2012 Buick Regal

Programming Guide for 2012 Keyless Entry Remote Fob (Covers Flip Key and Keyless Access Smart Key Systems)

Important Notice:

The 2012 Regal is available with two key types: Flip Key (mechanical key with integrated remote) Smart Key (Keyless Access with push-button start)

Programming procedures vary depending on whether you have: All keys lost One working key A smart key system Please follow the correct procedure based on your vehicle configuration and key status.

Flip Key System If All Keys Are Lost: This vehicle does not support onboard programming when no working flip keys are available. In this case, specialized programming tools are required, and the key must be programmed by a technician using diagnostic equipment.

If You Have One Working Flip Key and Want to Add a New Key:

  • Step 1: Insert the existing, programmed key into the ignition and turn it to the ON/RUN position (do not start the engine).
  • Step 2: Turn the ignition to the OFF/LOCK position and remove the key.
  • Step 3: Within five seconds, insert the new key into the ignition.
  • Step 4: Turn the new key to the ON/RUN position.
  • Step 5: Wait for the security light to turn off, indicating successful programming.
  • Step 6: Repeat Steps 1–5 for any additional keys.
  • Step 7: After programming, test all keys to ensure they start the engine and operate remote functions.

Smart Key System (Keyless Access, Push-Button Start) If All Smart Keys Are Lost:

  • Step 1: Use the emergency key from a new transmitter to manually unlock the driver’s door.
  • Step 2: Insert the key into the door lock and turn it to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display: “Remote Learn Pending. Please Wait.”
  • Step 3: Wait approximately 10 minutes until the DIC changes to: “Press Engine Start Button to Learn.” Then, press the engine start button. → The DIC will again display “Remote Learn Pending. Please Wait.”
  • Step 4: Repeat Step 3 two more times (for a total of 3 ignition cycles). After the third cycle, all previous transmitters will be erased. DIC will then show: “Ready for Remote #1.”
  • Step 5: Place the new transmitter in the transmitter pocket, located inside the center console beneath the cupholder. (The cupholder insert must be removed to access the pocket.)
  • Step 6: Press the engine start button. When accepted, the DIC will display: “Ready for Remote #2.”
  • Step 7: Remove the transmitter from the pocket and press the unlock button.
  • Step 8: Repeat Steps 5–7 to program additional transmitters.
  • Step 9: After all remotes are programmed, press and hold the engine start button for 5 seconds to exit programming mode.

If You Have One Working Smart Key and Want to Add Another:

  • Step 1: Place the working smart key in the center console cupholder. (This allows the system to detect the existing key.)
  • Step 2: Using the emergency key of the new transmitter, cycle the driver’s door lock to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The DIC will display: “Ready for Remote #2” (or #3, #4, etc.).
  • Step 3: Insert the new transmitter into the transmitter pocket (under the cupholder).
  • Step 4: Press the engine start button to program the new transmitter.
  • Step 5: When accepted, remove the transmitter and press the unlock button on it.
  • Step 6: Repeat Steps 3–5 for any additional transmitters.
  • Step 7: When all remotes are programmed, press and hold the engine start button for 5 seconds to exit programming mode.

Additional Considerations:

Smart Key Capacity: The system supports programming of up to eight transmitters.

Flip Key Limit: Typically allows up to eight flip keys as well.

Battery Check: Ensure all keys have working batteries prior to programming.

If Programming Fails: Start the procedure from the beginning and confirm each step is completed within the required time frame.