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2004 Buick Rainier Key Fob Programming

Updated 2026 Programming, battery & replacement fob

You can program a 2004 Buick Rainier key fob yourself in a few minutes using a working key or remote, no dealer visit needed. Follow the steps below, then check the battery and the correct replacement fob (with FCC ID and part number) if you need a new one.

Remote / key fob programming

This GM vehicle uses a hold-the-Unlock-switch method to program remotes — reprogram every transmitter, including existing ones. A few models can't use it (see tip), and 2001–2005 Impala and Monte Carlo use the radio menu instead.

Standard method

  1. 1Close all vehicle doors.
  2. 2Insert the key into the ignition.
  3. 3Press and hold UNLOCK on the driver's-door panel — keep holding until step 5.
  4. 4Do these in fairly rapid succession: turn the ignition ON (don't crank), then OFF, then ON again, then OFF.
  5. 5Release the Unlock button. The doors should lock and unlock on their own.
  6. 6Press and hold LOCK and UNLOCK together on the transmitter until the doors lock and unlock to confirm (up to 30 seconds).
  7. 7Repeat for each additional transmitter, including existing ones.
  8. 8Turn the ignition to ON to exit programming mode.

Radio method (2001–2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo)

  1. 1Turn the ignition to ACC or ON with the radio off (don't crank the engine).
  2. 2Press and hold the radio's DISP button at least 5 seconds until SETTINGS shows.
  3. 3Press SEEK up or down until FOB PROG appears.
  4. 4Press PREV or NEXT to enter the submenu; BEGIN is displayed.
  5. 5Press DISP to start. When PUSH FOB flashes, press and hold LOCK and UNLOCK together on the first transmitter for 15 seconds — a chime confirms it.
  6. 6Repeat for each additional transmitter (up to 4 total), pressing LOCK and UNLOCK on the next one.
  7. 7To exit, scroll to EXIT and press DISP (a chime confirms).

Tips & troubleshooting

  • The standard method won't work on certain GM models (e.g. 2000–2004 Cadillac Seville/DeVille, 2001–2006 Chevrolet Astro/Express, 2001–2005 Blazer SUV, 2001–2004 Corvette and Malibu, 2001–2005 Monte Carlo, 2001–2004 GMC Jimmy, 2001–2005 Safari, 2000–2005 Pontiac Bonneville, 2004 Grand Prix) — those need a locksmith or dealer.

Key programming

On this GM vehicle you can program a new transponder key yourself using a key that already starts the engine. It takes under a minute per key.

Before you start

  • A key that already starts the engine
  • Your new key, already cut
  1. 1Insert a working key that starts the engine and start the engine.
  2. 2Turn the key to OFF and remove it.
  3. 3Within 10 seconds, insert the new key and turn it to ON — do not start the engine.
  4. 4Wait for the security light to go out. That means the key is programmed (it can happen so fast you may not see the light).
  5. 5To program another key, repeat from step 1.

Takes under a minute per key.

Tips & troubleshooting

  • If your vehicle has no security light (some 2004–2007 Grand Prix, Bonneville, and Impala), leave the new key in the ON position for 10 minutes and 45 seconds to be sure it programs.

Replacement key fob options

Match the FCC ID printed on the back of your existing fob to be sure of the right part.

Transponder Key

Find on Amazon

3-button Remote

Find on Amazon
FCC ID
MYT3X6898B
OE part #
15008008, 15008009, 15051014, 15051015, 15008010

2004 Buick Rainier key fob battery

Your 2004 Buick Rainier key fob uses a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell. A fresh one typically lasts 3–5 years.

Find CR2032 batteries on Amazon

How to replace the battery

  1. 1 Find the seam or small slot on the edge of the remote.
  2. 2 Twist a coin or small flathead in the slot to split the case open.
  3. 3 Remove the old coin cell and note the + side.
  4. 4 Fit the new battery with the + side matching, then close the case.
  5. 5 Press a button to confirm the LED lights, then test at the car.

Battery tips

  • Use a fresh, name-brand 3V lithium cell — bargain cells drain quickly.
  • Try not to touch both faces of the new battery; skin oils shorten its life.
  • If the remote still doesn't work after a new battery, it may need re-syncing or programming.

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