2021 Cadillac XT4

Programming Guide for 2021 Smart Keyless Entry Remote Fob

Important Notice: This vehicle supports onboard programming for smart key remote fobs. There are two distinct methods available depending on whether you currently have two functioning remotes. Carefully follow the appropriate procedure below for successful programming.

Programming When Two Recognized Remotes Are Available: If you already have two working remotes, follow these steps to pair a new one:

  • Step 1: Ensure the vehicle is turned off and all doors are securely closed.
  • Step 2: Place both recognized remote fobs into the front cupholder.
  • Step 3: Locate the keyhole cap on the driver’s door handle and remove it to reveal the lock cylinder.
  • Step 4: Take the emergency key from one of the remotes and insert it into the door lock. Turn the key to the unlock position five times within 10 seconds. This activates programming mode, and the display will show READY FOR REMOTE #2 or similar.
  • Step 5: Place the new remote fob into the same front cupholder.
  • Step 6: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button once (do not hold). The system will register the new remote and indicate readiness to learn another.
  • Step 7: Remove the remote from the cupholder and press the Lock or Unlock button to confirm that it was successfully programmed.
  • Step 8: Repeat Steps 5–7 for each additional remote you wish to program.
  • Step 9: Once programming is complete, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit programming mode.
  • Step 10: Return the mechanical key to the remote fob.
  • Step 11: Reattach the keyhole cap securely to the driver’s door handle.

Programming When No Recognized Remotes Are Present: If no working remotes are available, follow this extended process. It will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

  • Step 1: Confirm the vehicle is completely off and all doors are shut.
  • Step 2: Remove the keyhole cap from the driver’s door handle to access the lock cylinder.
  • Step 3: Insert the mechanical key into the door 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 the display changes to PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN.
  • Step 5: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button once. The display will return to REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.
  • Step 6: Repeat Steps 4 and 5 two more times, for a total of three 10-minute cycles. After the third cycle, all previously stored remotes will be erased, and the display will show READY FOR REMOTE #1.
  • Step 7: Place the first new remote fob into the front cupholder.
  • Step 8: Press the ENGINE START/STOP button to initiate programming. The display will confirm that the remote has been learned.
  • Step 9: Remove the remote from the cupholder and press the Lock or Unlock button to verify functionality.
  • Step 10: Repeat Steps 7 through 9 for any additional remotes you wish to add.
  • Step 11: After programming is complete, press and hold the ENGINE START/STOP button for 12 seconds to exit the mode.
  • Step 12: Reinsert the emergency key into the remote fob.
  • Step 13: Secure the keyhole cap back onto the driver’s door handle.

Additional Considerations:

Remote Limit: You can program up to eight remote fobs for the same vehicle.

Precise Timing Matters: All key turns and button presses must be performed promptly to avoid canceling the process.

Ownership Verification: If no remotes are available and technical assistance is needed, be prepared to show proof of ownership to authorize remote programming.