Cadillac XTS Key Fob Programming by Year
Can you program a XTS fob without the dealer? For most years, yes. Pick your year for the route and best next step.
Find your year
| Year | DIY onboard? | How it programs | Working fob? | Erase risk | Confidence | Best next step |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Varies | Yes | High | Follow the steps below |
| 2014 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Varies | Yes | Med | Follow the steps below |
| 2015 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Yes (1 working) | Yes | Med | Follow the steps below |
| 2016 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Varies | Yes | High | Follow the steps below |
| 2017 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Yes (1 working) | Possible | High | Follow the steps below |
| 2018 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | Yes (1 working) | Yes | Med | Follow the steps below |
| 2019 | Yes | Yes - onboard relearn | No (all-keys-lost OK) | Yes | High | Follow the steps below |
Cadillac XTS key types & programming facts
The 2013-2019 Cadillac XTS for the U.S./Canada market uses a smart proximity key fob with push-button start and an emergency mechanical key insert. Programming replacement fobs can be done through an onboard procedure that uses the driver’s door lock cylinder, the Driver Information Center prompts, and the console transmitter pocket, typically requiring at least one working or a timed security wait when all keys are lost.
Key types used on the XTS:
- smart/proximity key (keyless access with push-to-start and emergency insert key blade) (2013-2019)
2013 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (20 steps)
Vehicle and Materials Required
Programming step
1 Vehicle must be off for programming procedures
Programming step
2 All transmitters (recognized and new) must be present during programming
Programming step
3 Transmitter pocket located inside center console between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
4 Key lock cylinder cap must be removed to access driver door key cylinder
Programming step
5 ENGINE START/STOP button used to initiate and exit programming modes
Programming with a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Place recognized transmitter(s) in center console transmitter pocket
Insert the key
2 Insert vehicle key and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
3 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC when ready for new transmitter
Press / hold a fob button
4 Replace recognized transmitter with new transmitter in pocket and press ENGINE START/STOP
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Programming without a Recognized Transmitter
Insert the key
1 Insert vehicle key and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds to begin remote learn
Hold fob to START button
2 DIC initially displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT and later PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN
Press / hold a fob button
3 Press ENGINE START/STOP when prompted; repeat the press sequence three times total to erase previous transmitters
Programming step
4 DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1 after the third sequence and vehicle is ready to learn new transmitters
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in pocket, press ENGINE START/STOP to learn, remove and press unlock/lock; repeat for additional transmitters; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Timing and Sequence Details
Wait / timing window
1 Five rotations of key to unlock must occur within 10 seconds to trigger learn mode
Programming step
2 When programming without a recognized transmitter, procedure takes approximately 30 minutes
Wait / timing window
3 Wait about 10 minutes after initial key rotations for DIC prompt before pressing ENGINE START/STOP
Programming step
4 After learning each transmitter, DIC indicates readiness to program the next transmitter
Wait / timing window
5 Final exit from programming mode requires holding ENGINE START/STOP for approximately 12 seconds
Keys & fobs that fit the 2013 XTS
For the 2013 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2014 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (25 steps)
Vehicle and Tools Required
Programming step
1 2014 Cadillac XTS vehicle referenced for programming instructions
Programming step
2 Recognized transmitter(s) available for programming-with-recognized-transmitter method
Programming step
3 New transmitter(s) to be programmed placed with recognized transmitters
Programming step
4 All transmitters to be programmed present when using programming-without-recognized-transmitter method
Programming step
5 Center console storage area and storage tray access required to reach transmitter pocket
Transmitter Pocket and Key Access
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket located inside center console storage area between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Storage tray and storage area must be opened to access transmitter pocket
Programming step
3 Key lock cylinder cap must be removed from driver door handle
Programming step
4 Vehicle key inserted into key lock cylinder on driver door handle for programming steps
Programming step
5 ENGINE START/STOP button used during transmitter learning and exit of programming mode
Programming with a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Vehicle must be off and all transmitters, both recognized and new, must be with user
Programming step
2 Place recognized transmitter(s) in transmitter pocket inside center console
Turn ignition to ON
3 Turn vehicle key counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds to prompt DIC READY FOR REMOTE message
Press / hold a fob button
4 Replace recognized transmitter with new transmitter in pocket and press ENGINE START/STOP to learn transmitter
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Remove transmitter and press unlock or lock on transmitter; repeat for additional transmitters and press-and-hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Programming without a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Procedure available when no recognized transmitters exist; not available in Canada
Programming step
2 Vehicle must be off and all transmitters to be programmed must be present; procedure takes approximately 30 minutes
Turn ignition to ON
3 Turn vehicle key counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds to prompt DIC REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Hold fob to START button
4 Wait 10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN, then press ENGINE START/STOP and repeat this press two additional times to erase previous transmitters and get READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket, press ENGINE START/STOP to learn, remove and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters and press-and-hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Driver Information Center (DIC) Prompts and Timing
