If you’re a GMC owner, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle safe from theft.
However, sometimes the GMC theft deterrent system can malfunction, leaving you stranded and frustrated.
In this article, we’ll explore the GMC Theft Deterrent System Reset and how to perform it.
We’ll also discuss the reasons why the system may trigger and how to prevent it from happening.
Whether you’re dealing with a 2018 GMC or a 2007 GMC, this guide will help you reset the system and get back on the road.
Let’s dive in!
What are the causes of the GMC Theft Deterrent System?
The GMC Theft Deterrent System can trigger due to various reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:
1: Low battery charge
The theft deterrent system is electronic and requires battery power to work. If the battery isn’t holding a charge or it gets too low, it can trigger an error with the system. A low or dead battery can cause other issues too. You might have trouble starting the engine or running accessories, and the lights may not turn on.
2: Dead key fob battery
When the theft deterrent system is activated, your key fob is used to deactivate it. Additionally, sticking the key in the ignition can disable it. However, when the key fob battery is dead or there’s trouble with your key, you may not be able to deactivate the system. Instead, it sees you as a threat to the vehicle, thereby enabling the security system.
3: Broken key fob transponder
The transponder chip inside the key fob sends a signal to the car’s computer, which then sends a signal to the theft deterrent system. If the transponder chip is broken, the system may not recognize the signal, and the alarm may go off.
4: Faulty theft deterrent system
If none of the above issues are present, then the theft deterrent system itself may be faulty. In this case, it’s best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
What Is The GMC Theft Deterrent System Reset Procedure?
The theft deterrent system in GMC vehicles is designed to prevent unauthorized access and operation of the vehicle.
If you need to reset the theft deterrent system, it’s important to note that specific procedures may vary depending on the model and year of your GMC vehicle.
Additionally, the reset procedure may involve using the key fob, ignition key, or a combination of both.
Here is a general procedure that may work for some GMC vehicles:
- Insert Key
Insert the ignition key into the ignition switch and turn it to the “On” position.
- Wait for 10 Minutes
Allow the vehicle to sit with the key in the “On” position for about 10 minutes. This gives the theft deterrent system time to reset.
- Turn Key to Off
After waiting for 10 minutes, turn the key to the “Off” position.
- Repeat Steps
Repeat steps 1-3 two more times for a total of three cycles. This is often referred to as the “10-minute relearn procedure.”
- Start the Engine
After the third cycle, turn the key to the “Start” position. The engine should start if the reset procedure was successful.
What are The different types of GMC Theft Deterrent Systems?
Here are the different types of GMC Theft Deterrent Systems:
1: Advanced Theft Deterrent System
This system is designed to help deter the theft of your vehicle, gas, and wheels.
The package may include Electric Fuel Filler Lock, Steering Column Lock, Door Lock and Latch Shields, Vehicle Inclination Sensor, Interior Movement Sensor, Glass Breakage Sensors, and Shielded, Battery-Backed Alarm Siren.
The system works by detecting any break-in attempt through external and internal sensors working in harmony.
Once the attempt is detected, the car engine will be immobilized, and you will hear the beeping alarm. You can turn the sound off using your original key fob.
2: GMC Terrain Theft Deterrent System
This system is included in GMC vehicles built in the last 20+ years, including the GMC Terrain.
Depending on the model year, your vehicle’s theft deterrent system disables the fuel pump, ignition system, or starter if unauthorized access is detected.
The Advanced Theft Deterrent System is a comprehensive package that includes several features to protect your vehicle from theft.
The Electric Fuel Filler Lock is designed to prevent the siphoning of gas from the vehicle, while the Steering Column Lock activates automatically when you turn off and exit the vehicle.
The Door Lock and Latch Shields protect the door locks from being picked, while the Vehicle Inclination Sensor helps protect against wheel and vehicle theft by sensing situations in which the tilt of the vehicle changes, such as when it is jacked up or being towed.
The Interior Movement Sensor and Glass Breakage Sensors detect any movement inside the vehicle and any glass breakage, respectively.
Finally, the Shielded, Battery-Backed Alarm Siren alerts you and others nearby of any break-in attempt.
The GMC Terrain Theft Deterrent System is a simpler system that disables the fuel pump, ignition system, or starter if unauthorized access is detected.
Depending on the model year, the system may use a key fob, a transponder key, or a keyless entry system to detect authorized access.
What is the Cost of Repairing the GMC Theft Deterrent System?
According to a source, the cost of repairing the GMC Theft Deterrent System can range from $40 to $300 depending on your car type and capacity requirement.
However, the cost may vary depending on the specific issue with the system. If the issue is a low battery charge or a defective battery, it can be fixed for free.
