B3060 on 2015-2022 GMC Sierra 1500: Unprogrammed Key, No-Start Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2022 Gmc SIERRA 1500

The GM Pass-Key III+ (PK3+) immobilizer system used in these trucks is generally reliable but can be sensitive to intermittent communication issues. As noted in multiple versions of GM Technical Service Bulletin PIC5650, problems are not always a hard failure of a component. Often, the issue can be caused by radio frequency (RF) interference from other fobs, access cards, or even aftermarket electronics like LED lights or phone chargers on the owner's keychain or inside the vehicle. This interference, operating in the 125 kHz range, can jam the signal between the key and the truck's transponder reader, making it crucial to check for external factors before replacing parts. A critical issue on 2015-2017 models is a poor Body Control Module (BCM) ground at location G218, which can cause widespread electrical issues, including false security codes.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Generation note: This year range covers the third generation (K2XX, 2014-2019) and the fourth generation (T1XX, 2019-2022) of the GMC Sierra 1500. The immobilizer system design and the potential for this code are common to both generations. However, a major change occurred mid-2022 with the introduction of the 'Global B' electrical architecture on refreshed T1XX trucks, which significantly alters diagnostic and programming procedures. The K2XX platform (2015-2018) is particularly known for issues related to the G218 BCM ground.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Engine does not crank (no-crank, no-start)
• Engine starts but shuts off within a few seconds (start-and-stall)
• Security indicator light is solid or flashing on the instrument cluster.
• "No Fob Detected" or similar message on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
• Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) may also be inoperative or have poor range.

Most Likely Causes

1. Using an Unprogrammed or Incorrect Key 🔴 High Probability This is the direct trigger for the code, often happening after a key is replaced, a battery in the key fob dies, or a cheap, improperly cloned copy is made.
   How to confirm: Try using a known-good spare key. If the spare key works perfectly, the other key is the problem. A scan tool can also show if the key's transponder value is being read as invalid.
   Typical fix: The problematic key needs to be properly programmed to the vehicle using a GM-specific key relearn procedure. If the key is defective, it must be replaced.
   Est. part cost: $75-$200 for a new key blank
2. Radio Frequency (RF) Interference 🟡 Medium Probability As documented in GM TSBs PIC5650M and its predecessors, other RFID-enabled devices (like office key cards, gas station speed-pass fobs, or even other vehicle fobs) on the same keychain can disrupt the 125 kHz signal between the ignition key and the truck's transponder reader. The TSB also warns against aftermarket LED lights, phone chargers, and even decorative trim rings around the ignition cylinder.
   How to confirm: Remove all other keys, fobs, and cards from the ignition key ring. Unplug any aftermarket chargers or devices. Attempt to start the vehicle with the key isolated. If it starts consistently, interference was the cause.
   Typical fix: Keep other RFID-enabled devices separate from the ignition key when starting the vehicle. Remove non-essential aftermarket electronics.
   Est. part cost: $0
3. Damaged Ignition Key Transponder 🟡 Medium Probability The small glass transponder chip inside the key head can be damaged if the key is dropped or subjected to impact, rendering it unable to communicate. A dead battery in the fob can also sometimes cause this issue.
   How to confirm: If a spare key works and the primary key does not (even with no RF interference), the transponder chip in the primary key is likely damaged. This is a diagnosis by elimination. Replacing the battery in the key fob is a simple first step.
   Typical fix: Replace the key and have the new one professionally programmed.
   Est. part cost: $75-$200 for a new key blank
4. Faulty Ignition Lock Cylinder / Transponder Reader Coil ⚪ Low Probability The reader coil, also called an exciter coil, surrounds the ignition lock cylinder and energizes the key's transponder. Though not a frequent failure, a break in its internal wiring will prevent it from reading any key, even known-good ones. Wear and tear can also cause the cylinder itself to fail, making it hard to turn the key.
   How to confirm: If multiple known-good keys fail to start the vehicle, and the 30-minute relearn procedure fails, the problem is likely in the vehicle itself. A technician can test for a signal from the reader coil at the BCM connector pins.
   Typical fix: The ignition lock cylinder, which typically includes the transponder reader coil, needs to be replaced. This requires removing the steering column covers.
   Est. part cost: $100-$250

