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2008 GMC Savana-2500 Key Fob Programming

Updated 2026 Programming, battery & replacement fob

You can program a 2008 GMC Savana-2500 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

There are two ways to program remotes on this GM vehicle, depending on whether it has a Driver Information Center. You must reprogram every remote, including ones that already work (up to 8).

Before you start

  • All your remotes, including working ones
  • Your key

If your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC)

  1. 1Insert the key and switch the ignition to ON (just shy of starting, engine not cranking).
  2. 2Press the vehicle information button (right of the steering wheel, a vehicle icon with an 'i') until PRESS TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY shows.
  3. 3Press the set/reset button (marked with a checkmark) until REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE shows — you're in programming mode.
  4. 4Press and hold LOCK and UNLOCK together on the first remote about 15 seconds, until a tone confirms it.
  5. 5Repeat for each additional remote, including working ones.
  6. 6Turn the ignition OFF, remove the key, and test all remotes.

If your vehicle has no Driver Information Center

  1. 1Insert the key and turn to ON (just shy of starting, engine not cranking).
  2. 2Press the trip-odometer reset button until RELEARN REMOTE KEY shows.
  3. 3Press and hold the trip-odometer reset button about 3 seconds until REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE shows.
  4. 4Press and hold LOCK and UNLOCK together on the first remote about 15 seconds, until a tone confirms it.
  5. 5Repeat for each additional remote, including working ones.
  6. 6Turn the ignition OFF, remove the key, and test all remotes.

Tips & troubleshooting

  • Won't work on 2011-and-newer vehicles — those require dealer or locksmith programming.

Key programming

Professional programming required

This key fob can't be programmed with a do-it-yourself procedure. The vehicle needs a diagnostic tool connected to its OBD port to pair a new fob, so a replacement has to be set up by an automotive locksmith or a dealer.

Order the correct replacement fob below — match the FCC ID on your current fob first — then have a local automotive locksmith or the dealer program it to your vehicle.

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
OUC60221, OUC60270
OE part #
15913420, 15857834, 20869056, 20868852, 20952475, 22936099, 25836192, 5922034, 5946030

4-button Remote

Find on Amazon
FCC ID
OUC60221, OUC60270
OE part #
15883405, 20877108

2008 GMC Savana-2500 key fob battery

Your 2008 GMC Savana-2500 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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Rather hire a pro?

See what it actually costs, broken out by dealer, locksmith, and DIY:

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