2018 Cadillac XT5

Programming Guide for 2018 Smart Keyless Entry Remote Fob

Important Notice: This vehicle allows onboard programming of smart key remote fobs. A new remote can be added using two recognized fobs or programmed using a timed procedure if no working fobs are available. Follow the steps below based on your situation.

Programming with Two Recognized Remote Fobs: Use this method if you currently have two functional remote fobs:

  • Step 1: Ensure the vehicle is completely turned off and that all doors are securely closed.
  • Step 2: Place both recognized remotes into the front cupholder.
  • Step 3: Locate and remove the cap from the mechanical key cylinder on the outside of the driver’s door handle.
  • Step 4: Insert the emergency key into the exposed lock and turn it to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. This will activate programming mode. The dashboard will display READY FOR REMOTE #2 or similar.
  • Step 5: Open the center console between the front seats, lift the inner storage tray, and place the new remote inside the transmitter pocket located beneath it.
  • Step 6: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button once. The system will learn the new remote and signal readiness to program another.
  • Step 7: Remove the newly programmed remote from the pocket and press either the Lock or Unlock button to confirm functionality.
  • Step 8: Repeat Steps 5 through 7 for each additional remote you want to program.
  • Step 9: Once all remotes have been programmed, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 10: Return the mechanical key into the remote.
  • Step 11: Reinstall the key lock cylinder cap on the driver’s door handle.

Programming Without Recognized Remote Fobs: If no working remotes are available, use the following 30-minute timed procedure:

  • Step 1: Ensure the vehicle is turned off and that all doors are closed.
  • Step 2: Remove the cap from the key lock cylinder on the driver’s door handle.
  • Step 3: Insert the emergency key into the lock and turn it to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. The display will show REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.
  • Step 4: Wait approximately 10 minutes until prompted to press the ENGINE START/STOP button.
  • Step 5: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button once. The screen will return to the waiting message.
  • Step 6: Repeat Steps 4 and 5 two more times. After the third 10-minute cycle, all previously recognized remotes will be erased, and the display will read READY FOR REMOTE #1.
  • Step 7: Open the center console, lift the storage tray, and place the new remote into the transmitter pocket located inside.
  • Step 8: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button. The vehicle will detect and learn the new remote.
  • Step 9: Remove the remote and press Lock or Unlock to verify that it has been successfully programmed.
  • Step 10: Repeat Steps 7 through 9 to program any additional remotes.
  • Step 11: When all remotes are programmed, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit the programming mode.
  • Step 12: Reinsert the mechanical key into the remote fob.
  • Step 13: Reinstall the keyhole cap on the driver’s door handle.

Additional Considerations:

Remote Limit: A total of up to eight remotes can be programmed to the vehicle.

Precision Matters: Perform all steps within the required time frames to avoid resetting the procedure.

Ownership Verification: If no remotes are functional and professional help is required, be prepared to provide proof of vehicle ownership before service can be completed.