Auto Keys
GMC Key Replacement, Key Fob Programming & Smart Key Service
From transponder truck remotes to PEPS push-to-start smart keys, we cut and program GMC keys and fobs at your location across Palm Beach County.
GMC shares the GM platform with Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Buick, so its keys follow the same path from transponder remotes through flip-key remotes to today's PEPS passive-entry push-to-start smart keys. Identifying the year and whether the truck is turn-key or push-to-start is the first step in any GMC key job.
Our mobile techs carry blanks, cutters, and programming tools for the most common GMC lines in Palm Beach County, including the Sierra, Yukon, Acadia, and Terrain. Because GMC and Chevrolet share many fobs, we confirm the exact remote by VIN or the original key before we cut, and we tell you the price before we start.
GMC models we service
GMC key types by generation
GMC keys changed significantly from one era to the next. The right blank, chip, and programming path depend on the year, trim, and ignition type, which is why we ask for the details before selecting a key.
2000 to 2007: transponder remote keys
Full-size GMC trucks and SUVs used GM transponder keys with remote heads. The chip talks to the GM immobilizer, so a blade that fits the lock still will not start the engine unless the transponder is matched.
2008 to 2018: remote head and flip-key remotes
GMC moved to remote head and flip-key remotes that share the GM OUC60270-era system on trucks and crossovers. All-keys-lost work in this era is done by OBD with the right security access.
2015 to present: PEPS push-to-start smart keys
Push-to-start GMC models use PEPS (passive entry push start) smart keys such as the HYQ1EA and HYQ4EA on the Yukon, with HYQ1AA flip-key remotes on recent Sierra trucks. Replacing a lost smart key requires programming to the specific vehicle.
GMC key data by model
Verified blank, chip, and FCC references are marked accordingly. Where a value depends on trim, button count, or production date, confirm it from the original key, a VIN lookup, or a supplier catalog before cutting or ordering.
Data is drawn from professional locksmith key references. It is a starting point for identification, not a guarantee for your specific vehicle.
GMC Sierra Key Replacement
The Sierra shares its key systems with the Chevrolet Silverado and splits between turn-key and push-to-start, so confirming the ignition type matters before we cut.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000-2006 | Transponder remote head key | Shares the Silverado GM keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | Shares the GM KOBLEAR1XT-era system; confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Onboard procedure or OBD | Mechanical blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2007-2018 | Remote head / flip-key remote | Shares the Silverado GM keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | Shares the GM OUC60270-era system; confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | OBD programming | Mechanical or flip blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2019-2025 (flip key) | Flip-key remote | Shares the Silverado GM keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer | FCC HYQ1AA | OBD programming | Flip blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2020-2025 (push-to-start) | PEPS smart key (proximity) | Emergency insert blade | PEPS passive entry push start system | Shares the GM PEPS system; confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Proximity programming | Emergency insert | Confirm with original fob |
- •Because the Sierra and Silverado share fobs, we verify the remote against the original or VIN to avoid bringing the wrong key.
GMC Yukon / Yukon XL Key Replacement
The Yukon spans transponder remotes, remote head keys, and modern PEPS smart keys, mirroring the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000-2006 | Transponder remote head key | Shares the GM full-size SUV keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | Shares the GM KOBLEAR1XT-era system; confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | Onboard procedure or OBD | Mechanical blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2007-2014 | Remote head key | Shares the GM full-size SUV keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | Shares the GM OUC60270-era system; confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | OBD programming | Mechanical blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2015-2020 | PEPS smart key (proximity) | Emergency insert blade | PEPS passive entry push start system | FCC HYQ1EA | Proximity programming | Emergency insert | Verified from source data |
| 2021-2025 | PEPS smart key (proximity) | Emergency insert blade | PEPS passive entry push start system | FCC HYQ4EA | Proximity programming | Emergency insert | Verified from source data |
GMC Acadia / Terrain Key Replacement
The Acadia and Terrain crossovers use remote head and flip-key remotes on older models and proximity smart keys on newer push-to-start trims; we confirm the fob before cutting.
| Year range | Key type | Ilco / keyway | Chip / system | FCC / OEM | Programming | Emergency / service key | Source confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008-2014 | Remote head key | GM keyway; confirm from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | FCC OUC60270 (confirm by VIN) | OBD programming | Mechanical blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2015-2017 | Flip-key remote | Confirm keyway from original key | GM transponder immobilizer; confirm chip from original key | Confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | OBD programming | Flip blade | Confirm with original fob |
| 2018-2025 | Flip-key remote or smart key by trim | Emergency insert blade where push-to-start | PEPS where push-to-start; confirm by trim | Confirm FCC from original fob or VIN | OBD or proximity programming | Flip blade or emergency insert | Varies by trim |
Common GMC key problems
- •Worn transponder blades that turn the lock but no longer start the engine reliably.
