lost, broken, or additional key fob? Many owners of newer model GMC Sierra trucks discover that the handy in-vehicle programming procedure, available on older models, is no longer an option. This often leads to the daunting and expensive realization that a trip to the dealership, and their pricey Tech II programming tools, seems to be the only solution. Online forums are filled with discussions about the high costs and frustrations associated with getting new key fobs programmed for 2011 and later GMC Sierra 1500s.
However, there’s good news! You don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune at the dealership. A surprisingly simple and cost-effective DIY solution exists thanks to Dorman Products. Dorman offers replacement key fobs specifically designed for vehicles like the 2011 GMC Sierra 1500, and these kits include an OBD II key fob programmer module. This ingenious system bypasses the need for dealership tools and allows you to program your key fobs right in your driveway for a fraction of the cost.
One popular and effective option is the Dorman 99162 key fob kit. This kit, readily available from online retailers like Rock Auto and Amazon, typically costs between $50 and $75. For this price, you receive a new key fob and the OBD II programmer module – everything you need to get started. The process is remarkably straightforward, making it accessible even for those with limited automotive experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to program your 2011 Gmc Sierra 1500 Key Fob using the Dorman OBD II programmer:
- Ignition ON: Turn your GMC Sierra 1500 ignition to the “ON” position. This is the position right before you start the engine, where the dashboard lights illuminate.
- Close Doors: Ensure all doors of your GMC Sierra 1500 are fully closed.
- Plug in OBD II Module: Locate the OBD II port in your vehicle (typically under the dashboard on the driver’s side). Plug the Dorman OBD II programmer module into this port. Once connected, the Driver Information Center (DIC) in your Sierra should display a message indicating that key fob relearning is active, similar to the older manual procedures.
- Wait for Chime: Give the module a moment to initialize. It will chime to signal it’s ready for programming.
- Program Key Fob: Take the key fob you wish to program (this could be the new Dorman fob, an additional compatible fob, or even your existing fob to reprogram). Press and hold both the “LOCK” and “UNLOCK” buttons simultaneously. When the module chimes again, this indicates the key fob has been successfully programmed. Release the buttons.
- Program Additional Fobs: If you have more key fobs to program, repeat step 5 for each additional fob. This is a great opportunity to program spare fobs or replace any that might be malfunctioning.
- Relearning Deactivation: The module will automatically deactivate relearning mode when it starts chiming constantly. This signals that the programming session is complete.
- Module Limitations: Keep in mind that the Dorman OBD II programmer module has a security feature that limits its use to approximately 3 programming sessions. This is usually more than sufficient for most users needing to program a couple of key fobs.
By utilizing the Dorman key fob programming kit, owners of 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks and similar models can bypass expensive dealership programming. This DIY approach not only saves a significant amount of money but also offers a convenient solution that can be completed at home. For anyone facing key fob issues with their 2011 GMC Sierra 1500, exploring the Dorman OBD II programmer solution is definitely worthwhile. You can program new fobs and regain full control over your vehicle access without breaking the bank.
