Key fob programming not working?

Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
  • 3.8L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 248,679 MILES
I purchase this car without any key fobs. I purchased two new fobs and plugged in a diagnostic tool and is unable to program the remotes. It keeps saying programming failed. My question is, could it be a faulty ECU or wrong type of key fob because there is one with remote start and one without. Also, could it be some type of controller in the car that is faulty?
Sunday, June 4th, 2023 AT 7:59 AM

10 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
Yes, it could be the fobs or the BCM needs to be replaced, I would start with a CAN scan, you can get a CAN scanner (Controller Area Network) which will work on most cars from Amazon.

Here is a video to show you how:

https://youtu.be/u-4syLc-ifQ

Here is how to change out the BCM in the images below in case you need it. Also, I have included the security system wiring diagrams so you can see which fuses to test and how the system works. Check out the images (below). Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.

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Monday, June 5th, 2023 AT 10:36 AM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 107 POSTS
Yes, I have AUTEL MaxiSys MS906 BT.
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Monday, June 5th, 2023 AT 6:11 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Those are good scanners.
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Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 AT 8:37 AM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 107 POSTS
The only codes I have are the throttle pedal code and throttle code.
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Saturday, June 17th, 2023 AT 4:08 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Faulty ECU or controller: While it is possible for a faulty ECU or controller to cause programming issues, it is less likely in this case, especially if the rest of the vehicle's functions are working properly.
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Saturday, June 17th, 2023 AT 9:53 AM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 107 POSTS
I purchased an OEM Key Fob and still cannot program it.
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Tuesday, August 1st, 2023 AT 3:38 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Did it come with instructions? Some aftermarket key fob are better for programming FYI.
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Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023 AT 6:16 PM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 107 POSTS
No. I purchased it online and the description states it must be programmed by a professional automotive locksmith or dealership.
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Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 AT 3:27 AM
Tiny
RONALD DEVOLD
  • MEMBER
  • 107 POSTS
I had also reprogrammed the ECU using GM Tech online software and still no luck.
Or is it the BCM?
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Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 AT 3:35 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yep, the BCM is what holds the key and fob programming. Let me know what happens please.
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Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 AT 10:24 AM

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