Immobilizer System Component Programming: Notes

2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV, 4WDSECTION Notes

This procedure will learn the immobilizer function. If the battery voltage is low, charge the battery before proceeding with the learn. If the Body Control Module (BCM) or Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) have been replaced, they must be programmed before performing this learn procedure.

Depending on the immobilizer function being learned or the component replaced, different learn functions are required to be performed. These learn functions are as follows:

When the function should be used: Function name on SPS tool: Function description: Notes:
The BCM has been replaced and the existing vehicle keys are being reused or a diagnostic has instructed to perform the learn Body Control Module IMMO Function with Existing Transponder or Remote Key The BCM will relearn the immobilizer passwords and data while reusing the existing vehicle keys -
The BCM has been replaced and new vehicle keys are being reused Body Control Module IMMO Function with New Transponder or Remote Key The BCM will relearn the immobilizer passwords and data while using new vehicle keys -
The DMCM has been replaced or a diagnostic has instructed to perform the learn Drive Motor Control Module IMMO Learn The DMCM will relearn the immobilizer passwords and data -
The BCM, PCM and DMCM have been replaced (this selection will REQUIRE new vehicle keys be used) Body Control Module, Powertrain Control Module, and Drive Motor Control Module Control Module IMMO Learn The BCM, PCM, and DMCM will learn new immobilizer passwords and data Because the BCM, PCM, and DMCM have been replaced and are learning new immobilizer passwords and data, all vehicle keys must also be replaced
A new vehicle key is being added (does not affect other vehicle keys) Program Transponder or Remote Key (Add) A new vehicle key will learn the immobilizer passwords and data This function may not be available in all sales regions
All vehicle keys are desired to be invalidated and certain keys relearned or a diagnostic has instructed to perform the learn Program Transponder or Remote Key (Delete) All existing vehicle keys will be invalidated and any desired keys are relearned This procedure may be used if a customer has had their keys lost or stolen and wishes to invalidate the keys, making them unable to start the vehicle
NOTE:

To prevent errors or immobilizer learn failure, the vehicle must be in Park (for automatic transmission) or Neutral with park brake applied (for manual transmission).

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle and access SPS.
  2. Ensure the vehicle is in SERVICE MODE
  3. Ensure that all power consuming devices are turned OFF on the vehicle.
  4. Select SPS application and follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. Select IMMO Immobilizer Learn.
  6. Select the appropriate programming function based on the component that was replaced or is being programmed. Refer to the table at the top of this document for assistance in choosing the correct programming function.
  7. NOTE:
    • At multiple times during the learn procedure, SPS will instruct you to turn the ignition to the run position. Make sure the vehicle is actually in the run mode before continuing on the SPS terminal. If the ignition is not in run mode, the learn procedure will fail. To verify the vehicle is in Run mode, verify the green LED is illuminated on the ignition mode switch.
    • For the transmitter pocket location refer to the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation document in the owner's manual.
  8. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  9. When the SPS procedure has completed, press and hold the ignition mode switch for 15 seconds.
  10. With a scan tool, clear any DTCs.
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