Cannot enter keyless entry programming mode

JakesInSpace · February 6, 2019

Truck in question: 2001 Silverado 1500 LT Z71 (w/ Stock Keyless Entry System)

Okay, I really didn't want to make a forum post, but I've scoured the hivemind for answers and I have found none.

Recently I ordered new batteries for my 15732803 key fob that was showing signs of a weak battery. i.e. Required holding button longer than before, and requiring me to stand closer.

I removed the old battery about 12 hours before installing a new one. (idk why I did this, but I didn't think it would cause issues.) I tested the fob at Pep-Boys on one of those Energizer fob testers. Seems to work fine!

After installing the battery, I followed the instructions on the inside of the fob case. "Press and hold LOCK & UNLOCK for 7 seconds". I did this, but I received no response from the truck. I tried this several times to no avail. At this point I assume that removing the battery for an extended period caused the rolling codes to become lost or out of sync... I begin attempting to enter programming mode as per my trucks service manual.

This is where I am having problems. I followed the service manual and a multitude of other online resources that gave me the same, or slightly differing instructions. However, the locks NEVER cycle when I release the drivers-side UNLOCK button. I tried different combinations of this, with different speeds; removing the key, opening and closing the door every time. No luck...

The systems worked well for years until I removed and replaced the battery.

I respectfully ask that you don't respond with programming instruction from the service manual. I've read it so many times I could recite it by memory. I am certain that it's either a hardware/software issue, or it's a process issue. Maybe I'm performing the procedure too fast? Too slow? Are there known quirks that are undocumented in the service manual? Did I somehow mess something up by leaving the fob battery out for so long? (This seems unlikely since the fob isn't the issue in question)

Thank you in advance for anyone who responds.

tbarn · February 6, 2019

I know you said not to but here is the official version from service information. May or may not be different from what you are using. No leaving the battery will not cause an issue. Are you sure you didn't break a solder joint inside the fob while changing the battery. Very common issue.

Transmitter Programming Procedure (Method 1 - No Tools Required)

Close all the vehicle doors.
Insert the ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder.
Press and hold the door unlock switch.
While holding the door lock switch in the unlock position, cycle the ignition ON, OFF, ON, OFF.
Release the door unlock switch. The doors will lock and unlock to confirm the program mode.
Press and hold the LOCK button and the UNLOCK button simultaneously on one transmitter. After a delay of approximately 15 seconds, the doors will lock and unlock to confirm the programming of that transmitter.
Repeat the previous step to program up to four transmitters.
Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position in order to exit the keyless entry transmitter mode.
Operate the transmitter functions in order to verify correct system operation.

Booger T · February 7, 2019

Had a similar issue on my wife's 2007. Fob quit working, no remote start, no door locks, nothing. Changed battery still nothing. Don't know about on a 2001 but there is a receiver in truck that gets signal from the fob. Same receiver controls all functions from the fob. I had to take to dealer to find solution. Had to replace the receiver and reprogram fob and everything was back to normal. Just throwing this out as something you might want to check.

JakesInSpace · February 7, 2019

1 hour ago, tbarn said:

I know you said not to but here is the official version from service information. May or may not be different from what you are using. No leaving the battery will not cause an issue. Are you sure you didn't break a solder joint inside the fob while changing the battery. Very common issue.

Thank you. I have a hot air station and will reflow the fob tonight to see if it starts working.

1 minute ago, Booger T said:

Had a similar issue on my wife's 2007. Fob quit working, no remote start, no door locks, nothing. Changed battery still nothing. Don't know about on a 2001 but there is a receiver in truck that gets signal from the fob. Same receiver controls all functions from the fob. I had to take to dealer to find solution. Had to replace the receiver and reprogram fob and everything was back to normal. Just throwing this out as something you might want to check.

Man, that would sure suck if that's the case... But I will keep that option open just in case I cannot fix it myself. Thank you for your response!