1996 Cadillac DeVille

Programming Guide for 1996 Remote Entry Fob System (Smart Key Compatible)

Important Notice: This 1996 model supports onboard programming for remote entry fobs. The procedure varies depending on whether the vehicle is equipped with an analog or digital instrument cluster. Carefully follow the instructions that apply to your configuration. Timely execution is required, as the system will cancel the process if inactive for too long.

Procedure for Analog Instrument Cluster:

  • Step 1: Enter Diagnostic Mode Press and hold the OFF and WARM buttons on the climate control panel at the same time. The instrument cluster will illuminate all indicator lights, then go blank. This confirms entry into diagnostic mode.
  • Step 2: Access Remote Programming Menu Press the PASSENGER COOLER button until the display shows RFA. Press FAN UP to proceed. If RFA DATA appears, press FAN DOWN. If RFA OVERRIDE appears, press FAN UP to continue.
  • Step 3: Start the Programming Process When the display shows RFA 500 NO OVERRIDE, press FAN DOWN. Wait for RFA 501 PROGRAM FOB #1 to appear, then press FAN UP. A ""0"" will appear on the Driver Information Center; press the WARM button until the display reads 99.
  • Step 4: Program the First Remote Press and hold the TRUNK button on the remote. While holding TRUNK, press and hold LOCK for one second. Hold both buttons together for 3 full seconds. The locks will cycle (lock and unlock) to indicate successful programming. If not completed within 30 seconds of entering override mode, the system will exit. Restart from Step 2 if necessary.
  • Step 5: Program an Additional Remote (Optional) Press FAN DOWN until RFA 502 PROGRAM FOB #2 is shown. Press FAN UP, then repeat Step 4 with the second remote.
  • Step 6: Exit Diagnostic Mode Press any of the following: AUTO, MODE UP, MODE DOWN, or RESET.

Procedure for Digital Instrument Cluster:

  • Step 1: Activate Diagnostic Mode Press and hold the OFF and WARM buttons on the climate control center. The instrument cluster will flash, go blank, and then enter diagnostic mode.
  • Step 2: Navigate to Programming Menu Press FAN DOWN until RFA appears. Press FAN UP to select. Press FAN DOWN again until RFA OVERRIDE is displayed. Press FAN UP to proceed. When NO OVRD RF 500 appears, press FAN UP once more.
  • Step 3: Enable Remote Programming Wait for PGM FOBL 501 to appear on the display. Press the WARM button—99 will appear in the upper-left corner, beneath the odometer. This indicates that the system is ready for programming.
  • Step 4: Program the First Remote Press and hold the TRUNK button on the fob. While holding it, press and hold the LOCK button for one second. Hold both buttons together for 3 full seconds. The locks will cycle to confirm the remote has been paired. If the system times out after 30 seconds without completing the process, restart from Step 2.
  • Step 5: Add a Second Remote (Optional) Press FAN UP until PGM FOB2 502 appears. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 using the second fob.
  • Step 6: Exit Programming Mode To exit, press either the RECIRC or RESET button.

Additional Considerations:

Battery Check: Make sure your remote’s battery is working properly before attempting programming.

Time-Sensitive: Programming must be done within 30 seconds of entering override mode.

Confirmation: Successful programming is confirmed when the vehicle’s locks cycle automatically.

Capacity: The system supports programming of up to two remotes.