Programming step
1 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC during recognized-transmitter programming
Wait / timing window
2 DIC displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT at start of without-recognized-transmitter procedure
Hold fob to START button
3 After initial wait, DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN, requiring pressing ENGINE START/STOP
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
4 After three press cycles in without-recognized-transmitter method, all previously known transmitters will no longer work and DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1
Wait / timing window
5 Approximately 10-minute wait required during without-recognized-transmitter procedure; press-and-hold ENGINE START/STOP for ~12 seconds to exit programming mode
Keys & fobs that fit the 2014 XTS
For the 2014 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2015 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (20 steps)
Vehicle & Items Needed
Programming step
1 2015 Cadillac XTS vehicle specified for procedure
Programming step
2 Recognized transmitter(s) or new transmitters to be programmed
Programming step
3 Vehicle key and access to driver door key lock cylinder
Programming step
4 Center console storage area and internal transmitter pocket access
Programming step
5 ENGINE START/STOP button and Driver Information Center (DIC)
Programming with a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Vehicle must be off and all transmitters (recognized and new) must be present
Programming step
2 Open center console storage area and storage tray; place recognized transmitter(s) in transmitter pocket
Remove the key
3 Remove key lock cylinder cap, insert key into driver door lock cylinder, turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
4 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC; replace recognized transmitter with new transmitter in pocket
Press / hold a fob button
5 Press ENGINE START/STOP button; when learned, DIC prompts for next transmitter; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit programming when finished
Programming without a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Procedure used when no recognized transmitters are available; up to eight transmitters can be programmed; feature not available in Canada
Remove the key
2 Remove key lock cylinder cap, insert key, turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds; DIC displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Cycle the ignition ON/OFF
3 Wait ~10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN, then press ENGINE START/STOP; repeat this press-wait cycle three times total
Programming step
4 After third repetition, previously known transmitters no longer work; DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket, press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; remove transmitter and press unlock or lock to confirm; repeat for additional transmitters; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Transmitter Pocket & Physical Steps
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket located inside center console storage area between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Center console storage area and storage tray must be opened to access transmitter pocket
Programming step
3 Recognized transmitter(s) placed in pocket for programming with an existing transmitter
Programming step
4 New transmitters placed in pocket when DIC indicates READY FOR REMOTE # or during learn sequence
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 After learning, remove transmitter from pocket and press unlock or lock to validate programming
Keys & fobs that fit the 2015 XTS
For the 2015 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2016 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (25 steps)
Vehicle Requirements
Programming step
1 Vehicle must be off before programming begins
Programming step
2 All transmitters (recognized and new) must be present when programming with a recognized transmitter
Programming step
3 All transmitters to be programmed must be present when programming without a recognized transmitter
Programming step
4 Feature to program without a recognized transmitter not available in Canada
Programming step
5 Procedure without recognized transmitter takes approximately 30 minutes
Transmitter Pocket and Access
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket located inside center console storage between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Center console storage area and storage tray must be opened to access pocket
Programming step
3 New or recognized transmitter(s) placed in transmitter pocket during programming
Programming step
4 Transmitter orientation: buttons facing rear of vehicle when learning a new transmitter
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Transmitter removed from pocket and unlock or lock pressed to complete learn step
Programming with a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Start with vehicle off and all transmitters present
Programming step
2 Place recognized transmitter(s) in transmitter pocket
Insert the key
3 Insert key into driver door key lock cylinder, turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds
Press / hold a fob button
4 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC.; replace recognized transmitter with new one and press ENGINE START/STOP
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Programming without a Recognized Transmitter
Insert the key
1 Insert key into driver door key lock cylinder, turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds; DIC displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Close the doors
2 Wait 10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN; press ENGINE START/STOP (may need to open/close driver door to view DIC)
Press / hold a fob button
3 Repeat press sequence two additional times; after third time all previous transmitters will no longer work and DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press / hold a fob button
4 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket, press ENGINE START/STOP; DIC will indicate when transmitter is learned
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Driver Information Center (DIC) Messages and Timing
Programming step
1 After key turns, DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC. during recognized-transmitter method
Wait / timing window
2 In no-recognized method, initial DIC message REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT appears after key turns