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failing Body Control Module (BCM): This is rare, but if all keys and the reader coil/wiring have been ruled out, the module responsible for storing the key data may have failed. This is an expensive last resort. BCM failure can be precipitated by a poor ground connection at G218 on K2XX models.
• Wiring Harness Damage or Corrosion: Damage to the wiring between the ignition lock cylinder and the BCM/TDM can cause an intermittent or total loss of communication. This can be caused by previous dash work, chafing over time, or corrosion at a connector, which can take multiple modules offline and prevent key programming.
• Poor BCM Ground Connection (G218): On 2015-2018 K2XX models, a poor ground at location G218 under the driver's side dash is a known issue documented in TSB PIT5405C. 🎬 Watch this guide to locate and fix the G218 ground. It can cause a wide array of intermittent electrical problems, including no-start conditions and false security codes, because the BCM is not operating with a stable ground reference.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for all DTCs in the BCM and TDM to see if other codes like B3055 or B3935 are present.
2. Remove all other fobs, keys, and RFID cards from the keychain. Unplug any aftermarket phone chargers or accessories. Try to start the vehicle again.
3. If available, try starting the vehicle with a known-good spare key. If it starts, the first key is the issue.
4. Inspect the problematic key for any physical damage. Try replacing the internal battery.
5. If no spare key is available or if both keys fail, attempt the 30-Minute Vehicle Key Relearn procedure. This involves turning the key to 'ON' for 10 minutes, then 'OFF' for 5-10 seconds, and repeating this cycle three times. The security light should turn off after each 10-minute interval. The vehicle learns the key after the third cycle.
🎬 Watch a technician demonstrate the 30-minute security relearn procedure.
6. For K2XX models (2015-2018), inspect the BCM ground G218. It is located under the driver's side dash. Ensure the nut is tight and that the dash insulator mat is not trapped between the ground eyelet and the body stud.
7. If the relearn fails, use a scan tool like GM GDS2 to monitor the immobilizer data (TDM/BCM Valid Key parameter) to see if the key value is being read at all.
8. Inspect the wiring and connector at the ignition lock cylinder and the BCM for damage or loose connections. On T1XX models, the immobilizer antenna signal is at Pin 7 of the BCM X4 connector.
9. If all else fails, test the transponder reader coil and diagnose the Body Control Module, which typically requires a professional technician.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Transponder Ignition Key (OEM #13580082 (Example for 2018 Sierra)) — This is the most common failure point, either due to a damaged internal chip or because it's an unprogrammed replacement.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco
  OEM price range: $100-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$100
• Ignition Lock Cylinder with Transponder Reader — If multiple known-good keys don't work, the reader coil that surrounds the lock cylinder is the next most likely part to have failed.
  Trusted brands: ACDelco, Standard Motor Products, Dorman
  OEM price range: $150-$250
  Aftermarket price range: $80-$150

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• B3055 — This code means 'No Transponder Identification Code Received,' indicating the system received no signal at all, often seen alongside B3060 during intermittent communication faults caused by RF interference or a faulty reader coil.
• B3935 — This code for 'Transponder Key Authentication Error' can also be set with B3060, pointing to a failure in the security handshake process between the key and the vehicle.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• PIC5650M: Addresses an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on, potentially setting codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. It provides an extensive list of potential RFI sources.
• PIC5650K / PIC5650C: Earlier versions of the same TSB, showing this has been a persistent issue. They advise technicians to question the customer about aftermarket devices before replacing any parts.
• PIE0232: An earlier bulletin for 2013 models with the same no-start issue and B3060 code, also advising to check for RF interference, indicating the system sensitivity predates the K2XX platform.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• A known issue, documented in TSB #PIC5650M, involves intermittent no-crank or start-stall conditions with the security light on, which can set codes B3060, B3055, and B3935. The bulletin advises checking for RF interference from devices on the keychain as a primary diagnostic step.
• TSB #PIT5405C addresses a range of electrical issues on 2015-2017 models, including no-starts, caused by a poor BCM ground at location G218 under the driver's dash. The fix involves cutting away trapped insulation and properly tightening the ground nut.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Immobilizer Exciter Coil Resistance — expected: Not specified in common service literature. Diagnosis typically relies on signal presence/absence via scan tool data rather than a resistance check.. Failure: If multiple known-good keys fail to be read, and wiring is intact, the coil is suspect.

