2017 Buick Regal

Programming Guide for 2017 Keyless Entry Remote Fob (Covers Flip Key and Keyless Access Smart Key Systems)

Important Overview:

The 2017 Regal is equipped with either: Flip Key (Standard Key Ignition) Smart Key (Keyless Access with Push-Button Start) Use the instructions below that match your vehicle's key system and current situation (with or without a recognized key or transmitter).

Flip Key Ignition System Programming a New Flip Key with a Recognized Key:

  • Step 1: Insert an existing, already-programmed key into the ignition.
  • Step 2: Turn the key to the ON/RUN position (do not start the engine).
  • Step 3: Turn the ignition to the OFF position and remove the key.
  • Step 4: Within 5 seconds, insert the new key into the ignition.
  • Step 5: Turn the new key to the ON/RUN position.
  • Step 6: Wait for the security indicator light to turn off, indicating successful programming.
  • Step 7: Repeat Steps 1–6 for each additional key.
  • Step 8: Test all keys to ensure they start the engine and operate the remote functions.

Programming Without a Recognized Flip Key (No Working Keys): This method takes about 30 minutes and is used when no programmed keys are available.

  • Step 1: Insert a new flip key into the ignition.
  • Step 2: Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position. The security light will illuminate.
  • Step 3: Wait for approximately 10 minutes until the light turns off.
  • Step 4: Turn the ignition to OFF, then repeat Steps 2–4 two more times.
  • Step 5: After the third 10-minute cycle, turn the ignition to ON/RUN again. → The new key is now programmed, and previous keys are erased.
  • Step 6: To program additional keys, follow the steps listed under recognized key.
  • Step 7: Test all new keys to confirm full functionality.

Smart Key System (Keyless Access with Push-Button Start) Programming a New Smart Key with a Recognized Transmitter:

  • Step 1: Place the working transmitter in the transmitter pocket, located inside the center console under the cupholder liner.
  • Step 2: Use the emergency key of the new transmitter to turn the driver’s door lock to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display: “Ready for Remote #2,” #3, etc.
  • Step 3: Place the new transmitter into the transmitter pocket, buttons facing up.
  • Step 4: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button to program the new transmitter.
  • Step 5: When accepted, the DIC will indicate readiness for the next transmitter.
  • Step 6: Remove the new transmitter and press the unlock button.
  • Step 7: Repeat Steps 3–6 for any additional transmitters.
  • Step 8: When finished, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 9: Reinstall the cupholder liner and test all remotes for proper function.

Programming Without a Recognized Smart Key (All Transmitters Lost): This method takes around 30 minutes and can program up to 8 transmitters. Not available in Canada.

  • Step 1: Use the emergency key to unlock the driver door and turn the lock to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The DIC will display: “Remote Learn Pending, Please Wait.”
  • Step 2: Wait for 10 minutes until the DIC reads: “Press Engine Start Button to Learn.” Then, press the ENGINE START/STOP button.
  • Step 3: The DIC will return to “Remote Learn Pending.” Repeat Step 2 two more times (three 10-minute cycles total). → After the third cycle, DIC displays: “Ready for Remote #1.”
  • Step 4: Place the new transmitter in the transmitter pocket with buttons facing up.
  • Step 5: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button.
  • Step 6: When accepted, the DIC will prompt for the next transmitter.
  • Step 7: Remove the transmitter from the pocket and press the unlock button.
  • Step 8: Repeat Steps 4–7 for any additional transmitters (up to 8 total).
  • Step 9: Press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 10: Replace the cupholder liner and test all transmitters for functionality.

Additional Considerations:

Maximum Capacity: Up to 8 transmitters or keys can be stored. Timing Is Crucial: Delays beyond specified limits may cause the process to fail.

Battery Check: Confirm all transmitters have working batteries before starting.

System Reset: When no recognized device is available, all previous keys/transmitters will be erased after programming is complete.