Many 2021-2023 GMC Sierra models in the USA/Canada use a smart/proximity push‑to‑start system with a 5‑button key fob that controls locking, unlocking, remote start, tailgate, and panic functions. When adding a key, the new OEM‑type smart fob must be correctly matched to the vehicle, then programmed using the vehicle’s onboard procedures or appropriate equipment so that the immobilizer, keyless entry, remote start, and tailgate functions all operate correctly. Programming typically requires access to the vehicle, all existing keys, and following the specified sequence from GM or a professional locksmith; exact steps vary by trim and equipment.
Key types used on the Sierra HD:
smart/proximity key (push-to-start) with integrated remote (5-button, lock/unlock/remote start/tailgate/panic) (2021-2023 (at least on Sierra/Sierra HD trims equipped with smart key system; documented for 2021, 2022, 2023))
Common fob FCC IDs: HYQ1ES — check the back of your fob; we confirm the exact variant on site.
2021 GMC Sierra HD
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (25 steps)
Vehicle and Requirements
Programming step
1 Applies to 2021 GMC Sierra HD keyless access (smart key) systems
Programming step
2 Vehicle must be off for programming procedures
Programming step
3 All transmitters (recognized and new) must be present during programming
Programming step
4 Feature to program without recognized transmitters not available in Canada
Programming step
5 On-board programming not possible for vehicles with separate key and remote; professional required
Programming with Recognized Transmitters
Programming step
1 Requires two recognized transmitters to be present
Remove the key
2 Remove key from recognized transmitter before starting
Insert the key
3 Insert key into driver door lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
4 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC when ready
Press / hold a fob button
5 Place new transmitter in center console transmitter pocket/insert and press ENGINE START/STOP to learn
Programming without Recognized Transmitters
Programming step
1 Procedure allows programming up to eight transmitters and takes ~30 minutes
Remove the key
2 Remove vehicle key from transmitter before starting
Insert the key
3 Insert key into driver door lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds; DIC shows REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Hold fob to START button
4 Wait for DIC prompt PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN, then press ENGINE START/STOP; repeat this press-wait sequence three times
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
5 After third cycle, DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1 and previously known transmitters will no longer work
Transmitter Pocket / Learning Steps
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket/insert located in front of center console storage tray between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket/insert before pressing ENGINE START/STOP
Programming step
3 When transmitter is learned, DIC indicates readiness to program the next transmitter
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
4 Remove transmitter from pocket and press unlock or lock on the transmitter to confirm learning
Programming step
5 Repeat pocket placement and ENGINE START/STOP steps for each additional transmitter
Exiting Programming and Professional Service
Press / hold a fob button
1 After programming all transmitters, press and hold ENGINE START/STOP for ~12 seconds to exit programming mode
Programming step
2 Return key back into the transmitter after completing programming
Programming step
3 Vehicles with separate key and remote require a qualified professional (locksmith) to program smart key remote fobs
Programming step
4 Locksmith services available via Low Rate Locksmith and may program at shop or on-site with specialized computer equipment
Programming step
5 Driving vehicle to locksmith may reduce cost compared to mobile service
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (18 steps)
Vehicle and General Notes
Programming step
1 Applies to keyless access (smart key) vehicles; some procedures not available in Canada
Programming step
2 Programming may require a qualified professional if separate key and remote exist
Programming step
3 Procedure durations: about 30 minutes for remote-learn without recognized transmitters
Programming with Recognized Transmitters (Step Sequence)
Remove the key
1 Remove key from recognized transmitter before starting
Insert the key
2 Insert vehicle key into driver door key lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
3 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC. when ready to learn
Press / hold a fob button
4 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket/insert and press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; DIC confirms ready for next remote
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 After learning each transmitter, remove it and press unlock or lock; repeat steps for additional transmitters
Programming without Recognized Transmitters (Step Sequence)
Remove the key
1 Remove vehicle key from transmitter before starting procedure
Insert the key
2 Insert key into driver door lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds; DIC shows REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Hold fob to START button
3 Wait ~10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN; press ENGINE START/STOP then repeat this press/wait sequence a total of three times
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
