Programming remote for 05 - not SV6

[mjgrantham]

I see instructions on this forum for programming a keyless entry remote up to 2004, and for 2005 SV6, but I have a last-of-the-old-style 2005 which did not come with a remote from the previous owner so I'm trying to buy a new one online. I would assume programming would be the same as previous years. I got the factory part number (10335585) from a dealership, and online sellers say this remote requires programming by a dealership or locksmith. Shouldn't I be able to program it myself?

Also, has anyone purchased aftermarket remotes on eBay? They are so cheap, but I wonder about quality. Any recommended sellers?

Thanks,
Mike

[Stealthee]

I think the ones saying 05 SV6 are incorrect. You cannot program this yourself. It needs a Tech2 tool to program it. My 07 Grand Prix is the same way.

[mjgrantham]

Thanks stealthee. So are you saying that mine should be the same as the 2004 and earlier and should be self-programmable?

[Stealthee]

No, I am saying the cutoff for the Montana is 04, and 05+ all need Tech2 to program.

[mjgrantham]

I want to believe you but it doesn't seem to make sense that the 01-05 Venture and 01-05 Silhouette are self-programmable, as well as the 01-04 Montana, but they changed only the 05 Montanas - pre SV6 - to require a Tech2. Why not the last of Ventures & Silhouettes? All three platforms are virtually identical up until the design overhaul, after which they are, again, pretty much alike. I can see the change coinciding with the new designs, which have updated fobs as well, but not for the phasing out of just one model. But if I have to I'll pay a dealer or locksmith to do it. Or get the remote without panic button, that one is listed as self-programmable.

[mjgrantham]

Ordered my remotes and programmed them myself easily in 5 minutes. No Tech II needed; that's for 05 SV6 and later.