Dealing with a car dealer to program a new remote control can be frustrating and expensive. Many car owners are looking for a do-it-yourself approach to save time and money. Fortunately, programming your car’s remote keyless entry can often be done at home with a few simple steps. While specific procedures can vary by make and model, a common method involves using your car’s ignition and door lock switches.
Here’s a general guide based on a procedure that works for some vehicles, which you can adapt, but always check your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate instructions.
- Close all vehicle doors. Ensure all doors, including the trunk or hatch, are fully closed.
- Insert your key into the ignition. Do not turn the ignition on yet.
- Press and hold the DOOR unlock switch. This is the physical switch on your car door panel, not on the remote itself.
- Cycle the ignition ON, OFF, ON, OFF, ON, OFF three times. While holding the unlock switch, turn the ignition to the “ON” position and then back to “OFF” three times in quick succession. Leave the key in the ignition.
- Release the DOOR unlock switch. At this point, the doors should lock and unlock automatically once to confirm that the system has entered programming mode.
- Program your remote. Simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote you wish to program for about 15 seconds. The doors should lock and unlock again to confirm successful programming of that remote.
- Repeat for additional remotes. If you have more remotes to program, repeat step 6 immediately for each additional remote. Remember to reprogram any existing remotes at this time as the process might erase previous programming.
- Exit programming mode. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position (one click further than accessory) to exit the remote programming mode.
- Test your remotes. Operate the buttons on each remote to verify they are working correctly, locking and unlocking the doors as expected.
Important Note: This is a general procedure and might not be applicable to all vehicles, including the Pontiac Solstice or your specific car model. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the precise instructions for programming your remote control. The owner’s manual is the most reliable source for model-specific information and will ensure you program your remote correctly. If you are unsure or encounter difficulties, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or your car dealership is recommended.