- •Lost or water-damaged PEPS smart keys after a day on the water or at the beach.
- •All-keys-lost situations on push-to-start Yukon models that need programming to the vehicle.
- •Buttons that stop responding on remote head and flip keys while the blade still works.
- •Confusion between turn-key and push-to-start Sierra trucks of the same year.
- •Cracked flip-key housings on Sierra and Terrain remotes that no longer hold the blade.
GMC programming notes
- •Adding a spare to a vehicle that already has a working key is faster and cheaper than an all-keys-lost job.
- •All-keys-lost programming on many GM models needs proper security access, which can add time.
- •PEPS smart keys are programmed to one specific vehicle and cannot be moved to another GMC.
- •Because GMC and Chevrolet share many fobs, we verify the remote against the original or VIN before cutting.
- •We confirm the exact key code from the VIN or lock before cutting GM keys.
What to have ready before service
Sending these details when you call (561) 839-9919 lets us bring the right blank and programming tools on the first trip so your GMC job is done in one visit.
Real GMC locksmith scenarios
These are the GMC situations we actually get called for in Palm Beach County, with the technician's read on each one: what is happening, whether a mobile locksmith can solve it, and what the job typically involves. They are educational examples, not testimonials.
Key stuck in the ignition on a turn-key GMC
The key will not come out of the ignition, or it sticks and binds when you try to turn it.
Likely causes
- •Worn ignition lock cylinder, common on older GM trucks.
- •Worn key blade no longer aligning the wafers.
- •Shifter or transmission interlock not fully in park.
Programming
Only if a new key is required
Ignition repair
Often required
Key replacement
Frequently paired with cylinder work
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Cut a fresh key to code if the key is worn.
- •Repair or replace the ignition lock cylinder if it is the fault.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We diagnose whether it is the key or the cylinder and repair or rebuild the ignition as needed.
PEPS no key detected on a push-to-start GMC
A Yukon or push-to-start Sierra shows a no key detected message even with the fob in the cabin.
Likely causes
- •Dead or weak fob coin battery.
- •Failed or water-damaged PEPS smart key.
- •All fobs lost so none can be detected.
Programming
Required for a new fob
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the fob has failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the fob battery and retest.
- •Program a new PEPS smart key and cut the emergency insert blade.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We test the fob, replace the battery, or program a new PEPS smart key if it has failed.
Flip-key button failure on a Sierra or Terrain
Lock and unlock from the flip key stopped responding, though the blade still starts the truck.
Likely causes
- •Dead remote coin battery.
- •Worn buttons or a cracked remote board.
Programming
Only if a new remote is supplied
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the remote board has failed
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Replace the remote battery first as the cheapest fix.
- •Program a new flip-key remote if the board is damaged.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We replace the battery or supply and program a new flip-key remote.
Remote start no longer works
The factory remote start has stopped working from the fob even though the vehicle starts normally with the key.
Likely causes
- •Weak fob battery shortening remote-start range.
- •Remote start disabled by a stored fault or a previous all-keys event.
- •A fob that was never fully programmed for remote start functions.
Programming
Required if a new fob is supplied
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the fob has failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the fob battery and retest range.
- •Program a correct fob that supports the remote-start feature.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We check the fob and programming and supply a correct fob where the remote-start buttons have failed.
Lost all keys on a Sierra
Every key is gone and there is no working key to copy from.
Likely causes
- •All keys lost or stolen.
- •Only one key ever existed and it failed.
Programming
Required
Ignition repair
Not required unless the lock is damaged
Key replacement
Required
Complexity
Moderate to advanced
Common repair options
- •Cut and program a new flip key or PEPS smart key from scratch.
- •Add a spare at the same visit so you are never stranded again.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We generate and program a new key or smart key from the vehicle, though all-keys-lost jobs need proper security access and take longer.
Spare key while you still have a working one
You only have one key and want a backup before something happens to it.
Likely causes
- •Single key from a used purchase.
- •A lost spare never replaced.
Programming
Required to pair the spare
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Adding a spare
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut and program a duplicate flip key or PEPS smart key.
- •Store the spare somewhere safe and off the keyring.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. Adding a spare while you still have a working key is the fastest and cheapest key job there is.
Smart key not detected though the doors still work
The fob still locks and unlocks the doors, but the vehicle will not detect it to start.
Likely causes
- •Weak coin battery that still drives the buttons but not the proximity function.
- •Partial fob failure or antenna fault.
Programming
Required for a replacement fob
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the fob has partly failed
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Replace the coin battery first as the cheapest fix.
- •Program a new PEPS smart key if the original has failed.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We confirm whether it is the fob or the vehicle and program a replacement if needed.
