From what i can gather, a 2006 is the one where you can't program your own replacement remote. It's said you should go to a locksmith or dealer for that one. The only reason I don't quite trust that info, however, is that all of the dealer and mechanic's pages I could find on the subject all link to the same one external, off-site page. But what if that source got it wrong? So before I go selling my blood to pay for this-and before I bother to buy a remote-has anyone here programmed their own remote for a 2006? Thanks!

 

2002 what ? - HHR - 2006 to 2011

 

There corrected, it’s a 2006, per the profile page.

 

You can, IF you get a replacement fob with a programming module. Dorman sells them at most auto parts stores, ebay, Amazon. The fobs that come with the kit sometimes don't work right, best to get a GM fob and use the module.

Otherwise no, you can't do it yourself if you just get a $12 fob.

 

And technically, you're programming the car, not the fob.

 

Most ACE Hardwares will do it for 25 bucks, lots better than a dealer or most locksmiths

 

From somebody who just bought the Dorman remote with its own programming tool, I can barely recommend it, there is at least two reasons (if not 3) that are drawbacks though. First I have to be within 7 feet of the car to unlock it, the range is terrible. Secondly, I got an error that the key fob battery is low, and from what I read on the reviews page, its a common issue with the aftermarket dorman fob and not a low battery. (Yes still could be the battery I suppose, and may be related to the range but 1000 amazon reviews point otherwise) And the last reason which may or may not be due to the fob, the remote start don’t work with mine (yes I have that option and no there is no check engine light on). Still have not ruled that last one in or out related to my fob but thought it was worth mentioning.

The upside? It was cheap and is better than nothing. Currently saving to buy a factory one

 

All of you downsides have been experienced by others. There is a fix! the programmer work for GM fobs. Just get a cheap GM fob and use the programmer. Ebay for about $16 each. The programmer has a limited number of events 3-5, I think.

The fobs that have an LED on the circuit board seem to be the faulty ones.

 

Dang that’s why I love this forum so well. I would never had known that otherwise

 

There is a very simple solution to this issue - really not arguable in my opinion. I have had dozens of GM cars with keyless entry / remote start. Like everyone I try to save money where I can and I have purchased quite a few factory fobs and an equal number of aftermarket fobs. It’s a fact that the factory fobs always program and last quite a long time if handled reasonably. The aftermarket fobs usually program ok but longevity seems to be an issue and performance (distance) seems to be inconsistent. I have the tools to program my own vehicles but I have also used a local shop to do my vehicles before I had the ability to do myself. A GM Tech2 will accomplish this in a few minutes. They never charged me more than $20. Why waste the time to buy the known less than optimal aftermarket parts and go through the time and effort to program them only to have poorer performance and longevity. Spend the money- buy a known quantity GM fob and be done. Life is too short to waste time on minor issues like this. Jumping over dollars chasing pennies comes to mind. Just my opinion.