2008 Cadillac Escalade

Programming Guide for 2008 Smart Keyless Entry Remote Fob – Cadillac Escalade

Important Notice: The 2008 Escalade allows onboard programming for keyless entry remote fobs. Up to eight remotes can be programmed. Any remote not reprogrammed during the session may be erased from memory. Follow the procedure based on whether your vehicle is equipped with Driver Information Center (DIC) buttons.

Procedure A: For Vehicles With Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons

  • Step 1: Insert the Ignition Key Turn the key to the ON position (do not start the engine). This provides access to the Driver Information Center display.
  • Step 2: Navigate to the Relearn Option Press the Vehicle Information button until the display shows PRESS TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY.
  • Step 3: Enter Learning Mode Press the SET/RESET button. The display will now show REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE, indicating the vehicle is ready to receive remote signals.
  • Step 4: Program the First Remote Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the first remote simultaneously. Hold both buttons for approximately 15 seconds. A chime will sound when the remote is successfully programmed.
  • Step 5: Program Additional Remotes Repeat Step 4 for each additional remote you wish to program. A maximum of eight remotes can be stored. A chime confirms each successful programming.
  • Step 6: Exit Programming Mode Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key. This will end the programming session.
  • Step 7: Test All Remotes Test each programmed remote by verifying the lock, unlock, and tailgate functions operate properly.

Procedure B: For Vehicles Without DIC Buttons (Trip Odometer Stem Method) This method is used when your vehicle does not have dedicated Driver Information Center buttons.

  • Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle Ensure the gear is in Park (P) and turn the ignition key to the ON position (without starting the engine).
  • Step 2: Access the Relearn Menu Press the trip odometer reset stem repeatedly until the display reads RELEARN REMOTE KEY.
  • Step 3: Enter Programming Mode Press and hold the trip odometer reset stem for approximately three seconds. The display will update to REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE, confirming the system is ready for remote programming.
  • Step 4: Program the First Remote Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the remote simultaneously. Hold the buttons for about 15 seconds, or until a chime sounds or the door locks cycle.
  • Step 5: Program Additional Remotes Repeat Step 4 for each additional remote. The system supports up to eight remotes.
  • Step 6: Exit Programming Mode Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key to exit the programming session.
  • Step 7: Test All Remotes Check the function of each programmed remote by pressing the lock, unlock, and trunk/tailgate buttons.

Additional Considerations:

All Remotes Must Be Programmed in One Session: Any remotes not included will be removed from memory.

Remote Batteries: Ensure each remote has a working battery before beginning.

System Limit: A total of eight remotes can be stored by the system.

Chime Confirmation: Each successful programming will trigger a chime or lock cycle.

Programming Duration: The full process usually takes only a few minutes.