Are you a 2011 GMC Sierra owner frustrated with the high costs of replacing or adding a key fob? You’re not alone. Many GMC Sierra and Silverado owners with models from 2011 onwards have discovered that the convenient in-vehicle programming procedure available on older models is no longer an option. This often leads to expensive trips to the dealership or auto garage, just to program a simple key fob. Online forums are filled with discussions about this very issue, with owners resigned to the belief that a costly Tech II tool and professional service are the only solutions.
However, there’s good news! You don’t have to spend a fortune or rely solely on dealerships. A surprisingly affordable and easy DIY method exists, allowing you to program your own 2011 Gmc Sierra Key Fobs right at home. The solution? Dorman replacement key fobs, specifically their kits that include an OBD II key fob programmer module. This ingenious system bypasses the need for specialized tools or professional programming, putting the power back in your hands – and saving you significant money.
For around $50-$75, you can purchase a Dorman key fob kit (like the Dorman 99162, which I personally used for my 2011 Silverado and purchased from Rock Auto for $50). This kit comes with everything you need to program new fobs and even reprogram your existing ones. I successfully programmed two new fobs (one from the kit and another purchased separately online) and also reprogrammed my original key fob, giving me a spare set without the hefty dealer price tag.
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The programming process with the Dorman OBD II module is remarkably straightforward, mirroring the simplicity of the older in-vehicle methods. The kit comes with clear, step-by-step instructions, but here’s a quick rundown of how easy it is:
- Ignition ON: Turn your GMC Sierra’s ignition to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
- Doors Closed: Ensure all doors of your vehicle are fully closed.
- Plug in the Programmer: Locate your vehicle’s OBD II port (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side) and plug in the Dorman OBD II module. Once connected, your Sierra’s Driver Information Center (DIC) should display a message indicating that key fob relearning is active, similar to the older manual programming procedures found on 2008-2010 models.
- Wait for the Chime: Give the module a moment to initialize. It will chime when it’s ready for the next step.
- Program the Fob: Take the key fob you want to program and simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons. Hold them down until the module chimes again. This chime confirms that the key fob has been successfully programmed. Release the buttons.
- Program Additional Fobs: If you have more key fobs to program (including your original fobs if you want to reprogram them all), repeat step 5 for each additional fob.
- Relearning Deactivated: The module will automatically deactivate relearning mode when it starts chiming constantly. This indicates that the programming session is complete.
- Limited Uses: Keep in mind that the Dorman programmer module has a security feature that limits its use to approximately 3 programming sessions.
By using the Dorman kit, I avoided what would have likely been hundreds of dollars in dealer costs. I was prepared to pay a significant amount for a new key fob and programming at a dealership based on online information suggesting it was the only option. Instead, for under $75, I programmed the fob included with the Dorman kit, an additional fob I purchased on Amazon for around $20, and my original fob. As long as any separately purchased fobs are compatible with your GMC Sierra, the Dorman module should program them without issue.
If you own a 2011 or newer GMC Sierra and need to replace or add a key fob, seriously consider the Dorman DIY solution. It’s a game-changer, offering a cost-effective, convenient, and easy way to handle your key fob programming needs without the hassle and expense of going to a dealer. Take control of your car maintenance and enjoy the savings!
