It can be frustrating when your key fob becomes unreliable, and sometimes the issue isn’t the fob battery itself, but rather the vehicle’s antenna. For GMC Terrain owners, locating the Key Fob Antenna can be a bit of a puzzle. Unlike some vehicles where the antenna is more readily accessible, the Terrain often hides it in an unexpected location – the rear bumper area. If you’re experiencing issues with your keyless entry, understanding where to find and how to potentially replace your key fob antenna is the first step in resolving the problem.
The Mystery of the Rear Bumper Antenna Location
Many GMC Terrain owners, especially those with models around 2018, have discovered that the key fob antenna isn’t in a conventional spot. Instead of being near the windshield or in the cabin, it’s often tucked away near the rear hatch or even behind the rear bumper. This placement can seem odd, but it’s a design choice made by the manufacturer.
The original poster on the Terrain forum was also perplexed by this location, noting that it seemed like a “dumb spot” for an antenna. However, this placement is intentional. Automakers sometimes locate antennas in less obvious areas for various reasons, including aesthetics and signal optimization in specific vehicle designs. In the case of the GMC Terrain, the rear bumper area seems to be the chosen location for the keyless entry antenna.
Step-by-Step Guide to Locating Your Key Fob Antenna
If you suspect your key fob antenna is the source of your keyless entry problems, here’s how to find it:
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Inspect Under the Rear Bumper: Get down and look underneath the rear bumper of your GMC Terrain. You’ll be searching for a small, often inconspicuous component.
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Look for the “Pop Rivet”: The key identifier is a small “pop rivet.” This rivet is typically attached to a plastic cross member located between the painted outer rear bumper fascia (the visible, colored part) and the actual black metal bumper underneath.
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Trace the Wires: Once you spot the pop rivet, look closely for a wire harness connected to it. The antenna itself might be hidden, but the wires leading to it will be visible. These wires may be tucked between the metal bumper and the painted plastic fascia, so you might need to look carefully.
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Reference Image for Visual Aid: The image below, originally shared in a GMC Acadia context, provides a clear visual of what you’re looking for. While it’s on an Acadia, the antenna design and location principle are very similar for GMC Terrains of similar years. Focus on identifying the pop rivet and the wires connected to it.
Replacing Your Key Fob Antenna: A DIY Approach
If you’ve located your key fob antenna and suspect it needs replacement, here’s a simplified DIY approach:
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Acquire a Replacement Antenna: You can find replacement keyless entry antennas online or at automotive parts stores. The original poster mentioned ACDelco part number 13580788 for the antenna and 13595510 for the receiver. Confirm these part numbers are correct for your specific 2018 GMC Terrain SLT with the 1.6 diesel engine or verify the correct parts for your model year and trim using your vehicle’s VIN at a reputable parts website.
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Remove the Old Antenna: The original antenna is likely secured by the pop rivet. To remove it, you’ll need to carefully drill out the pop rivet. Use a drill bit size appropriate for the rivet to avoid damaging the surrounding plastic.
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Install the New Antenna: Once the old antenna is removed, you can attach the new one. Since you drilled out the pop rivet, you’ll need an alternative fastener. A common metal or nylon bolt and screw set will work well. Ensure the bolt and screw are the appropriate size to securely fasten the new antenna to the plastic cross member.
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Connect the Wire Harness: Carefully connect the wire harness to the new antenna. Ensure a secure and proper connection.
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Test Your Key Fob: After installation, test your key fob to see if the keyless entry system is now functioning correctly.
Conclusion: Key Fob Antenna Location and Replacement
Finding the key fob antenna on a GMC Terrain might require a bit of searching due to its unusual rear bumper location. However, by following these steps and using the visual guide, you can locate it, diagnose potential issues, and even undertake a DIY replacement. Remember to always double-check part compatibility for your specific vehicle model and exercise caution when working on your vehicle. With a little patience, you can restore reliable keyless entry functionality to your GMC Terrain.
