Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4EA) – Buick Fitment Guide

By Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith, mobile automotive locksmith. Reviewed by Ray Obar, Master Locksmith. Updated June 1, 2026.

Sourcing decisions for the Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4EA) split between OEM and aftermarket paths, each carrying trade-offs in cost, component consistency, and long-term reliability. An OEM unit from Strattec Security Corporation ensures factory-grade tolerances and verified internal electronics, while aftermarket variants of this fob may differ in housing finish and internal board revision. The Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4EA) requires proper on-vehicle programming regardless of which sourcing path a shop or vehicle owner selects. For technicians evaluating the device before installation, confirming FCC ID markings and blade profile compatibility is essential. When replacing the Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4EA), always verify against the specific model year to ensure correct electrical pairing.

Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4EA) – Validated Buick Applications

This proximity smart key has been validated for the following General Motors Buick models:

• Buick Enclave — 2018 model year
• Buick LaCrosse — 2017 through 2019 model years
• Buick Regal — 2018 through 2020 model years

These Buick platforms share GM’s push-to-start passive entry architecture, and the fob communicates wirelessly with the vehicle’s body control module to authorize engine start and door unlock functions. The HU100 keyway is present as an emergency mechanical blade, allowing physical access to the driver door if the key’s battery is depleted or the RF link fails.

Important Notes on Variant Differences

The HYQ4EA FCC designation covers multiple GM platform variants produced across several model years. Because internal electronics — including transponder chip revision — can differ between production runs and specific vehicle platforms, locksmiths and vehicle owners should exercise caution when ordering. The chip listed for certain versions of this smart key is the PCF7952E, but real-world variance exists across the model-year spread. Confirming the exact transponder type against the target vehicle’s immobilizer system prior to programming avoids costly rework.

Strattec Security Corporation, the original manufacturer behind many GM key products, produces this fob under its own part numbering system. Aftermarket sellers may cross-reference the FCC ID HYQ4EA to their own catalog numbers, so verifying the internal board revision — not just the external shell — matters when sourcing replacements.

HU100 Emergency Blade and Physical Access

The HU100 blade profile is the standard GM high-security sidewinder keyway used across a wide range of late-model Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC vehicles. The blade slides out from the fob housing and fits the driver-side door cylinder. Cutting this blade requires either a code cut from the vehicle’s key code or an impression/decode of the existing cylinder. Locksmiths should use a dedicated HU100 cutter and confirm the correct depth and space specifications for the target vehicle.

Programming Considerations

Adding or replacing this smart key on the validated Buick models typically requires a diagnostic scan tool capable of GM security module communication. The procedure involves pairing the fob’s RF transmitter and transponder with the body control module. On-board programming shortcuts are generally not available for proximity smart keys in this platform generation — a professional-grade tool or dealer-level diagnostic session is needed.

Because internal component revisions may vary, technicians should read the immobilizer data from the vehicle before committing to a programming sequence. If the vehicle reports an incompatible transponder type, the fob’s internal board may not match the expected specification for that particular model year.

When to Contact a Professional Locksmith

Vehicle owners who have lost all copies of this smart key face a more involved replacement process. Without a working fob present, the vehicle’s security module must be accessed and reprogrammed from scratch — a procedure that demands both the correct diagnostic tooling and verified replacement hardware. A qualified automotive locksmith experienced with GM proximity key systems can handle the full workflow on-site, from key sourcing through cutting the HU100 blade and completing the electronic pairing.

Related help: Buick auto locksmith, car key replacement, car key programming.

Compatible and related keys: compatible Bosma 3-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID L2C0007T), GM Mechanical Key Blank (GM39) (compatible fob), compatible Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID13), GM Transponder Key (chip ID13) (compatible fob), compatible Strattec 3-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID MYT3X6898B), Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) (compatible fob), Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID13) (compatible fob).