Radio Programming and Setup

Note:

  • DO NOT program a control module unless directed to by a service procedure or a service bulletin. If the ECU is not properly configured with the correct calibration software, the ECU will not control all of the vehicle features properly.
  • Ensure the programming tool is equipped with the latest software and is securely connected to the data link connector. If there is an interruption during programming, programming failure or ECU damage may occur.
  • Stable battery voltage is critical during programming. Any fluctuation, spiking, over voltage or loss of voltage will interrupt programming. Install the EL-49642 SPS programming support tool to maintain system voltage. If not available, connect a fully charged 12 V jumper or booster pack disconnected from the AC voltage supply.
  • Turn OFF or disable systems that may put a load on the vehicles battery such as; interior lights, exterior lights (including daytime running lights), HVAC, radio, etc.
  • During the programming procedure, follow the SPS prompts for the correct ignition switch position.
  • Clear DTCs after programming is complete. Clearing powertrain DTCs will set the Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) system status indicators to NO.

Diagnostic Aids

  • If programming of the control module is being performed at the direction of a bulletin or PI, follow the instructions provided in that document.
  • During audio system programming you may be required to select multiple calibrations dependent upon vehicle equipment. Have the vehicle build/RPO information available during the following procedure to ensure the correct calibrations are selected.
  • Dependant upon vehicle equipment, the current software level of the module, or the release of updates, USB programming may not be required when replacing/reprogramming the control module. If USB files for the application are not available via SPS, or have not been received from General Motors in another manner of distribution, the USB update process will not need to be performed.
  • The length of time for the USB programming to complete will vary depending on the number and size of the files in the update.
  • All data will be erased from the USB device BEFORE the calibration is downloaded onto the device. To ensure important information is NOT erased, always verify that NO information is stored on the device BEFORE beginning the calibration download. If required, transfer important files to another storage device BEFORE beginning the calibration download.
  • The XM satellite radio (if equipped) is integrated into the radio. If XM was activated in the previous radio, the replacement radio will require additional activation steps after programming to transfer customer subscription information.

Reference Information

Special Tools
  • EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool
  • USB 2.0 flash drive with a minimum capacity of 4 GB.

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Replace and Program Control Module

To program a replacement control module, perform the following procedure:

  1. Install the EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool.
  2. Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select A11 Radio – Programming, and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. When programming is complete, access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. Connect a USB drive to the computer.

    6. Note: If using a pre-configured USB drive supplied by General Motors, proceed to step 8.

  6. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select A11 Radio – USB File Transfer, and follow the on-screen instructions.

    7. Note:

    • If there are no files available for USB transfer via SPS, proceed to step 14.
    • All existing files on the USB drive will be erased when the new files are copied.

  7. Upon completion of the file transfer, remove the USB drive from the computer.
  8. Vehicle in Service Mode, radio ON.
  9. Connect the USB drive to the USB port in the vehicle.
  10. Using the radio controls, select the following: Config>Radio Settings>Software Versions Menu>Update Radio Software. Follow the infotainment display on-screen instructions and select Update when prompted. Programming will take several minutes.
  11. When programming is complete, remove the USB device from the vehicle USB port.
  12. Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  13. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select A11 Radio – Programming, and follow the on-screen instructions.
  14. At the end of programming, choose the “Clear DTCs” function on the SPS screen.

Reprogram Control Module

To reprogram an existing control module, perform the following procedure:

  1. Install the EL-49642 SPS Programming Support Tool.
  2. Connect a USB drive to the computer.

    3. Note: If using a pre-configured USB drive supplied by General Motors, proceed to step 6.

  3. Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select A11 Radio – USB File Transfer, and follow the on-screen instructions.

    5. Note:

    • If there are no files available for USB transfer via SPS, proceed to step 11.
    • All existing files on the USB drive will be erased when the new files are copied.

  5. Upon completion of the file transfer, remove the USB drive from the computer.
  6. Vehicle in Service Mode, radio ON.
  7. Connect the USB drive to the USB port in the vehicle.
  8. Using the radio controls, select the following: Config>Radio Settings>Software Versions Menu>Update Radio Software. Follow the infotainment display on-screen instructions and select Update when prompted. Programming will take several minutes.
  9. When programming is complete, remove the USB device from the vehicle USB port.
  10. Access the Service Programming System (SPS) and follow the on-screen instructions.
  11. On the SPS Supported Controllers screen, select A11 Radio – Programming, and follow the on-screen instructions.
  12. At the end of programming, choose the “Clear DTCs” function on the SPS screen.

XM Activation (If Equipped)

Important: After replacement of an XM receiver, call XM radio to deactivate the receiver that has been removed from the vehicle.

  1. Turn the radio ON, tune to the XM channel 0, and record the radio ID. The radio ID will be needed for activation of the receiver.
  2. From the USA, Call XM radio at 1–800–556–3600 to activate the receiver. From Canada, call 1–877–438–9677.
  3. Park the vehicle outside in an area with an unobstructed view of the southern sky.
  4. Leave the vehicle outside with the ignition switch in the ACC position and the radio on for 30 minutes to activate XM service.
  5. Once activated, the radio will receive the remaining XM channels.

Unsuccessful Programming Recovery

In the event of an interrupted or unsuccessful programming event, perform the following steps:

  1. Vehicle in Service Mode. Ensure the control module, DLC and programming tool connections are secure and the SPS software is up to date.
  2. Verify the control module can be reprogrammed.
    • If the control module cannot be reprogrammed
    1. Vehicle OFF for one minute, ignition ON.
    2. Verify the control module can be reprogrammed.
      • If the control module cannot be reprogrammed, replace the control module.
      • If the control module can be reprogrammed.
    3. All OK.
    • If the control module can be reprogrammed
  3. All OK.