Programming Key Fob Transmitters

When performing the IMMO Immobilizer Learn procedure to program or add key fob transmitters (Fig. 14) on some 2021-2023 Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, Escalade; 2022-2023 Silverado, Sierra; and 2024 Silverado 2500HD/3500HD and Sierra 2500HD/3500HD models, there may be some difficulty completing programming or an error message such as “0004 Device Control Not Available” or “Communication Error” may be displayed.

 

Fig. 14

 

If these conditions are present, there are several possible causes that should be addressed.

Part Number

First, if programming new key fobs, verify the correct part number fob is being used. Also make sure there is not a VIN already learned to the new key fob by using the EL-52545 TPMS and RF Tool. (Fig. 15) Refer to Bulletin #21-NA-061 for more details.

 

Fig. 15

 

Key Fob Pocket Location

Before programming, check the Owner’s Manual to confirm the location of the fob pocket in the vehicle. (Fig. 16) The programming location can vary from vehicle to vehicle.

 

Fig. 16

 

If there is still a fob transmitter programmed to the vehicle, perform the following procedure to determine that the IMMO coil is working properly and the correct programming fob pocket location:

1. Remove the battery from the fob that is still programmed to the vehicle.
2. Move all fobs away from the vehicle.
3. Try to start the vehicle. The result should be a Driver Information Center (DIC) message stating no fob detected.
4. Place the learned fob, with the battery removed, in the programming fob pocket and try to restart or power up the vehicle. If the vehicle powers up, the IMMO coil is working properly and the correct programming fob pocket is being used.

Check DTCs

On vehicles that have had any reprogramming, a module has been replaced, or any modules with a current DTC U1962 (Unable to Authenticate Serial Data Message), it should be verified that the Serial Data Authentication Configuration (SDAC) has completed.

Any “Environment Identifier” DTCs that are set also should be addressed.

IMMO Immobilizer Learn

During the IMMO Immobilizer Learn, after the ignition automatically powers on, make sure to set the parking brake. On vehicles with the Electronic Transmission Range Select (ETRS) system, press the Park button on the shifter.

In addition, during the IMMO Immobilizer Learn, do not place the key fob transmitter in the programming fob pocket until instructed to do so. All other transmitters must be at least 9.8 feet (3 m) away from the vehicle. Key fob transmitters should not be placed on the roof, hood, or other locations on or near the vehicle.

Be sure to stay with the Techline Connect computer and the vehicle at all times during the IMMO Immobilizer Learn procedure in order to follow all programming instructions. If these instructions are missed, the learn could fail.

If a “Communication Error” message is displayed, check that an aftermarket device is not connected in line with the DLC. Refer to Bulletin #13-08-116-001H for more information about aftermarket devices.

In some cases, if the computer/laptop being used for the IMMO Immobilizer Learn is inside the vehicle, it could cause interference. It’s best to place the computer/laptop outside the vehicle when performing the IMMO Immobilizer Learn.

For more information, refer to #PIT6015.

– Thanks to Jim Will