Hold fob to START button
3 DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN when ready for ENGINE START/STOP press
Programming step
4 After third repetition in no-recognized method, DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1 and previous transmitters are erased
Wait / timing window
5 Exit programming mode by pressing and holding ENGINE START/STOP for approximately 12 seconds when finished
Keys & fobs that fit the 2016 XTS
For the 2016 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2017 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (20 steps)
Vehicle and Materials Requirements
Programming step
1 Vehicle must be off to begin programming procedures
Programming step
2 All transmitters (recognized and new) must be present when programming
Programming step
3 Transmitter pocket located inside center console storage between front seats
Programming step
4 Key lock cylinder cap must be removed to access driver door key cylinder
Programming step
5 Feature to program without recognized transmitter not available in Canada
Programming with Two Recognized Transmitters
Remove the key
1 Remove vehicle key from recognized transmitter before starting
Programming step
2 Place recognized transmitters in cupholder during procedure
Insert the key
3 Insert key into driver door key lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds
Programming step
4 DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC when ready for programming
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket and press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; press unlock/lock after removal; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Programming Without a Recognized Transmitter
Insert the key
1 Insert key into driver door key lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds to start remote learn pending
Hold fob to START button
2 Wait ~10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN, then press ENGINE START/STOP
Programming step
3 Repeat pressing ENGINE START/STOP a total of three times; all previously known transmitters will be erased after third time
Programming step
4 DIC should display READY FOR REMOTE #1 when ready to add transmitters
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Place new transmitter in transmitter pocket and press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; press unlock/lock after removal; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Step-by-Step Sequence and DIC Messages
Programming step
1 Initial key turns produce DIC message READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC (with two recognized transmitters)
Wait / timing window
2 Initial key turns produce DIC message REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT (without recognized transmitters)
Hold fob to START button
3 After waiting ~10 minutes without recognized transmitters, DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN
Press / hold a fob button
4 After the third ENGINE START/STOP press without recognized transmitters, DIC shows READY FOR REMOTE #1
Programming step
5 When a transmitter is learned, DIC displays readiness to program the next transmitter
Keys & fobs that fit the 2017 XTS
For the 2017 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2018 Cadillac XTS
Route verified — exact steps vary by trim/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). The sequences below are general route guidance — use them only if your vehicle shows the same prompts and controls. If the prompts don’t match, stop and call us.
Show the programming methods (19 steps)
Vehicle & Equipment Requirements
Programming step
1 Required items: all transmitters to be programmed present
Programming step
2 Vehicle condition: vehicle must be off during programming
Programming step
3 Transmitter locations: recognized transmitters placed in cupholder; new transmitter placed in center console transmitter pocket
Programming step
4 Canada note: programming without a recognized transmitter not available in Canada
Programming with Two Recognized Transmitters
Programming step
1 Precondition: at least two recognized transmitters available with vehicle key
Remove the key
2 Step: remove vehicle key from recognized transmitter
Programming step
3 Step: place recognized transmitters in cupholder
Remove the key
4 Step: remove key lock cylinder cap; insert key in driver door lock; turn key counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds; DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Step: place new transmitter in transmitter pocket; press ENGINE START/STOP; DIC shows ready to program next transmitter; remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Programming without a Recognized Transmitter
Programming step
1 Applicability: use when no currently recognized transmitters are available; procedure takes approximately 30 minutes
Remove the key
2 Initial step: remove key lock cylinder cap; insert key in driver door lock; turn key counterclockwise to unlock five times within 10 seconds; DIC displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Hold fob to START button
3 Timing steps: wait 10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN; press ENGINE START/STOP; DIC shows REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT; repeat this press two additional times
Press / hold a fob button
4 Effect of repeats: after third press all previously known transmitters will no longer work; DIC should display READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Learning new transmitters: place new transmitter in transmitter pocket; press ENGINE START/STOP; DIC shows ready for next; remove transmitter and press unlock or lock; repeat for additional transmitters; hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit
Transmitter Pocket & Physical Actions
Programming step
1 Transmitter pocket location: inside center console storage area between driver and front passenger seats
Programming step
2 Access requirement: center console storage area must be opened to access transmitter pocket
Remove the key
3 Key lock cylinder: remove key lock cylinder cap before inserting key for programming steps
Insert the key
4 Driver door action: insert vehicle key into driver door key lock cylinder and turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds for both procedures
Press / hold a fob button
5 Exit programming: press and hold ENGINE START/STOP button for approximately 12 seconds to exit programming mode after all transmitters programmed
Keys & fobs that fit the 2018 XTS
For the 2018 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
2019 Cadillac XTS
Exact steps source-verified for this year/equipment
Route verified as onboard programming (no dealer needed). Steps below are source-verified for this year/equipment path.
