How to Program Remote Start for GM Cars: A Comprehensive DIY Guide

Remote start is a highly desirable feature for many car owners, especially those in regions with extreme climates. Imagine pre-heating your car on a frigid winter morning or cooling it down on a scorching summer day – the convenience is undeniable. While newer GM vehicles often come equipped with this feature, many owners of older models might find themselves longing for this functionality. Dealerships often offer remote start kits, but these can be expensive, including both the kit itself and professional installation labor.

The good news is that for many GM vehicles manufactured after 2006, enabling remote start can be achieved through reprogramming, often without the need for a costly kit. This guide will walk you through the process of how to program remote start for your GM car, empowering you to potentially unlock this feature yourself. It’s important to note that while this method has been reported to work for many, it involves modifying your vehicle’s software and should be undertaken with caution. If you’re not comfortable with vehicle reprogramming, seeking professional assistance is always a safe alternative.

Understanding GM Remote Start Capabilities

A crucial piece of information to understand is that General Motors vehicles built after 2006 are often inherently “remote start capable.” This means that the necessary hardware and software foundations for remote start are often already present in the vehicle’s systems, even if the feature isn’t officially listed as an option or activated. This is because many GM vehicles, regardless of trim level, were manufactured with the potential for various add-on features. Remote start, surprisingly, is often one of these dormant capabilities.

This fact is often overlooked by dealership service centers. They may rely solely on the vehicle’s build sheet or option codes (RPO codes) and might incorrectly inform you that remote start cannot be added to your specific vehicle. In some cases, they might push you towards purchasing an expensive aftermarket kit and activation service. However, by delving into the vehicle’s database and utilizing the right tools, you can often tap into this hidden potential.

This guide is based on experiences shared by GM vehicle owners who have successfully activated remote start through reprogramming. It leverages the fact that many GM vehicles have flash memory-based modules that can be reprogrammed multiple times, allowing for feature additions and modifications beyond the factory configuration.

Tools and Software You’ll Need

To embark on this DIY remote start programming journey, you’ll need to gather specific tools and software. Here’s a list of the essentials:

• GM MDI Tool (or Clone): This is a diagnostic interface tool that allows communication with your GM vehicle’s electronic control units. While genuine GM MDI tools can be expensive, reliable clones are available online at significantly lower prices (ranging from $130 to $2000). Caution: Exercise caution when purchasing clones and avoid eBay. Explore reputable online sources. The EL-47955-2 model is often recommended as a well-regarded clone, closely resembling the original in functionality. Opt for a version with WiFi capability for convenience.

• Laptop Computer: A portable laptop is essential for running the diagnostic software, interfacing with the MDI tool, and applying the necessary programming changes to your vehicle.

• Tech2Win Software: This software is crucial for diagnosing and reprogramming GM vehicles. A permanently activated, inexpensive version of Tech2Win can be found online for around $15. Search for “Tech2Win cracked” using a search engine. This version often includes 32MB card bin files, supporting most GM vehicles up to approximately 2013.

• ACDelco Service Programming System (SPS) Subscription: You’ll need access to GM’s official calibration files and programming system. An ACDelco TDS (Technical Delivery System) subscription is required for this. A minimum 2-day subscription, costing around $55, should suffice. Search for “ACDelco TDS Subscriptions” to find the official website.

Depending on your vehicle’s specific configuration and the parts you source, you might also need the following hardware components:

• VIN from a Comparable GM Vehicle with Remote Start: To obtain the correct calibration data, you’ll need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of a GM vehicle that is the same make, model, and year as yours and is likely to have factory remote start. Craigslist or similar online classifieds are good sources. Search for your vehicle year and model with the keyword “VIN” (e.g., “2007 Equinox VIN”). Focus on higher trim levels (like LT2 or LTZ for Chevrolet) or models with features like leather interiors, as they are more likely to have remote start. If local searches are unfruitful, broaden your search to larger metropolitan areas.

• GM Remote Control Door Lock Receiver with Remote Start: You’ll need to replace your existing door lock receiver with one that supports remote start. Look for a GM OMRON receiver from a 2006-2013 (or potentially newer) vehicle that includes remote start functionality.

• Extended Range Antenna: An extended range antenna enhances the remote start system’s range. A good source is a 2006-2013 Chevrolet Impala. The antenna is typically located in the driver’s side front window pillar, under the plastic cover.

