2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Key Fob Programming Guide

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD supports on-board programming for the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) portion of your key fob. This procedure will allow your new fob to lock, unlock, and remote start your truck. However, this procedure WILL NOT program the immobilizer transponder. The immobilizer transponder is a separate chip within your key or fob that communicates with your truck's computer, preventing theft. If your new fob is an integrated key/fob unit and your original key had a chip, you will need a locksmith or dealer to program the immobilizer. If you only need to program a remote for an existing chipped key, then this procedure is for you.

To program the RKE portion of your key fob:

1. Get inside your truck and close all doors.
2. Insert your working, programmed key into the ignition.
3. Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (do not start the engine), then immediately turn it to the "OFF" position.
4. Remove the key.
5. Within 10 seconds of removing the key, insert the new, unprogrammed key into the ignition.
6. Turn the new key to the "ON" position (do not start the engine), then immediately turn it to the "OFF" position.
7. Remove the new key.
8. The Driver Information Center (DIC) should display "READY FOR REMOTE #1."
9. Hold down the "LOCK" and "UNLOCK" buttons on the new key fob simultaneously for about 10-15 seconds. You may hear a chime or the doors may lock/unlock to confirm programming.
10. Repeat step 9 for any additional remotes you wish to program. The DIC will display "READY FOR REMOTE #2," "READY FOR REMOTE #3," etc.
11. Once all remotes are programmed, turn the ignition to the "ON" position for approximately 10 seconds to exit programming mode. Then, turn it off and remove the key.
12. Test all programmed key fobs to ensure they lock, unlock, and remote start (if applicable) the vehicle.

Battery replacement

Your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD key fob uses a CR2032 coin cell battery. Replacing it is a straightforward process:

1. Locate the small indentation or slot on the side or bottom of your key fob. This is where the two halves of the fob meet.
2. Using a small flathead screwdriver, thin coin, or a guitar pick, gently pry the two halves of the fob apart. Be careful not to damage the internal electronics.
3. Once open, you will see the circuit board and the battery. Note the orientation of the battery (which side is positive facing up).
4. Carefully remove the old CR2032 battery.
5. Insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing the same direction as the old battery. This is usually indicated by a + sign on the battery itself.
6. Align the two halves of the key fob and press them firmly back together until you hear a click, ensuring they are securely sealed.
7. Test your key fob functions to confirm the new battery is working.

Where to buy a replacement fob

When considering where to purchase a replacement key fob for your Silverado, you have a few options, each with its own pros and cons:

• Chevrolet Dealership:

  • Pros: Guaranteed genuine OEM part, often includes programming service. They can program both the RKE and immobilizer transponder.
  • Cons: Most expensive option. Expect to pay anywhere from $200-$400+ for the fob and programming.

• Automotive Locksmith:

  • Pros: Generally more affordable than the dealership. Locksmiths have the necessary tools to cut and program both the RKE and immobilizer transponder. They can often come to your location.
  • Cons: Prices can vary. Ensure the locksmith is reputable and experienced with GM vehicles.
  • Ballpark Price: Expect to pay $150-$300+ for the fob, cutting, and programming.

• Online Retailers (Amazon, eBay, specialized auto parts sites):

  • Pros: The most budget-friendly option for the fob itself, often starting around $30-$80.
  • Cons: You'll only be purchasing the physical fob. You will still need to pay extra for key cutting (if a key blade is involved) and professional programming (for the immobilizer and potentially the RKE if you don't want to DIY). Many online fobs are aftermarket and while often compatible, quality can vary. Always verify the FCC ID and OEM part numbers for compatibility.
  • Ballpark Price: Fob cost + $50-$150+ for cutting and immobilizer programming by a locksmith.

If on-board programming isn't supported

As mentioned, while the RKE portion of your key fob can be programmed DIY, the immobilizer transponder requires specialized equipment. This is typically a tool known as a "scan tool" that can communicate with your vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM) and Engine Control Module (ECM) to learn the new transponder code. These tools are expensive and require specific software, making them proprietary to dealerships and professional locksmiths.

Cost Expectations for Professional Programming:

If you need the immobilizer transponder programmed in addition to the RKE, you're looking at an additional cost on top of the fob itself. This service typically ranges from $50 to $150 at a locksmith or dealership, depending on the complexity and your location. If a locksmith comes to you, there may be a service call fee.

Immobilizer Transponder:

Your 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD uses a sophisticated immobilizer system to prevent theft. Each key or integrated key fob contains a unique transponder chip. When you insert a key into the ignition, the truck's security system reads this chip. If the chip's code does not match what the truck is expecting, the engine will not start, or it will start and immediately die. This system provides a crucial layer of security, but it also means that simply cutting a new key blade or programming the RKE portion of a fob is insufficient to make the truck operable if that specific transponder hasn't been "learned" by the vehicle.

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