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Chevrolet Silverado: Why Does My Alarm Keep Going Off?

Opening the doors to your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 shouldn't signal your alarm; read more to find out what might be causing your alarm to go off.

By Charlie Gaston - June 3, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

The first thing you should know about your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is that opening your doors with a key or using the manual door lock should not cause the alarm in your truck to go off. If your alarm does go off, there are a number of issues that could be the likely culprit. We'll walk you through the common triggers, while offering cutting-edge information on how to resolve the problem and ensure it doesn't happen again in the future.

Materials Needed

  • Vehicle key
  • Microfiber cloth

Step 1 – Check that you are unlocking your doors properly

You might be unwittingly triggering your alarm.

According to the owner's manual for the Silverado 1500, "Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote keyless entry transmitter."

  • If you unlock your door(s) any other way, you will automatically set off the alarm.
  • To avoid activating the theft-deterrent system in your truck, always lock your vehicle with the door key after closing your doors.

  • If you use one of the power door lock switches in your vehicle with the door open, you will automatically trigger the alarm. The same is true when using your remote keyless entry transmitter.

Figure 1. Lock and unlock your truck properly to avoid theft of your vehicle.

Pro Tip

You must unlock your door properly to avoid triggering the alarm.

Step 2 – Check the position of your gear shifter

It might not be fully in the correct position.

Check your gear shifter to ensure it is fully in the "P" or park position.

  • When your gear shifter is fully in park, you will hear a subtle clicking noise; however, this noise will only sound once.
  • Pull your gear shifter into the correct position.
  • Exit your vehicle locking the door in the correct manner, as described above.
  • Re-enter your vehicle to ensure the alarm does not sound.

Pro Tip

This is a simple repair that requires just five minutes and is worth checking out.

Step 3 – Check the internal components of your key fob

They might be faulty.

If your truck is still under warranty, it's recommended that you visit your local Chevrolet dealership for this repair. Otherwise, you would need to open your key fob using only your hands.

  • Check the internal components for signs of damage, dust and debris, as well as sticking parts.
  • All points should be making proper contact.
  • Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any contaminants and/or moisture.
  • Be sure you are using your key fob correctly each time you enter or exit your truck to avoid triggering the alarm in the future.
Figure 2. Troubleshoot your key remote.

Pro Tip

Handle your key remote with care and avoid working in areas where there is water present. Do not clean your key fob using a cleanser or water.

Step 4 – Have the by-pass module re-programmed

It might be faulty.

It's recommended that you have your local Chevrolet dealership reset your module.

  • It should only take an hour or so for the dealer to reset your module.
  • Set up a service appointment for faster service.

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