• Remote Start Wiring Harness and Hood Latch (or Hood Latch Connector): The wiring harness is necessary to connect the hood latch sensor and integrate the remote start system with your vehicle’s Body Control Module (BCM). Salvage the harness from any 2006 or newer GM vehicle equipped with remote start; it should have a 3-prong plug. If obtaining the complete hood latch is difficult, at least acquire the hood latch side connector with a length of wire attached for splicing. HHR models are often easily accessible sources for this connector.

• 2-Conduit Cable (Shielded Audio Cable Recommended): This cable will be used to run wires from the under-hood harness to the BCM inside the vehicle cabin. Shielded audio cable is recommended to minimize electrical interference.

• Remotes with Remote Start Button: You’ll need key fobs that have the remote start button. These can be purchased affordably from online marketplaces like eBay.

• Soldering Iron and Solder: Soldering is crucial for making reliable and durable electrical connections. Avoid using crimp-on wiring connectors, as soldered and taped connections are more robust in a vehicle environment.

• Drill and Drill Bits, 7mm or 9/32 Socket and Socket Adapter: These tools might be needed for accessing the BCM and potentially for running wires through the firewall grommet.

• T-40 Torx Driver or Bit: A Torx driver might be required for removing certain interior panels.

• Flathead Screwdriver: A flathead screwdriver will be useful for prying and removing plastic trim pieces.

Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Remote Start

Safety First: Before beginning any work on your vehicle, ensure it is parked on a level surface, the parking brake is engaged, and the ignition is turned off. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for safety, especially when working with electrical components. However, for programming steps, a stable power supply is crucial, so ensure your battery is fully charged or use a battery maintainer during the process.

1. Installing the Remote Control Door Lock Receiver

The first hardware step is replacing your existing door lock receiver with the remote start-compatible version. The receiver’s location varies depending on your GM vehicle type:

• Crossovers (e.g., Equinox, Traverse): Typically found behind plastic cover panels in the rear passenger quarter panel, near the window and below the seatbelt guide. You might need to remove the lower panel first and then carefully flex or partially remove the upper panel to access the receiver.

• Cars and Minivans (e.g., Impala, Uplander): Usually located under the front top dash pad, near the defroster vent. Accessing it often involves carefully unsnapping the dash pad.

• Luxury Vehicles (e.g., Cadillac models) and Some Others: May be in the trunk under the rear deck or accessible by removing the rear seats and rear window pillar covers, followed by the rear deck cover.

• Lambda Crossovers (if not originally equipped with remote start): The receiver might be in the headliner, above and slightly ahead of the rear dome light.

Installation Procedure:

1. Carefully access the location of your existing door lock receiver by removing the necessary trim panels.
2. Disconnect the original receiver.
3. Connect the new remote start-compatible receiver.
4. Plug the extended range antenna into the new receiver.
5. Route the antenna wire along the inside of the panel and into the headliner, tucking it towards the rear of the vehicle.
6. Reassemble all removed trim panels.
7. Perform a Remote and TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) learn procedure. This can usually be done via the Driver Information Center (DIC) menus in your vehicle or using the Tech2Win software. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or Tech2Win documentation for the specific procedure.

2. Wiring the Hood Latch and BCM Connection

The next step involves installing the under-hood wiring harness and connecting it to your vehicle’s Body Control Module (BCM). The hood latch sensor is a safety feature that prevents remote start activation when the hood is open.

Wiring Procedure:

1. Locate the BCM: The BCM’s location varies.

   • GM Crossovers and SUVs: Often accessible by removing the center console cover. This may involve shifting the vehicle into neutral (with parking brake engaged), removing the shift knob, and carefully disassembling the center console trim.
   • Full-size GM Cars: Typically located under the driver’s side kick panel, below the steering wheel.
   • Other GM Vehicles: May be on the driver’s side to the left of the steering column or on the passenger side, to the right of the glove box (requiring glove box and possibly passenger kick panel removal).

2. Run Wires to the BCM:

   • Take the purple and pink/black wires from the remote start wiring harness.
   • Attach these wires to the 2-conduit cable.
   • Route the cable along the driver’s side under the hood.
   • Find the rubber pass-through grommet on the driver’s side firewall (often near the steering column). This grommet usually has a thick red wire passing through it.
   • Carefully drill a small hole through the grommet, next to the existing wires.
   • Push the 2-conduit cable through the new hole, ensuring a tight fit to prevent water leaks. In some vehicles, the grommet might be on the passenger side.
   • Pull the cable through into the cabin, towards the center dash/BCM area.

