2018 Buick Regal Sportback

Programming Guide for 2018 Buick Regal Sportback Keyless Entry Remote Fob (Smart Key / Keyless Access System)

Overview: The 2018 Regal Sportback is equipped with a Keyless Access system. Remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitters can be programmed in two ways: If two working transmitters are available If no working transmitters are available Use the procedure that best matches your situation. Programming with Two Recognized Transmitters Use this process when two functional RKE transmitters are already programmed to the vehicle.

  • Step 1: Place both recognized RKE transmitters into the storage bin marked with a lock icon. (This storage bin is located inside the center console or under the cupholder insert.)
  • Step 2: Remove the key lock cylinder cap from the driver’s door handle.
  • Step 3: Using the mechanical key from the new transmitter, insert it into the driver’s door lock and turn it to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display: “Ready for Remote #3”, #4, or the next available slot.
  • Step 4: Place the new transmitter into the storage bin, ensuring the buttons face upward.
  • Step 5: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button to initiate programming. → The DIC will confirm when the transmitter is learned and ready for the next.
  • Step 6: Remove the newly programmed transmitter from the bin and press the unlock button to confirm functionality.
  • Step 7: Repeat Steps 3–6 to program any additional transmitters.
  • Step 8: Once all desired transmitters are programmed, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 9: Reinsert the mechanical key into the new transmitter and reinstall the key lock cylinder cap.

Programming Without a Recognized Transmitter: Use this method if no working transmitters are currently available. This process takes approximately 30 minutes and can program up to eight transmitters.

  • Step 1: Remove the key lock cylinder cap from the exterior driver’s door.
  • Step 2: Insert the mechanical key from the new transmitter into the driver door lock and turn to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. → The DIC will display: “Remote Learn Pending. Please Wait.”
  • Step 3: Wait approximately 10 minutes until the DIC updates to: “Press Engine Start Button to Learn.” Then, press the ENGINE START/STOP button.
  • Step 4: The DIC will return to “Remote Learn Pending.” Repeat Step 3 two additional times (three 10-minute cycles total).
  • Step 5: After the third cycle, the DIC will display: “Ready for Remote #1.”
  • Step 6: Place the new transmitter into the storage bin, buttons facing up.
  • Step 7: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button to complete programming for that transmitter. → The DIC will prompt readiness for the next remote.
  • Step 8: Remove the transmitter from the bin and press the unlock button to confirm.
  • Step 9: Repeat Steps 6–8 to program up to eight transmitters total.
  • Step 10: After all transmitters have been programmed, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 11: Reinsert the emergency key into the new transmitter and reinstall the key lock cylinder cap.

Additional Tips:

Maximum Limit: The vehicle supports up to eight remote transmitters.

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

Timing Is Key: Ensure actions like key turns and button presses occur within specified windows.

System Reset: When programming without any recognized transmitter, all existing transmitters will be erased from the system.