Water-damaged smart key after a day on the water
The fob got wet at the beach or on the boat and now works intermittently or not at all.
Likely causes
- •Salt water or moisture corroding the fob board.
- •Swollen or shorted coin battery.
Programming
Required for the replacement
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Usually required
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Program a new PEPS smart key and cut the emergency insert blade.
- •Keep a dry spare for boating and beach days.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. A corroded fob is usually replaced and programmed rather than repaired.
Cracked flip-key housing that no longer holds the blade
The truck still starts, but the flip-key housing has cracked and the blade swings loose.
Likely causes
- •Worn flip-key housing after years of daily use.
- •Dropped key or a failed flip hinge.
Programming
Only if a new key is supplied
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
Shell swap or full key
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Rehouse the existing electronics and blade in a new flip housing.
- •Cut and program a new flip key if the electronics are also failing.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We can transfer the working electronics into a new housing or supply and program a fresh flip key.
Worn transponder blade that starts intermittently
The key turns the ignition but sometimes the engine will not start until you jiggle the key.
Likely causes
- •Worn key blade no longer aligning the wafers reliably.
- •Weak or failing transponder chip.
Programming
Required for a new key
Ignition repair
Only if the cylinder is also worn
Key replacement
Recommended
Complexity
Routine
Common repair options
- •Cut a new key to code rather than copying the worn one.
- •Inspect the ignition cylinder for wear at the same visit.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We cut a fresh key to the correct code and program a new chip so starting is reliable again.
Security light on, engine cranks but will not start
The engine turns over but never catches, and a security or theft light shows on the dash.
Likely causes
- •The transponder in the key is not being read by the GM immobilizer.
- •A failed or damaged chip, or a key that was never fully programmed.
Programming
Usually required
Ignition repair
Only if the lock or reader is also faulty
Key replacement
Often
Complexity
Moderate
Common repair options
- •Reprogram the existing key if the chip is intact.
- •Cut and program a new key if the chip has failed.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We diagnose whether the key is being read and reprogram or replace it so the immobilizer recognizes it.
Wrong fob brought because Sierra and Silverado share parts
A replacement fob ordered online does not pair, or it looks right but will not program to your Sierra.
Likely causes
- •GMC and Chevrolet share many fobs, so the wrong variant was supplied.
- •Button count or frequency does not match the vehicle.
Programming
Required for the correct fob
Ignition repair
Not required
Key replacement
If the supplied fob is wrong
Complexity
Routine to moderate
Common repair options
- •Match the exact fob by VIN or the original before ordering.
- •Program the correct flip key or PEPS smart key on site.
Can a locksmith help? Yes. We verify the correct part against your original fob or VIN before cutting and programming.
GMC Key & Fob FAQs
Can you make a GMC key if I lost all of them?
Yes. We generate and program a new key or smart key from your vehicle on site. All-keys-lost jobs on push-to-start models take a little longer because the key is programmed directly to the car.
Do you program GMC PEPS push-to-start smart keys?
Yes. We supply and program PEPS proximity smart keys such as the HYQ1EA and HYQ4EA on the Yukon and cut the emergency insert blade.
Is my Sierra turn-key or push-to-start?
Both exist across the years. If you insert and twist a key it is turn-key; if you press a button to start it is a PEPS smart key. Tell us which so we bring the right key.
What does it cost to replace a GMC key?
It depends on the year and whether it is a transponder remote, a flip key, or a PEPS smart key. We give you an up-front price over the phone before we head out.
Can you cut a spare GMC key from my working one?
Yes, and a spare made while you still have a working key is the cheapest key you will ever buy. We cut and program it on the spot.
Do you work on GMC trucks at my home or job site?
Yes. We are fully mobile and come to your home, workplace, or wherever the truck is parked in Palm Beach County.
My GMC key turns but won't start. What's wrong?
The chip in the key talks to the GM immobilizer. If the blade is fine but the engine cranks without starting or shows a security light, the transponder may have failed and the key needs reprogramming or replacement.
What information do you need to make a GMC key?
The year, model, VIN, whether it is turn-key or push-to-start, and proof you own the vehicle. A photo of your existing key or fob helps us match it.
Does a GMC fob work on the matching Chevrolet model?
GMC and Chevrolet share many fobs, but the remote still has to be programmed to your specific vehicle. We verify the exact part against your original or VIN before cutting.
Are aftermarket GMC keys reliable?
Quality varies. We carry keys and fobs we trust to program and hold up in the Florida climate, and we will tell you honestly when an OEM fob is the better choice.
Other makes we cut & program keys for
Understand your GMC key before you call
Plain-English guides from our locksmiths on how GMC keys, fobs, and immobilizers actually work, so you know what you are dealing with.
GMC keys near you
We bring GMC key cutting and programming to your door across Palm Beach County.
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