3. BCM Wiring Connections:

   • Purple Wire: Connect the purple wire from the harness to the purple wire at pin 15 of the brown plug (Plug 5) on the BCM. This wire is often already present, indicating the pre-wiring for remote start.
   • Pink/Black Wire: Connect the pink/black wire from the harness to the pink/black wire at pin 17 of the black plug (Plug 4) on the BCM. Important: Disconnect the ignition key and turn off the vehicle before unplugging the black plug, as it provides main power to the BCM, and disconnecting it while the engine is running will cause the engine to shut off.
   • Black Wire (Ground): Connect the black wire from the harness to any convenient ground point near the BCM.

4. Hood Latch Installation:

   • Install the remote start hood latch, replacing your existing latch.
   • Plug in the hood latch connector to the harness.
   • If using a salvaged hood latch connector end, solder and tape the purple wire from the connector to the black wire from the harness. Do not plug it in yet.

5. Solder and Insulate Connections: Ensure all wire connections are soldered for a reliable connection and then properly insulated with electrical tape to prevent shorts and corrosion.

6. Reassemble Interior: Carefully reassemble all interior trim panels and components that were removed to access the BCM.

3. Programming with ACDelco SPS and Tech2Win

This is the software programming phase, which is the most critical and potentially risky part of the process. Proceed with extreme caution and at your own risk. Incorrect programming can potentially damage your vehicle’s Body Control Module (BCM). Ensure your vehicle’s battery is fully charged throughout this process. It is recommended to use a battery maintainer to prevent voltage drops during programming.

Programming Steps:

1. Access ACDelco Tis2Web (TDS): Go to the ACDelco TDS website (search for “ACDelco Tis2Web”).

2. Retrieve Original Calibration IDs:

   • Enter your vehicle’s VIN into Tis2Web and click “Get CAL ID.”
   • Click “Next.”
   • Select “Body Control Module” and click “Next.”
   • Select “System” (it should be highlighted red if multiple configurations exist). Click “Next.”
   • Note down the Calibration Selection Part Numbers displayed. These are your vehicle’s original BCM calibration IDs.

3. Retrieve Remote Start Calibration IDs:

   • Reload the Tis2Web main page (or use the website’s “Back” button, not the browser’s back button).
   • Enter the VIN of the comparable vehicle with remote start that you obtained earlier.
   • Repeat steps 2b-2e to navigate to the Body Control Module calibration information.
   • Note down the Calibration Selection Part Numbers for this vehicle as well. These should be slightly different from your original vehicle’s part numbers. For example, a 2007 Equinox without remote start might have calibration part numbers 25828506 and 25828508, while the remote start version might have 25828507 and 25828509.

4. (Optional) Contact ACDelco Support: If you wish to attempt a more “legitimate” approach, contact ACDelco Customer Service (888-212-8959 – aftermarket helpdesk). Inquire if they can add the remote start calibration part numbers you identified to your VIN’s SPS programming database. They might refuse or require an activation code. If they cannot or will not assist, proceed with the next steps.

5. Perform Calibration Updates Under Your VIN:

   • Log in to GM ACDelco SPS (using your paid subscription).
   • Enter your vehicle’s VIN and proceed.
   • Run all available calibration updates for all modules.
   • Carefully look for updates specifically related to “Remote Start,” particularly for modules like “Remote Control Door Lock Receiver” and “Theft Deterrent Module.” Apply these updates if available. However, this might not fully activate remote start unless ACDelco support added the specific calibration part numbers in the previous optional step.

6. (RISKY STEP) Perform BCM Update Using Remote Start VIN:

   • This step carries a risk of “bricking” your BCM if not performed correctly. Proceed at your own risk.
   • In SPS, select the “New VIN” button.
   • Manually enter the VIN of the vehicle with remote start and click “Next.”
   • Select “Body Control Module” and proceed as if you were going to update calibrations under this VIN.
   • “System” should be the only option marked as different.
   • Run the BCM calibration updates. This step will program the BCM with the calibration data from the remote start-equipped vehicle’s VIN. Note: This action will store the remote start VIN in your BCM.

7. Verify Remote Start Activation:

   • Clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) using SPS or Tech2Win.
   • Restart your vehicle.
   • Check if you get a “HOOD OPEN” warning on the DIC. This indicates the hood latch sensor is recognized.
   • You might encounter a check engine light or DTCs related to the Crankshaft Position Sensor, ABS, or Traction Control due to the VIN mismatch in the BCM.
   • Use Tech2Win to perform a “Crankshaft Position Sensor Relearn” procedure to clear the check engine light.
   • Ensure all other engine DTCs are cleared. ABS and Traction Control DTCs might persist temporarily due to the VIN difference.

