I have an '03 SS that has been having an issue with my remote fob having any range. I have replaced and reprogrammed the fobs. The only time I can get the fob to work is if I hold it up to the dashboard where the receiver is located.

The replacement part doesn't seem to difficult to get; however, it looks like a lot of the dash needs to be removed to access the part. It took me 2 years to locate the front bezel of the dash after a dealership destroyed it trying to fix an issue with the crankshaft position sensor (long and horrid story).

So, I have now started to look at adding an aftermarket keyless remote system. It seem that I can utilize something like the Excalibur OLMDBALL Omega Link Integrated Bypass Module and an aftermarket remote starter/alarm to access remote functions directly through the data bus without having to hardwire everything to each individual component.

Has anyone added an after market system to their MC? Any advice?

 

To replace the factory module, I just checked the shop manual, not much involved. There is a trim piece up at the windshield, that piece pops off I would use nylon pry tools to help pop it up, once you have part of it popped, you should be able to do the rest by hand). After that the shop book says to disengage the four retainers (looks like a squeeze and pull up), disconnect the wiring connector and it is out. Maybe a 10-15 minute removal?

Years ago, I put an aftermarket remote start with keyless entry into an 05 Impala (pretty much the same car). I recall having to be a contortionist working under the dash, soldering wires in tight spaces. Now, as for the Passlock bypass module, if I had it to do over again, I would skip that and basically disable the Passlock system. Here is a video from one of my Grand Am friends. What he shows on a Grand Am would work equally on a Monte (same factory security system). You basically set the car up to believe the security is always good, thus disabling passlock.

 

I did the 2.2k resistor trick and haven't had a security light or lockout as that was an issue I have also been dealing with.

It looks like the newer systems only use a handful of connections to access power and the GM bus. I wouldn't mind replacing the factory module, so I'll have to get my hands on a shop manual. My biggest concern is the any of the plastic trim. Living in Florida, the dash has taken a beating by the sun.

 

I understand the concern with the trim. trim that covers around the radio, instrument cluster and HVAC controls on my blue Monte is a bit brittle in spots these days. The trim that hides the keyless entry receiver is a bit more flexible than the dash trim. On a positive, if that piece did get damaged, I bet you can easily get a replacement one from a salvage yard.