If you’re still having trouble resetting the system, it’s best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
GMC Theft Deterrent System Relearn Procedures
The relearn procedure for the GMC Theft Deterrent System often involves a process called the “30-Minute Learn Procedure.” Keep in mind that the exact steps may vary based on the model and year of your GMC vehicle. Here is a general outline of the procedure:
GMC Theft Deterrent System Relearn Procedure (30-Minute Learn Procedure):
Attempt to Start
- Insert the key into the ignition and attempt to start the engine. The engine should crank and then stall.
Leave Key in the “On” Position
- Leave the key in the “On” position for approximately 10 minutes. The security light on the dashboard will likely be illuminated during this time.
Security Light Turns Off:
- After 10 minutes, the security light should turn off or stop flashing.
Turn Key to “Off” Position:
- Turn the key to the “Off” position and wait for at least 10 seconds.
Repeat Steps 1-4 Two More Times
- Repeat the entire process (steps 1-4) two more times for a total of three cycles. Each cycle should take approximately 30 minutes.
Start the Engine
- After completing the third cycle, turn the key to the “Start” position. The engine should now start and run.
Additional Tips
- Ensure that the battery is fully charged before starting the relearn procedure.
- Avoid disconnecting the battery during the relearn process, as it may interrupt the procedure.
- If the relearn procedure does not work, consult your vehicle’s specific owner’s manual or contact a GMC dealership for assistance.
How can I prevent the GMC Theft Deterrent System from triggering?
To prevent the GMC Theft Deterrent System from triggering, you can take the following steps:
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Keep your battery charged
The theft deterrent system is electronic and requires battery power to work. If the battery isn’t holding a charge or it gets too low, it can trigger an error with the system. A low or dead battery can cause other issues too. You might have trouble starting the engine or running accessories, and the lights may not turn on.
-
Replace your key fob battery
When the theft deterrent system is activated, your key fob is used to deactivate it. However, when the key fob battery is dead or there’s trouble with your key, you may not be able to deactivate the system. Instead, it sees you as a threat to the vehicle, thereby enabling the security system.
-
Check your key fob transponder
The transponder chip inside the key fob sends a signal to the car’s computer, which then sends a signal to the theft deterrent system. If the transponder chip is broken, the system may not recognize the signal, and the alarm may go off.
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Seek professional help
If none of the above issues are present, then the theft deterrent system itself may be faulty. In this case, it’s best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
What is a transponder chip in the GMC Theft Deterrent System?
A transponder chip is a small electronic device that is embedded in the head of the ignition key of your GMC vehicle.
The chip sends a signal to the car’s computer, which then sends a signal to the theft deterrent system.
If the transponder chip is broken, the system may not recognize the signal, and the alarm may go off.
The transponder chip is a crucial component of the GMC Theft Deterrent System, and it helps to prevent unauthorized access to your vehicle.
What should I do if the GMC Theft Deterrent System is triggered by mistake?
If the GMC Theft Deterrent System is triggered by mistake, you can take the following steps:
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Use your key fob
If the alarm goes off, use your key fob to turn it off. If you don’t have your key fob with you, you can try unlocking the driver’s side door with the key.
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Check your battery
If the alarm continues to go off, check your battery. A low or dead battery can cause the system to malfunction.
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Seek professional help
If the alarm still won’t turn off, it’s best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
How can I turn off the GMC Theft Deterrent System if my key fob is broken?
If your key fob is broken, you can still turn off the GMC Theft Deterrent System by using the keyless entry system. Here are the steps:
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Unlock the driver’s side door
Use the key to unlock the driver’s side door. This should turn off the alarm if it’s going off.
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Turn on the ignition
Once you’ve unlocked the driver’s side door, turn on the ignition. This should disable the alarm system.
FAQs
What is the GMC Theft Deterrent System?
The GMC Theft Deterrent System is an electronic system designed to prevent car theft. The system includes external and internal sensors working in harmony to detect any break-in attempt. Once the attempt is detected, the car engine will be immobilized, and you will hear the beeping alarm. You can turn the sound off using your original key fob.
How can I prevent the GMC Theft Deterrent System from triggering?
To prevent the system from triggering, keep your battery charged, replace your key fob battery, check your key fob transponder, and seek professional help if none of the above issues are present. In addition, GMC offers an Advanced Theft Deterrent System that includes several features to protect your vehicle from theft.
Conclusion
The GMC Theft Deterrent System is an essential feature that helps protect your vehicle from theft.
However, sometimes the system can malfunction, leaving you stranded and frustrated.
In this article, we’ve explored the GMC Theft Deterrent System Reset and how to perform it.
We’ve also discussed the reasons why the system may trigger and how to prevent it from happening.
Whether you’re dealing with a 2018 GMC or a 2007 GMC, this guide will help you reset the system and get back on the road.
Remember to keep your battery charged, replace your key fob battery, and check your key fob transponder to prevent the system from triggering.
If you’re still having trouble resetting the system, it’s best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue.
Thank you for reading!