4 After third cycle, all previously known transmitters will no longer work and DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in pocket/insert, press ENGINE START/STOP to learn, then remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for up to eight transmitters, exit by holding ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds
Transmitter Location, Handling, and Troubleshooting
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket/insert located in front of center console storage tray between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Center console storage area and storage tray must be opened to access transmitter pocket/insert
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
3 After learning, remove transmitter and press unlock or lock to register confirmation
Programming step
4 If key fob not working, first attempt battery replacement per provided battery resource link
Programming step
5 If on-board programming unavailable (separate key and remote), locksmith required to program using specialized equipment; driving vehicle to locksmith may save cost versus mobile service
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (20 steps)
Programming with Recognized Transmitters (Keyless Access Vehicles Only)
Programming step
1 Requirement: Two recognized transmitters must be present; vehicle must be off
Remove the key
2 Step: Remove key from recognized transmitter; place recognized transmitters in cupholder or passenger seat
Insert the key
3 Door cylinder action: Insert vehicle key into driver door lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
4 DIC prompt: Displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC; place new transmitter in transmitter pocket/insert
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Learning sequence: Press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; press unlock/lock on transmitter to confirm; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit programming mode
Programming without Recognized Transmitters (Keyless Access Vehicles Only)
Programming step
1 Applicability: No currently recognized transmitters available; feature not available in Canada; takes ~30 minutes; vehicle must be off
Remove the key
2 Initial steps: Remove vehicle key from transmitter; insert key into driver door lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds
Hold fob to START button
3 DIC sequence: Displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT; wait ~10 minutes until PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN appears
Press / hold a fob button
4 Triple press: Press ENGINE START/STOP three times (with waits); after third time all previously known transmitters will no longer work; DIC then shows READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Learning steps: Place new transmitter in pocket/insert; press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; press unlock/lock on transmitter to confirm; repeat for additional transmitters; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Transmitter Pocket / Physical Locations & Actions
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket location: In front of center console storage area, next to storage area between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Access method: Open center console storage area and storage tray to reach transmitter pocket/insert
Remove the key
3 Key removal/return: Remove key from recognized transmitter before programming; return key back into transmitter after programming
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
4 Confirmation action: Remove transmitter from pocket then press unlock or lock on transmitter to confirm learning
Programming step
5 Limit: Up to eight transmitters can be programmed when no recognized transmitters are available
Year coverage comes from our consolidated vehicle programming dataset. Route-level programming status is reviewed against internal route sheets and available manufacturer, security-access, and professional tool references. Exact button sequences are marked source-verified only when we have year/equipment-specific support; where a year is labeled “route verified, steps vary,” we confirm the exact fob, trim, and prompts before programming. Reviewed for route and safety by Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith.
Year
Route status
Exact steps
2021
Route verified
General guidance
2022
Route verified
General guidance
2023
Route verified
General guidance
Common questions
What type of key does a 2021-2023 GMC Sierra HD use?
Equipped models use a smart/proximity push-to-start system with a 5-button remote fob for lock, unlock, remote start, tailgate, and panic functions.
Can I buy an aftermarket fob for my 2021-2023 Sierra HD?
Yes, but it must match the correct FCC ID (HYQ1ES) and be properly programmed to your truck to operate keyless entry, remote start, and tailgate functions.
Do I need all my keys present when programming a new Sierra HD fob?
It is strongly recommended to have all working keys present, as programming can affect how many remotes the vehicle recognizes and ensures all continue to function correctly.
Can you program a Sierra HD key fob without going to the dealership?
For most years, yes - the route is onboard relearn or an OBD tool, both of which a mobile locksmith handles at your location.
Does this program the remote only, or the transponder key too?
It depends on your key type. Tell us your FCC ID and we will confirm.
What if my year says professional programming required?
Those years need a programmer or security access; we bring the tool to you and program it on site.
How much does it cost?
It depends on year, key type, and whether you have a working key. Call (833) 439-8636 for a firm price before we dispatch.
Need your Sierra HD fob programmed? We come to you, 24/7.
