GM / Chevrolet Locksmith Specialist

Expert GM & Chevrolet Locksmith Services in Austin

General Motors brands - Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac - represent a massive share of vehicles on Austin roads. The Silverado is America’s second best-selling vehicle, and GM’s full-size truck and SUV lineup (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon) dominates Texas roads. GM has used various security systems over the decades, from the pioneering PASSKEY/VATS system to modern proximity keys with remote start integration.

South Austin Locksmith provides expert GM locksmith services for all brands and models. Our GM-certified technicians use manufacturer-specific programming equipment designed for GM’s unique security systems including PASSKEY, PK3 transponders, and modern proximity key technology.

GM Security Systems Evolution

PASSKEY/VATS (1986-2000s)

GM pioneered electronic vehicle security with the PASSKEY (Personal Automotive Security SYstem) also called VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System). This innovative system used keys with resistor pellets in 15 different resistance values (ohms). Found in:

PASSKEY I (1986-1990):

• Original Corvette system
• Simple resistor in key
• Module reads resistance to allow starting

PASSKEY II (1990-1996):

• Expanded to more GM models
• Improved security module
• Same 15 resistance values

PASSKEY III (1996-2007):

• Combined resistor with transponder chip
• Dual-layer security
• More difficult to defeat

Common PASSKEY vehicles:

• 1986-1996 Corvette
• 1990s Cadillac (DeVille, Seville, Eldorado)
• 1990s Camaro and Firebird
• 1990s Buick models
• Early 2000s models (transition period)

We can determine correct resistance values and cut proper PASSKEY/VATS keys for all these vehicles.

PK1/PK2 Transponder Systems (1997-2005)

GM introduced transponder chip keys alongside and eventually replacing PASSKEY:

PK1 (1997-1999):

• Basic transponder system
• Fixed code communication
• Found in late-90s GM models

PK2 (2000-2005):

• Enhanced transponder security
• Found in early-2000s Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban
• Improved encryption over PK1

PK3/PK3+ Systems (2004-2015)

Modern GM transponder systems with advanced features:

PK3 (2004-2010):

• Encrypted transponder communication
• Body Control Module (BCM) integration
• Found in mid-2000s Silverado, Tahoe, Malibu, Equinox

PK3+ (2010-2015):

• Enhanced PK3 with improved security
• Remote start integration
• Found in 2010-2015 GM models

Proximity Keys & Push-Button Start (2012-Present)

Modern GM vehicles feature proximity keys allowing:

• Keyless entry without touching fob
• Push-button or turn-knob engine start
• Remote start integration
• Walk-away auto-locking

Found in newer Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Equinox, Traverse, and luxury Cadillac models.

OnStar Integration

Many GM vehicles include OnStar telematics with key-related features:

• Remote door unlock service
• Stolen vehicle slowdown
• Remote key programming (some models)

We understand OnStar integration and can work around or with OnStar services for key programming.

GM Brands & Models We Service

Chevrolet

Silverado (Full-Size Truck):

• Fourth Gen (2019-present): Proximity keys, remote start
• Third Gen (2014-2018): PK3+ transponder, some proximity
• Second Gen (2007-2013): PK3 transponder systems
• First Gen (1999-2006): PK2 transponder, some PASSKEY III
• Classic (GMT400, 1988-1998): PASSKEY/VATS systems

Tahoe (Full-Size SUV):

• Fifth Gen (2021-present): Latest proximity technology
• Fourth Gen (2015-2020): PK3+ and proximity systems
• Third Gen (2007-2014): PK3 transponder keys
• Second Gen (2000-2006): PK2 transponder systems
• First Gen (1995-1999): PASSKEY/early transponder

Suburban (Extended Full-Size SUV): Same generations and security systems as Tahoe

Malibu (Midsize Sedan):

• Ninth Gen (2016-present): Proximity keys
• Eighth Gen (2013-2015): PK3+ transponder
• Seventh Gen (2008-2012): PK3 transponder systems
• Earlier generations: Various PK systems

Equinox (Compact SUV):

