Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) – NCF2951E / 315 MHz / HU100
Used across a wide range of Chevrolet platforms including the Bolt, Equinox, Sonic, Spark, Trax, and Volt, the Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) serves as both a proximity remote and an immobilizer transponder carrier. Each Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) integrates the NCF2951E transponder chip and communicates at 315 MHz, enabling passive entry and push-to-start functionality. For technicians, this remote presents a two-stage programming requirement — RF pairing for keyless functions plus immobilizer enrollment for engine start authorization. Owners replacing the fob should be aware that the integrated HU100 emergency key blade must be cut to OEM spec before programming. A correctly provisioned Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) will seamlessly handle lock/unlock, remote start (where equipped), and ignition authentication across these GM vehicles.
Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) Technical Specifications
The core of this smart key is the NCF2951E transponder, which handles the cryptographic handshake between the fob and the vehicle’s body control module (BCM). Operating at 315 MHz, the device falls within the standard North American frequency allocation for automotive keyless entry systems. The HU100 keyway — a high-security sidebar profile used extensively across General Motors platforms — is incorporated as an emergency mechanical blade housed within the fob body. This blade allows manual door entry in the event of a dead fob battery or RF interference.
The FCC ID HYQ4AA is registered for this unit and can be verified through the FCC’s equipment authorization database. Locksmiths and diagnostics technicians familiar with GM proximity systems will recognize this FCC ID as a common identifier spanning several Chevrolet model years.
Vehicle Fitment Guide
The following Chevrolet models accept this fob as a validated fitment. Year ranges are specific and should be cross-referenced against VIN data before ordering or programming:
- Chevrolet Bolt — 2017 through 2023
- Chevrolet Equinox — 2018
- Chevrolet Sonic — 2012 through 2020
- Chevrolet Spark — 2015 through 2022
- Chevrolet Trax — 2013 through 2022
- Chevrolet Volt — 2016 through 2019
Note that the 2018 Equinox fitment is limited to a single model year. Technicians should confirm that the target vehicle’s BCM is compatible with the HYQ4AA before proceeding. VIN-level verification avoids situations where a visually identical fob carries a different FCC ID or transponder type — something that occurs more frequently than expected with GM’s overlapping product generations.
Programming Considerations for Locksmiths
Enrolling the Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) into a supported Chevrolet requires a diagnostic tool capable of communicating with the BCM over the OBD-II port. The process generally involves two discrete steps. First, the 315 MHz RF module is paired to the vehicle so that passive entry, lock, unlock, and trunk release commands are recognized. Second, the NCF2951E transponder must be enrolled in the immobilizer system to permit engine cranking and run authorization.
Most professional-grade automotive programming platforms from major tool manufacturers support HYQ4AA enrollment across all listed Chevrolet fitments. However, some model-year combinations — particularly the Chevrolet Bolt EV — may require updated software revisions to handle newer BCM firmware. Technicians should ensure their diagnostic tool’s Chevrolet coverage is current before arriving on-site.
The HU100 emergency blade will need to be cut if the fob is a new aftermarket or OEM replacement. This blade profile uses a sidebar mechanism and requires either an HU100 decoder or direct code cutting from the vehicle’s key code, which can be pulled via diagnostic software on most of these platforms. Precision is important here — a poorly cut HU100 blade can bind in the door lock cylinder and potentially damage the sidebar wafers.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Considerations
Strattec Security Corporation manufactures this smart key as an OEM-tier supplier. The company is a long-standing Tier 1 partner for General Motors, meaning the fob sold under the Strattec brand name is functionally identical to what ships from GM’s parts counter — often at a lower price point. Aftermarket alternatives using the same HYQ4AA FCC ID do exist, but quality can vary significantly in terms of case fitment, battery contact integrity, and the reliability of the NCF2951E transponder module inside.
For vehicle owners weighing cost against reliability, a Strattec-branded unit represents a middle path: genuine OEM-quality internals without the full dealer markup that accompanies a GM-branded part number. This unit is commercially available through locksmith distributors and automotive parts channels.
When to Contact a Locksmith
Vehicle owners who need a replacement for this fob should contact an automotive locksmith rather than defaulting to a dealership visit. A qualified mobile locksmith can cut the HU100 blade and program the remote on-site, typically completing both steps in a single appointment. This is especially relevant for owners of the Chevrolet Sonic, Spark, and Trax — vehicles where the cost of a dealer programming appointment can approach or exceed the cost of the fob itself.
Situations that commonly prompt replacement include physical damage to the fob housing, unresponsive buttons after battery replacement, or complete loss of all keys. In each of these scenarios, having the VIN available will help the locksmith verify fitment and pull key code data efficiently.
Battery and Maintenance Notes
The fob uses a standard coin-cell battery accessible via a seam on the case back. When battery voltage drops, the vehicle’s instrument cluster will typically display a “Key Fob Battery Low” message. Even with a dead battery, the NCF2951E transponder can still be read by the vehicle’s ring antenna when the fob is held against the start button — this is a passive RFID interaction that does not rely on battery power. The 315 MHz RF functions (remote lock, unlock, remote start) will cease to work without adequate battery charge, but engine start authorization remains functional through close-range transponder coupling.
Specifications and fitment
| Key type | Smart Key |
|---|---|
| Transponder chip | NCF2951E |
| Frequency (MHz) | 315 |
| Keyway | HU100 |
| FCC ID(s) | HYQ4AA |
| Region(s) | USA |
| Product type | Smart Key |
| Compatible makes | Chevrolet |
Listed vehicle fitment
| Make | Model | Years |
|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | Bolt | 2017–2023 |
| Chevrolet | Equinox | 2018– |
| Chevrolet | Sonic | 2012–2020 |
| Chevrolet | Spark | 2015–2022 |
| Chevrolet | Trax | 2013–2026 |
| Chevrolet | Volt | 2016–2019 |
Fitment must be confirmed against the existing key’s FCC ID family and the vehicle’s exact configuration before cutting or programming. VIN or photo verification may be required.
Questions and answers
Which vehicles does Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) fit?
Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) is listed to fit Chevrolet applications such as Chevrolet Bolt, Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Sonic, Chevrolet Spark. Confirm the exact year range and the existing key’s FCC ID family before ordering, since fitment can vary by trim and region.
Does Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) need programming?
Yes. Because it carries a transponder/remote function (chip NCF2951E), it must be programmed (paired) to the vehicle’s immobilizer and, for remote functions, to the keyless-entry system. Many vehicles also require at least one working key to add a new one.
Does the blade need to be cut?
A push-to-start smart key has no traditional blade to cut in normal use, though many include an emergency insert key that can be cut separately.
Is Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) OEM or aftermarket?
This listing is an aftermarket-grade replacement intended to match the original key’s electronic and mechanical specification. It is not required to carry a vehicle-brand logo and should be matched by FCC ID family and chip type rather than by appearance.
Check Fitment and Key Help
Low Rate Locksmith, a mobile automotive locksmith, can confirm whether Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AA) matches an existing FCC ID family and coordinate cutting and programming when the vehicle configuration requires professional service. For dispatch and support, call (833) 439-8636 or email info@lowratelocksmith.com.
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