Programming a new key fob for your car might seem daunting, but for some 1998 Cadillacs, it can be done without special tools like a Tech II scanner. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough for programming an OBDII key fob for specific 1998 Cadillac models, eliminating the need for professional assistance. This process utilizes the car’s built-in On-Board Diagnostics (OBDII) system and the Remote Function Actuator (RFA) module.
Programming a New Key Fob: A Step-by-Step Guide
This procedure applies to 1998 Cadillacs excluding the Seville (Seville requires Tech II for 1998 and later models) and Deville (Deville requires Tech II for 2000 and later models). Refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.
Before beginning, remember these controls:
- Fan Speed Up = Yes
- Fan Speed Down = No
- Off = Cancel
- Passenger Warmer = Increment
- Passenger Cooler = Decrement
Accessing the Diagnostic Menu:
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Initiate Diagnostic Mode: Press and hold the “Off” and “Passenger Warmer” buttons simultaneously for approximately three seconds. The entire dashboard will illuminate, indicating entry into diagnostic mode (bulb test).
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Navigate to RFA Module: The system will begin scrolling through diagnostic codes. Press “No” (Fan Speed Down) to bypass these and navigate through the module menu. Continue pressing “No” until you reach the “RFA?” prompt.
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Enter RFA Menu: When prompted with “RFA?”, press “Yes” (Fan Speed Up) to access the RFA menu.
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Access Key Fob Programming: Bypass “RFA Codes?” by pressing “No” until you see “RFA Override?”. Select “Yes”.
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Program FOB #1: The display will show “RFA S00 No Ovrd”. Press “Yes.” The next prompt will be “RFA S01 Program FOB#1”. Press “Yes.” The trip odometer will display “0”. Press “Increment” (Passenger Warmer) until it displays “99.”
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Program the Remote: Press and hold the trunk release button on the first key fob.
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Complete Programming: Within one second of pressing the trunk button, press and hold the lock button. Hold both buttons for three seconds. The locks will cycle, confirming successful programming.
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Program Additional Remotes: Repeat steps 5-7 for the second key fob, selecting “RFA S02 Program FOB #2” when prompted. Remember, you have 30 seconds after Step 5 to complete each key fob programming.
Exiting Diagnostic Mode:
Press “Cancel” (Off) repeatedly until the bulb test reappears. Press “Cancel” again to exit diagnostic mode.
Synchronizing an Existing Key Fob
If your previously programmed key fob becomes unsynchronized, follow these steps:
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Press and Hold Trunk Release: Press and hold the trunk release button on the key fob.
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Press Lock Button: Within one second, press and hold the lock button.
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Hold Both Buttons: Continue holding both buttons for seven seconds.
This simple procedure allows you to program or synchronize your key fob without specialized equipment, saving you time and potential expense. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your Cadillac model. While this process works for many 1998 Cadillacs, Sevilles and Devilles from model year 1998 and later require a Tech II scanner for programming.