8. Test Remote Start:

   • Turn off the engine.
   • Close the hood (or plug in the hood latch connector if you haven’t installed the full latch yet).
   • Lock all doors using the power door lock switch (ensure no doors are ajar).
   • Using the remote start key fob, press the lock button once, then press and hold the remote start button.
   • The vehicle should start. You might hear a brief “boot-up” sound sequence before it starts.
   • To turn off the engine, press the remote start button on the remote once.

9. Reprogram Other Modules with Remote Start VIN (To Match VINs):

   • To synchronize VINs across modules (and retain remote start), go back into SPS using the VIN of the vehicle with remote start.
   • Reprogram the following modules under this VIN: Body Control Module (again), Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Anti-lock Brake Control Module (ABS/EBCM), Power Steering Control Module (PSCM), and Radio.
   • You may receive prompts stating you are reprogramming with the same calibration already present. Click “OK” and continue.
   • Crucially, ensure you also reprogram the Theft Deterrent Module with the calibration for remote start (if a separate module update is available).
   • Use Tech2Win to verify the VIN change in these modules.

10. Inform Service Center (Optional but Recommended): When taking your vehicle for service, inform the GM service center that you have enabled remote start and that the VIN in SPS might show the remote start donor vehicle’s VIN. Explain that the VIN in SPS is correct for programming purposes. Note that ACDelco TDS disclaims that purchased firmware is yours to use.

11. Address DTCs and Perform Relearns:

    • Clear DTCs again after reprogramming all modules.
    • Redo the Crankshaft Position Sensor Relearn procedure in Tech2Win.
    • Perform “Setup new SDM” and “match the SDM key” procedures in Tech2Win (under “New procedures” in either Body Control Module or Supplemental Restraint Module Setup menus). This helps synchronize the airbag system after VIN changes.

12. Test Remote Start Again: Re-test the remote start functionality to confirm it is still working after VIN synchronization.

Important Considerations and Potential Issues

• Battery Voltage: Maintaining stable battery voltage throughout the programming process is paramount. Voltage drops can interrupt data transfer and potentially corrupt module programming. Use a battery maintainer or ensure a fully charged battery.

• Risk of BCM Damage (“Bricking”): Incorrect programming, especially flashing a BCM with the wrong calibration data or interrupting the process, can lead to BCM failure, often referred to as “bricking.” This can render your vehicle inoperable and require expensive BCM replacement and reprogramming. Follow the instructions precisely and proceed with caution.

• XM Radio Theftlock (Potential Issue): If you use XM satellite radio, changing the VIN in the radio module might cause it to become theft-locked.

  • If you don’t use XM: Simply unplug the XM receiver module to avoid issues.
  • If you use XM: A workaround involves disassembling the XM receiver and desoldering pin 8 of a specific chip (numbered 09400464). This is an advanced electronics modification and should only be attempted if you are comfortable with micro-soldering.

• “Torque Signal” and “Invalid Serial Data” Errors (2007 Theta Vehicles and Possibly Others): After updating the TCM, ECM, and ABS/EBCM on some vehicles (especially 2007 Theta platform vehicles like the Equinox), you might encounter temporary Stabilitrak disablement after driving around 60 miles. This might be accompanied by “Torque Signal” error in the TCM and “Invalid Serial Data” error in the ABS/EBCM.

  • Resolution: Disconnecting the battery cable for a couple of minutes usually clears these errors. Alternatively, use a scanner or Tech2Win to clear DTCs, clearing the TCM error first, then the ABS/EBCM error. This issue is often a one-time occurrence after the initial reprogramming. The cause is unclear but might be a software glitch.

Conclusion

Enabling remote start on your GM car through reprogramming can be a rewarding DIY project, potentially saving you significant money compared to dealership kit installations. By carefully following these steps, utilizing the correct tools and software, and exercising caution during the programming phase, you can potentially unlock this coveted feature on your vehicle.

Remember that this process involves modifying your vehicle’s software and carries inherent risks. If you are not comfortable with any part of this procedure, seeking professional help from a qualified automotive technician is always recommended. Enjoy the convenience of remote start once you’ve successfully completed the activation!