2020 GMC Yukon Key Fob Programming Guide

As a locksmith and ASE-certified electrical technician, I see a lot of modern SUVs come through the shop for key and remote issues. The 2020 GMC Yukon uses a proximity smart key system. While losing a key to your Yukon can be stressful, General Motors has mercifully designed this system so that you can program a new fob yourself, provided you already have at least one working transmitter.

Here is your comprehensive guide to getting a new key fob paired to your 2020 GMC Yukon, saving you time and money.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

If your 2020 GMC Yukon is a US-market vehicle and you currently have at least one recognized key fob, you can program a new, unprogrammed fob using the vehicle's onboard procedure. (Note: Canadian vehicles require two recognized fobs to perform onboard programming. If you have no working keys, the process takes 30 minutes, or you will need a locksmith).

Procedure with One Working Key:

1. Prepare the vehicle: Ensure the vehicle is off and all doors are closed. Have your working fob and your new, unprogrammed fob with you.
2. Remove the manual key: Take the emergency metal key blade out of your working fob.
3. Initiate programming mode: Insert the emergency metal key into the key cylinder on the driver's exterior door handle. Turn the key to the Unlock position five (5) times within 10 seconds.
4. Check the display: The Driver Information Center (DIC) on your dashboard will display a message saying "Ready for Remote #2" (or #3, #4, depending on how many keys are already programmed).
5. Place the new fob: Open the center console armrest. Locate the transmitter pocket (usually a small indentation at the bottom of the center console storage bin). Place the new, unprogrammed fob into this pocket.
6. Program the fob: Press the engine START/STOP button once. The DIC will update to say "Ready for Remote #3" (indicating the new fob has been accepted and it is ready for the next one).
7. Complete the process: Remove the newly programmed fob from the center console pocket. Press the UNLOCK button on the new fob.
8. Exit programming mode: Press and hold the engine START/STOP button for about 12 seconds to exit programming mode. Test both fobs to ensure they start the vehicle and operate the door locks.

Battery replacement

If your Yukon is displaying a "Replace Battery in Remote Key" message, or if the range is getting weak, you just need a fresh CR2032 battery.

1. Press the small button on the side or back of the fob to release the emergency metal key.
2. Pull the metal key out.
3. Insert a flathead screwdriver or the tip of the metal key into the slot left by the key blade, and gently pry the two halves of the fob apart.
4. Remove the old battery and insert the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing down toward the back cover.
5. Snap the two halves of the shell back together and reinsert the metal key blade.

Where to buy a replacement fob

When replacing a 2020 GMC Yukon smart key, you have a few avenues:

• The Dealership: Going to the dealer is the safest but most expensive route. An OEM fob will cost around $150–$200, plus an additional $100–$150 for programming and cutting the emergency key.
• Automotive Locksmith: A local mobile locksmith is usually the best middle ground. They can provide an OEM or high-quality aftermarket fob, cut the blade on-site, and program it for about $150–$250 total.
• Online (Amazon/eBay): You can buy a cheap aftermarket fob online for $30–$80. Pros: It's incredibly cheap. Cons: Quality control is extremely hit-or-miss. Some aftermarket fobs won't hold their programming or will randomly lose range. You will also still need a locksmith or hardware store to laser-cut the emergency blade.

If on-board programming isn't supported

If you have lost all your keys, or if you live in Canada and only have one working key, the quick on-board programming steps above will not work for you. The 2020 Yukon uses an encrypted transponder system communicating with the vehicle's immobilizer.

In an "all keys lost" situation, the vehicle requires a computerized relearn. While there is a 30-minute manual relearn procedure for US vehicles, it can be incredibly finicky and drain your vehicle's battery if not hooked up to a tender. A locksmith or dealer will hook a specialized bi-directional scan tool to your OBD2 port, clear the old keys from the immobilizer module, and write the new keys directly to the vehicle's computer. Expect an "all keys lost" service from a mobile locksmith to run between $250 and $350.

Don't stay locked out. Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.