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Chevrolet Silverado: How to Install Remote Start/Alarm

Remote start is so handy to have. Your Silverado 1500 may already have it; learn how to check here.

By Mark Garrett - June 3, 2015
Contributors: sxecrew

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

So your Silverado has all of the cool options. Tilt, windows, locks, cruise – but what about remote start? Figured it would be too expensive to add? Your truck very well may already have everything installed for remote start except there is no key on the fob for it. If your truck shows that it has option package AP8, then you are in luck. You can purchase the key fob transmitter that has the remote start key on it and have the dealer or a shop with a J2534 programmer add the program to the BCM (Body Control Module).

Materials Needed

  • Key fob transmitter with the remote start key
  • Option AP8 on truck

Step 1 – Look for AP8 option code

Look in your glove box for the options installed on your truck from the factory. You are looking for option code AP8 listed. If your vehicle has option code AP8, all you need are the correct key fob transmitters and you will have remote starting just like you order it.

Figure 1. Codes in glove box.

Step 2 – Get correct key fob transmitter

You can get your new remote from the dealer or somewhere else like eBay or Amazon as long as they are compatible with the factory system. The new factory remotes will look like the following.

  • Figure 2. Factory fob with remote start button.
  • Figure 3. Factory fob package.

There must be an authorization code with the fob. That is the code that has to be given to GM to add to the BCM for the remote start to work. Non-factory remote fobs are out there and may work. Verify with the seller that they are fully compatible with the factory AP8 system on your truck.

Figure 4. Kit contents.

Step 3 – Take to dealer for programming

You have to take your truck to the dealer or a shop that has a J2534 programmer to add the program to the BCM (Body Control Module) that adds the remote start feature for your truck. The dealer will perform the programming for the remote you supply. That is all there is to getting the remote start function added to your Silverado. Prepare to be heated or cooled before you get in.

Pro Tip

The BCM can be programmed for up to 4 remotes. You can still use the original non-remote start fobs for the other functions. Be sure they still work before you depend on them, though.

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