• Third Gen (2018-present): Proximity and PK3+ systems
• Second Gen (2010-2017): PK3+ transponder keys
• First Gen (2005-2009): PK3 transponder systems

Traverse (3-Row SUV):

• Second Gen (2018-present): Proximity keys
• First Gen (2009-2017): PK3+ transponder systems

Colorado (Midsize Truck):

• Second Gen (2015-present): PK3+ and proximity systems
• First Gen (2004-2012): PK3 transponder keys

Camaro:

• Sixth Gen (2016-present): Proximity keys, remote start
• Fifth Gen (2010-2015): PK3+ transponder systems
• Fourth Gen (1993-2002): PASSKEY II/III systems
• Earlier generations: PASSKEY systems

Corvette:

• C8 (2020-present): Advanced proximity system
• C7 (2014-2019): Proximity keys
• C6 (2005-2013): PK3 transponder systems
• C5 (1997-2004): PASSKEY III transition to PK1/PK2
• C4 (1984-1996): Original PASSKEY system

GMC

Sierra (Full-Size Truck): Identical security systems to Chevrolet Silverado by generation

Yukon (Full-Size SUV): Identical security systems to Chevrolet Tahoe by generation

Yukon XL: Identical security systems to Chevrolet Suburban by generation

Terrain (Compact SUV):

• Second Gen (2018-present): Proximity systems
• First Gen (2010-2017): PK3+ transponder keys

Acadia (Midsize SUV):

• Second Gen (2017-present): Proximity keys
• First Gen (2007-2016): PK3/PK3+ systems

Canyon (Midsize Truck): Identical security systems to Chevrolet Colorado by generation

Buick

Enclave (3-Row SUV):

• Second Gen (2018-present): Proximity systems
• First Gen (2008-2017): PK3/PK3+ transponder

Encore (Subcompact SUV): All generations: PK3+ and proximity systems

LaCrosse (Full-Size Sedan): Various generations: PK3 through proximity systems

Regal (Midsize Sedan): Various generations: PK3 through proximity systems

Classic Models: LeSabre, Park Avenue, Century, Riviera - mostly PASSKEY/VATS systems

Cadillac

Escalade (Luxury Full-Size SUV):

• Fifth Gen (2021-present): Advanced proximity
• Fourth Gen (2015-2020): Proximity systems
• Third Gen (2007-2014): PK3 transponder keys
• Second Gen (2002-2006): PK2/PK3 systems
• First Gen (1999-2000): PK1/PK2 systems

XT4, XT5, XT6 (Luxury SUVs): Modern proximity key systems with luxury features

CT4, CT5, CT6 (Luxury Sedans): Advanced proximity systems with Cadillac luxury key fobs

Classic Cadillacs: DeVille, Seville, Eldorado - PASSKEY systems

Discontinued GM Brands We Still Service

• Pontiac: G6, G8, Grand Am, Grand Prix, Firebird
• Saturn: All models (used GM security systems)
• Hummer: H2, H3 (GM-based security)
• Saab (GM-owned years): 9-3, 9-5
• Oldsmobile: Classic models

Common GM Key Issues We Resolve

PASSKEY/VATS Security Light Issues

“SECURITY” or “THEFT SYSTEM” light on, engine won’t start, need to wait 10 minutes before retry - classic PASSKEY problems. We can diagnose whether you need a new PASSKEY key, resistor replacement, or module repair.

Lost All GM Keys

Losing every key to a GM vehicle requires accessing the BCM or PCM to erase old key data and program new keys from scratch. We have GM-specific equipment for all-keys-lost scenarios across all security system types.

PK3 Programming Failures

PK3 and PK3+ systems can be challenging with generic programming equipment. We use GM-compatible professional tools for reliable PK3 transponder programming.

OnStar Interference

OnStar-equipped vehicles sometimes have programming complexities. We understand OnStar integration and can program keys even on OnStar-equipped vehicles.

Proximity Key Fob Issues

“KEY FOB NOT DETECTED” warnings, push-button won’t start, remote start not working - proximity key fob problems we resolve through replacement and programming.

