As someone who wants to get the most out of their 2021 GM vehicle, you’ll surely want to know all about any accessories and additional features that can improve the functionality of your car. One of the most common gadgets that come with a new car is the key fob. As technology continues to advance, it seems that these keyless remotes come with more and more buttons every year. That might sound overwhelming, but it’s a sign that your key fob can perform more functions than ever before to make interacting with your 2021 vehicle fast, easy, and uncomplicated. But what exactly can a General Motors key fob do for you? What kind of keyless remotes are available for your model of car, and how do you program it to work with your vehicle? Is it easy to replace a key fob if it is lost or damaged? We’ll provide all this information and more in the text below.
What Is a Key Fob?
A key fob is a battery-powered remote that allows you to have wireless control over your vehicle. One primarily uses this remote to lock and unlock a car from a distance, although there are many more things these remotes can do in the modern age. Popular features include the ability to open and close the car trunk with the press of a button and make the roof of a convertible fold and unfold on command. Programming the fob to work with your car is a quick and simple process. If the battery dies, it is easy to find a replacement at a local auto parts store. These remotes are certainly a smart solution for saving drivers time and improving their vehicles’ accessibility.
How Many Different Kinds of GM Key Fobs are There?
Each model of GM vehicle has its own specifically designed key fob type. However, we can divide these remotes into general categories. We’ll take a look at the two most common types down below.
Standard Key Fob
This most basic kind of battery-operated remote has been around for decades. It has a more limited range of functions (usually just the lock and unlock buttons). But, it is compatible with more types of vehicles, especially older cars with standard ignitions.
Smart Remote
The smart remote is a more technologically advanced key fob for modern vehicles. In addition to the lock and unlock buttons, it usually comes with other features like the ability to open/close your trunk and keyless engine start.
What Can a Key Fob Do For My GM Vehicle?
Depending on which key fob you get, your wireless remote can give you access to several different features for interacting with your GM vehicle. Here are some of the most popular functions.
Lock and Unlock
This button comes standard on all keyless entry remotes. It uses an advanced encryption system to allow the driver to lock and unlock the car from a reasonable distance.
Keyless Engine Start
This special feature is available with smart remotes. It can start your vehicle’s engine without you having to turn the key in the ignition. Of course, it uses proximity tracking technology to make sure you are inside the car before starting it up.
Trunk Open and Close
This button can automatically open and close the trunk to save you time when you’re in a hurry.
Folding Top
With convertible vehicles, this feature allows you to unfold the top and fold it back into place with the press of a button.
How Do You Program a GM Key Fob?
The dealer should program the remote that comes with your new car. But if you’ve had to get a replacement, programming is a simple enough process. Here are step-by-step programming instructions.
- Ensure there are no broken or missing parts and insert the battery correctly.
- Insert the key into the ignition with the doors closed.
- Hold down the unlock tab and turn the key back and forth twice.
- Let go of the door’s unlock tab.
- Hold down both the lock and unlock buttons on the fob.
- Once you hear a reaction from the doors, return the key to the “on” position.
How Much Is a New GM Key Fob?
The price of a new remote will vary based on the car it goes with, but most of them fall into the neighborhood of around one hundred dollars. However, shopping on a third-party site specializing in key fobs or auto parts can usually save you quite a bit of money. These sites can also help you if you just need to replace one part, like the battery. Their search result optimization features make it easy to find the items you want and add them to your cart. Plus, you’ll know the remote you receive is a genuine copyright GM key fob, which isn’t guaranteed when you search on other e-commerce platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Most sites have representatives that can you can contact by email if you have any questions.
How Do I Replace a Lost or Damaged GM Key Fob?
If your device doesn’t work like it used to, you can easily find a replacement on a site selling genuine copyright GM car parts. Search the online shop for the part you want and add it to your cart. Having a problem finding a compatible remote? Use search filters to view only devices that go with your car. If you want a replacement fob battery, you can probably find one in the same shop. Alternatively, you can stop by your local GM dealer and view their selection. You might want to email in advance to make sure they have one for your specific car.
General Motors Remotes — The Bottom Line
A key fob with advanced functionalities is a great way to streamline the way you use your GM vehicle. No matter what car model you drive, a keyless remote is sure to make your life easier. For more information on GM key fobs, send an email to your local GMC, Chevy, or Cadillac dealer, or visit their page on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.