Show the programming methods (13 steps)
Programming with recognized transmitters
Programming step
1 Requirement: vehicle off and all transmitters (recognized + new) present
Remove the key
2 Step: remove vehicle key from recognized transmitter; place recognized transmitters in cupholder
Remove the key
3 Door lock cylinder: remove cap; insert vehicle key; turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds
Press / hold a fob button
4 DIC prompt: displays READY FOR REMOTE #2, 3, 4, ETC.; place new transmitter in center console transmitter pocket; press ENGINE START/STOP
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Completion: DIC shows transmitter learned; press Unlock/Lock on transmitter; repeat for additional transmitters; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit; return key to transmitter; replace cap
Programming without recognized transmitters
Programming step
1 Requirement: vehicle off and all transmitters to be programmed present; feature not available in Canada
Remove the key
2 Initial step: remove key lock cylinder cap; insert key; turn counterclockwise to unlock position five times within 10 seconds; DIC displays REMOTE LEARN PENDING, PLEASE WAIT
Hold fob to START button
3 Sequence: wait 10 minutes until DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO LEARN; press ENGINE START/STOP; repeat this press-and-wait sequence two additional times
Programming step
4 Result after third repetition: all previously known transmitters erased; DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #1
Press LOCK + UNLOCK
5 Learning new transmitters: place transmitter in center console transmitter pocket; press ENGINE START/STOP to learn; press Unlock/Lock to confirm; repeat for additional transmitters; press and hold ENGINE START/STOP ~12 seconds to exit; replace cap
Copyright & site info
Programming step
1 Copyright year listed: 2026
Programming step
2 Site pages referenced: Home, Disclaimer, YouTube, Privacy Policy
Programming step
3 Call-to-action: print instruction option available
Keys & fobs that fit the 2019 XTS
For the 2019 XTS: XTS key replacement & all compatible fobs →
How we validate this guide
Year coverage comes from our consolidated vehicle programming dataset. Route-level programming status is reviewed against internal route sheets and available manufacturer, security-access, and professional tool references. Exact button sequences are marked source-verified only when we have year/equipment-specific support; where a year is labeled “route verified, steps vary,” we confirm the exact fob, trim, and prompts before programming. Reviewed for route and safety by Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith.
| Year | Route status | Exact steps |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2014 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2015 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2016 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2017 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2018 | Route verified | General guidance |
| 2019 | Route verified | Source-verified |
Common questions
Does my Cadillac XTS use a traditional metal ignition key?
No. 2013-2019 Cadillac XTS models use a smart proximity key with push-button start and an emergency mechanical key blade instead of a traditional metal ignition key.
Can I program a new Cadillac XTS key fob myself?
Yes. These XTS models support onboard programming using the driver door lock and the transmitter pocket, following the prompts on the Driver Information Center.
Where do I place the XTS key fob during programming?
During programming, the smart key is placed in the transmitter pocket located in the center console storage area between the front seats.
Can you program a XTS key fob without going to the dealership?
For most years, yes - the route is onboard relearn or an OBD tool, both of which a mobile locksmith handles at your location.
Does this program the remote only, or the transponder key too?
It depends on your key type. Tell us your FCC ID and we will confirm.
What if my year says professional programming required?
Those years need a programmer or security access; we bring the tool to you and program it on site.
How much does it cost?
It depends on year, key type, and whether you have a working key. Call (833) 439-8636 for a firm price before we dispatch.
Need your XTS fob programmed? We come to you, 24/7.