Losing a key fob or needing an extra for your 2011 GMC Sierra can be a frustrating experience, especially when faced with the often hefty costs associated with dealership programming. Many GMC Sierra owners discover that the convenient in-vehicle DIC (Driver Information Center) programming procedure available in older models is no longer an option for 2011 and newer trucks. This often leads to the assumption that a trip to the dealership, and the expense of their proprietary Tech II tools, is the only route to program a new key fob.
However, there’s good news for budget-conscious GMC Sierra owners and DIY enthusiasts! You don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune at the dealership to get your key fobs programmed. A cost-effective and user-friendly solution exists in the form of aftermarket key fob programming kits.
One standout option is the Dorman key fob replacement kit, which includes an OBD II programmer module. This innovative solution allows you to program key fobs yourself, right in your driveway, eliminating the need for expensive dealer services or specialized equipment. For owners of a 2011 GMC Sierra, this Dorman kit provides a significant saving opportunity and empowers you to handle your key fob programming needs directly.
The Dorman 99162 kit, for example, has been successfully used on 2011 Silverado (and similar GMC Sierra) models and typically costs between $50 and $75. This kit not only provides a new key fob but also the OBD II module required for programming, making it an all-in-one solution. You can even program additional compatible key fobs, maximizing convenience and savings.
Programming your 2011 GMC Sierra key fob with the Dorman module is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- 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.
- Connect Programmer: Plug the Dorman OBD II module into your vehicle’s OBD II port, typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Once connected, the DIC should display a message indicating that a relearning process is active, similar to the older manual DIC procedures.
- Wait for Chime: Allow a few moments for the module to initialize. You will hear a chime from the module when it’s ready to program the first key fob.
- Program Key Fob: Take the key fob you wish to program (new or existing). Press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons simultaneously. When you hear another chime from the Dorman module, the key fob is successfully programmed. Release the buttons.
- Program Additional Fobs: If you have more key fobs to program, including any existing ones you want to ensure are still recognized, repeat step 5 for each additional fob.
- Relearning Deactivated: The Dorman module will automatically deactivate the relearning mode when it starts chiming continuously. This indicates that the programming session is complete.
- Module Usage Limit: Be aware that the Dorman programmer module has a security feature that limits its use to approximately 3 programming cycles.
By using the Dorman OBD II key fob programmer, owners of 2011 GMC Sierra trucks can bypass the dealership and program their own key fobs quickly and affordably. This DIY method not only saves you money but also provides a convenient solution for replacement or additional key fobs without the need for specialized tools or professional assistance. Consider this Dorman solution as a smart alternative to expensive dealership programming and regain control over your vehicle’s key fob needs.