Broken Keys in Ignition

GM ignition cylinders, especially in high-mileage Silverados and Tahoes, can experience broken key situations. We extract broken keys and provide replacements on-site.

Our GM Locksmith Process

1. Contact for GM Service

Call (512) 777-0915 with your GM vehicle brand, model, year, and key issue. We’ll identify your security system type (PASSKEY, PK3, proximity) and provide accurate pricing.

2. Mobile Service Arrival

Our GM locksmith arrives with:

• GM-compatible programming equipment
• PASSKEY resistor testing tools
• PK3 transponder programmers
• Proximity key programming gear
• GM key blanks for your model/year

3. GM Security System Identification

We identify your exact system:

• PASSKEY generation (I, II, or III) if applicable
• Transponder type (PK1, PK2, PK3, PK3+)
• Proximity key system presence
• OnStar integration
• BCM/PCM programming requirements

4. Key Cutting

Using professional equipment, we cut your GM key:

• Standard GM key blade cutting
• PASSKEY key with resistor installation
• Transponder key blade cutting
• Proximity key integrated blade (if applicable)

5. GM Security Programming

We program using manufacturer-specific procedures:

• PASSKEY resistor value verification
• PK3 transponder chip programming
• BCM/PCM immobilizer programming
• Proximity key fob programming
• Remote start integration (if equipped)

6. Complete Testing

Before leaving, we verify:

• Key unlocks all doors smoothly
• Security system recognizes key
• Engine starts reliably
• No security warning lights
• Proximity detection working (if equipped)
• Remote start functions (if equipped)

Why Choose Our GM Locksmith Service?

GM-Specific Expertise

We invest specifically in GM programming equipment and training across all GM brands (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac) and all security system generations from PASSKEY to modern proximity keys.

Professional GM Equipment

We use GM-compatible diagnostic and programming equipment that properly communicates with GM’s proprietary security protocols across all system types.

PASSKEY/VATS Specialists

Many locksmiths don’t have equipment for older PASSKEY/VATS systems. We can determine correct resistor values and create proper PASSKEY keys for classic GM vehicles.

All GM Brands

From Chevrolet work trucks to luxury Cadillacs, we service every GM brand with brand-specific knowledge of variations in security systems.

Mobile Convenience

We come to your GM vehicle’s location - home, work, parking lot, or roadside. No need to tow your Silverado, Tahoe, or Escalade to a dealer.

Cost-Effective Alternative

Dealer GM key service often costs $300-$600+. Our specialized service typically saves you 40-60% while using the same programming protocols.

24/7 Emergency Service

Lost GM keys at night? Silverado won’t start early morning? We’re available around the clock for GM emergency key service.

Service Areas

We provide mobile GM locksmith service throughout Greater Austin:

• Austin: All neighborhoods and districts
• Round Rock: Complete coverage
• Cedar Park: Full service area
• Georgetown: All areas
• Pflugerville: Complete coverage
• Kyle: All neighborhoods
• Buda: Full service
• Leander: Complete coverage
• Lakeway: All areas
• And surrounding communities

Pricing

GM locksmith service pricing by system type:

• PASSKEY/VATS key: $95-$150
• PK3 transponder key: $150-$225
• Proximity key with remote start: $225-$325
• Cadillac luxury model keys: $275-$450
• Corvette high-performance keys: $275-$450
• Lost all keys service: $200-$400
• Add spare key (with working key): $125-$225

Exact pricing depends on your GM brand, model, year, and specific security system. We provide upfront quotes before starting work.

GM / Chevrolet Locksmith - Call Now

Whether you drive a Silverado work truck, Tahoe family SUV, Malibu sedan, or luxury Cadillac Escalade, our GM locksmith specialists provide expert key services throughout Austin. We understand GM’s unique security systems from PASSKEY to modern proximity keys.

Call (512) 777-0915 for professional GM locksmith service. Our mobile technicians are available 24/7 with GM-specific programming equipment and expertise for all GM brands.

Call now: (512) 777-0915 or request service online for GM / Chevrolet locksmith service.