Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID46) – B111 Keyway for GM Vehicles

By Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith, mobile automotive locksmith. Reviewed by Ray Obar, Master Locksmith. Updated June 1, 2026.

Fitments for the Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID46) span a wide cross-section of General Motors platforms, including the Buick Enclave (2008–2017), Buick Lucerne (2006–2011), Cadillac DTS (2006–2011), Cadillac SRX (2004–2009), and numerous Chevrolet models from the Cobalt to the Suburban. Across all of these vehicles, the key carries an embedded ID46 transponder chip that must complete an electronic handshake with the vehicle’s immobilizer module before the engine will crank. Each Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID46) uses the B111 keyway profile, a standard mechanical cut found throughout GM’s ignition-lock catalog during this era. Owners replacing the device should expect both a mechanical blade cut and an on-board or tool-assisted programming procedure. When ordering a Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID46), confirm that the B111 blade profile and ID46 chip designation match the vehicle’s factory specification—mixing up chip families or keyway profiles is the most common source of no-start complaints after a replacement key is cut.

Strattec Transponder Key (chip ID46) – Vehicle Compatibility

The validated fitment list for this transponder key covers three GM divisions and model years stretching from 2000 through 2017. Below is the complete breakdown by make and model:

• Buick Enclave – 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
• Buick Lucerne – 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
• Cadillac DTS – 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
• Cadillac SRX – 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
• Chevrolet Avalanche – 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
• Chevrolet Cobalt – 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
• Chevrolet Equinox – 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
• Chevrolet Express – 2008
• Chevrolet HHR – 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
• Chevrolet Impala – 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
• Chevrolet Malibu – 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
• Chevrolet Monte Carlo – 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
• Chevrolet Silverado – 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
• Chevrolet Suburban – 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

Note that the Chevrolet Malibu appears in two distinct generation spans (2004–2007 and 2008–2012). While the exterior design changed significantly between those generations, both used the same B111 ignition lock cylinder that accepts this key’s blade profile. Locksmiths should still verify the VIN and factory key blank number before cutting—some fleet vehicles and Canadian-market trims can have atypical configurations.

ID46 Transponder Chip and B111 Keyway Technical Details

The ID46 designation refers to a crypto-capable transponder chip widely adopted by General Motors during the mid-2000s as part of the automaker’s Passlock III and later immobilizer strategies. When the key is inserted and turned, an inductive coil around the ignition cylinder powers the chip. The chip then responds with an encrypted rolling-code challenge-response sequence that the body control module (BCM) validates before enabling the fuel injector and starter circuits. Without a properly programmed ID46 chip in the key head, the engine will crank but refuse to start—a telltale sign of an immobilizer rejection.

The B111 keyway itself is a sidebar-style mechanical profile. The blade features cuts on the flat face plus a sidebar channel that must align with wafers inside the lock cylinder. Proper depth and spacing are critical; an improperly cut blade may turn the cylinder mechanically yet still fail the transponder authentication step if the chip is not positioned close enough to the antenna ring. Professional key-cutting machines with the correct B111 cutter and space/depth card (or electronic key data from a tool like the Lishi GM39 decoder) are standard equipment for this job.

Programming Procedures for Locksmiths

Adding or replacing this transponder key requires either an on-board programming sequence using existing working keys or a diagnostic tool session. The on-board method—sometimes called the “10-minute learn”—is the simplest path when a customer still has at least two functional keys. The procedure typically involves cycling the ignition with each existing key, waiting through a security relearn timer, and then inserting the new key so the BCM can register its ID46 chip signature.

If no working keys are available, a locksmith must connect to the OBD-II port with a compatible programmer (such as the Autel IM608, Smart Pro, or similar) and perform a full immobilizer reset. This erases all previously stored key IDs from the BCM and then enrolls the new transponder key from scratch. After programming, the technician should verify the key starts the engine and confirm that no security-related DTCs remain stored in the BCM. A brief road test or extended idle is recommended to ensure the security indicator lamp extinguishes and stays off.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Considerations

Strattec Security Corporation is the original equipment manufacturer of ignition locks and key blanks for General Motors. A genuine Strattec key blank carrying the ID46 chip is, for all practical purposes, an OEM part—it is the same blank that would have shipped with the vehicle from the factory. Aftermarket alternatives exist at lower price points, but quality varies. Common complaints with budget transponder blanks include chips that fail to program on the first attempt, blade tolerances that cause sticky ignition cylinders, and plastic key heads that crack under normal use.

For vehicle owners weighing cost against reliability, the genuine Strattec blank represents the lowest-risk option. It eliminates variables: the blade dimensions are factory-spec, the chip is known-good, and the key head material is the same injection-molded nylon used since original production. Locksmiths who stock the genuine part also reduce callback rates—fewer reprogramming attempts and fewer returns due to defective blanks.

When to Call a Locksmith

Vehicle owners who need a duplicate made from an existing working key can sometimes visit a dealership parts counter, but a mobile automotive locksmith is typically faster and less expensive. The locksmith arrives on-site, cuts the B111 blade to code or by impression, programs the ID46 chip to the vehicle’s BCM, and hands back a fully operational key—often in under 30 minutes. This convenience is especially valuable for owners of older models like the 2000–2007 Monte Carlo or 2004–2009 SRX, where dealership service departments may deprioritize legacy platforms.

If the ignition cylinder itself is worn or damaged—common on high-mileage Silverados and Suburbans—a locksmith can also rekey or replace the cylinder and cut the new transponder key to match, handling the entire job in a single visit. Requesting this service proactively can prevent a future roadside lockout.

Related help: Buick auto locksmith, Cadillac auto locksmith, Chevrolet auto locksmith, GMC auto locksmith, car key replacement, car key programming.

Compatible and related keys: Bosma Remote Key Fob (FCC ID OUC60270), compatible Lear 4-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID KOBLEAR1XT), Strattec Mechanical Key Blank (B102) (compatible fob), Aftermarket Remote Key Fob (FCC ID AB01502T) (compatible fob), related key: Bosma Remote Key Fob (FCC ID KOBUT1BT), GM Mechanical Key Blank (GM39) (compatible fob), GM OEM 3-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID LHJ011) (compatible fob), compatible Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ1EA), Continental Automotive 4-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID M3N32337100), Strattec Smart Key Fob (FCC ID HYQ4AS) (compatible fob).