Hidden / Shadow Codes Worth Checking

• B3060 00: The '00' is a symptom byte indicating 'No Sub Type Information'. This means the base DTC description ('Unprogrammed Transponder Identification Code Received') provides the complete description of the failure, and no more specific fault type was identified by the module. (see via A professional scan tool that can read manufacturer-specific codes and data, such as the GM GDS2 (Global Diagnostic System 2).)

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• GM GDS2 / Techline Connect: Immobilizer Learn — Used to program new or existing keys to the vehicle's immobilizer module after a key replacement or if the system loses memory.
• GM GDS2: Module Diagnostics > BCM > Data Display — To monitor live data parameters such as 'BCM Key Part Number' or 'TDM Valid Key' to see if the module is receiving any signal from the key's transponder.
• GM GDS2 / SPS2: BCM Programming and Setup — After replacing the Body Control Module. This is a multi-step process that involves flashing the correct software (SPS2) and then running setup functions in GDS2, such as the VTD (Vehicle Theft Deterrent) relearn and configuring the new module to work with other systems like the airbags (SDM).

Wiring & Ground Locations

• G218 — On K2XX models (2015-2018), located under the driver's side of the dashboard, near the A-pillar and speaker.. This is the primary ground for the Body Control Module (BCM). A TSB (PIT5405C) notes that this ground can be loose or have dash insulation trapped under it from the factory, causing an unstable ground for the BCM. This can lead to numerous erratic electrical issues, including false theft deterrent codes and no-start conditions.
• K9 BCM Connector X4, Pin 7 — On T1XX models (2019-2022), this is one of the multi-pin connectors on the Body Control Module, which is typically located behind the lower driver's side dash panel.. This specific pin is for the 'Immobilizer Antenna Signal [+]'. A technician can use this pin to test for signal continuity from the transponder reader coil back to the BCM, helping to isolate a fault to the wiring or the coil itself.
• Engine Block to Chassis Ground — A large braided strap typically located on the driver's side, connecting the rear of the engine block to the vehicle's firewall or frame.. While not specific to the immobilizer circuit, a weak or broken main ground can cause low voltage and electrical noise throughout the vehicle, leading to unpredictable behavior from sensitive modules like the BCM and ECM.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'Rainman Ray's Repairs' (Chevrolet Silverado (similar platform)) — No crank, 'Service Theft Deterrent System' message on the dash.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Attempting to relearn keys failed because multiple control modules were offline and not communicating.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician found a large, green, corroded main electrical connector under the truck on the driver's side frame rail. This corrosion was interrupting communication between multiple modules, including those needed for the security system. Cleaning the corroded pins in the connector restored communication, which then allowed the key relearn procedure to be completed successfully, fixing the no-start condition.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2015-2018 (K2XX Platform): These models are specifically cited in TSBs regarding the faulty G218 BCM ground point causing widespread electrical issues. They use the established Pass-Key III+ system with diagnostics performed via GDS2.
• 2019-2022 (T1XX Platform): The 2019 model year marked the switch to the new T1XX platform. While the immobilizer function is similar, wiring and module locations may differ. The BCM is the central component for the immobilizer.
• 2022.5-2022 (T1XX Refresh with Global B): The mid-year refresh introduced GM's new Global B electrical architecture. Module replacement and programming are significantly different and more complex. Any BCM or key programming requires an online session with GM's Techline Connect software, and many aftermarket tools have limited or no capability. This is a critical distinction for diagnosis and repair.