Losing or needing a replacement key fob for your Chevy Silverado can be a real hassle, especially when you find out the dealership is often the only option for programming a new one. Many Silverado owners, particularly those with models from 2011 onwards, discover that the convenient in-vehicle programming procedure mentioned in older manuals is no longer available. This often leads to costly trips to the dealer and hefty bills just to get a new key fob working. Are you looking for a more affordable and convenient solution for your Key Fob For Chevy Silverado? Fortunately, there’s a simple DIY method that can save you significant money and time.
Bypassing Dealership Programming for Your Chevy Silverado Key Fob
For years, Silverado owners relied on a straightforward in-dash procedure to program new key fobs. However, for newer models, particularly post-2011 NNBS (New New Body Style) trucks, this user-friendly option was removed. This change left many believing that a trip to the dealership, equipped with specialized tools like a Tech II scanner, was the only route to program a replacement key fob for Chevy Silverado. This not only adds expense but also inconvenience.
But what if you could program a key fob for Chevy Silverado yourself, without any specialized equipment or dealer visits? The good news is, you absolutely can!
The Dorman Solution: A DIY Key Fob Programmer for Chevy Silverado
After extensive searching for a workaround, a cost-effective and user-friendly solution has emerged: the Dorman replacement key fob kit. This kit is a game-changer for Chevy Silverado owners needing a new key fob for Chevy Silverado or wanting to program additional ones. Dorman, a trusted brand in automotive aftermarket parts, offers replacement key fobs that come with a unique OBD II programmer module. This clever inclusion eliminates the need for dealership programming or expensive Tech II tools. And the best part? These kits are surprisingly affordable, typically ranging from $50 to $75.
One popular option, the Dorman 99162, is specifically designed for vehicles like the 2011 Chevy Silverado and can be easily purchased from automotive parts retailers like Rock Auto. This kit provides everything you need to program a new key fob for Chevy Silverado right in your driveway.
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Simple Steps to Program Your Chevy Silverado Key Fob with the Dorman Kit
The Dorman key fob programmer is designed for ease of use. The kit includes clear, step-by-step instructions, making the programming process straightforward even for those with limited automotive experience. Here’s a simplified guide to programming your key fob for Chevy Silverado using the Dorman module:
- Ignition ON: Turn your Chevy Silverado’s ignition to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
- Close Doors: Ensure all doors of your Silverado are completely closed.
- Plug in Programmer: Locate your vehicle’s OBD II port (usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side). Plug the Dorman OBD II module into this port. Once connected, the Driver Information Center (DIC) on your Silverado should display a message indicating that “relearn active” or a similar message, much like the older in-vehicle programming procedures.
- Wait for Chime: Allow a short period for the module to initialize. You will hear a chime from the module when it’s ready to proceed.
- Program Key Fob: Take the key fob you want to program (new or existing). Press and hold both the “LOCK” and “UNLOCK” buttons simultaneously. Wait for the module to chime again. This chime confirms that the key fob for Chevy Silverado has been successfully programmed. Release the buttons.
- Program Additional Fobs (Optional): If you have additional key fobs to program, including your original fobs, repeat step 5 for each one.
- Relearn Mode Deactivation: The module will automatically deactivate the relearn mode once it has programmed a certain number of fobs or after a set time. You will know the relearn mode is deactivated when the module starts chiming constantly.
- Repeat Programming (If Needed): The Dorman module can typically be used to program fobs up to 3 times before it becomes inactive as a security measure.
This simple process empowers you to program a key fob for Chevy Silverado without any specialized tools or the need to visit a dealership.
Save Time and Money with DIY Key Fob Programming
Choosing the Dorman DIY key fob programmer offers significant advantages. The most obvious benefit is the substantial cost savings. Dealership key fob programming can easily cost hundreds of dollars, encompassing both the fob itself and the labor charges for programming. With the Dorman kit, you can program a new key fob for Chevy Silverado for a fraction of that cost. In the original user’s experience, they programmed a new fob (included in the Dorman kit), an additional fob bought separately, and their existing fob for under $75 total!
Beyond cost, the Dorman solution provides unparalleled convenience. You can program your key fob for Chevy Silverado in your own time, at your own location, eliminating the need to schedule appointments and wait at a dealership or garage. This DIY approach puts you in control and saves you valuable time.
If you own a newer Chevy Silverado and need a key fob for Chevy Silverado replacement or additional fobs, the Dorman OBD II programmer kit is an excellent, affordable, and easy-to-use solution. It allows you to bypass the expensive dealership programming and regain control of your vehicle’s keyless entry system quickly and efficiently.
