Here're some questions for you GMC/Chevy guys with the new-body-style truck.

My 2008 GMC Sierra SLE Crew Cab Z71 4x4 came with an option called either remote vehichle starter prep package or remote start enabled. I have a remote-lock clicker. I was told all I needed to do was buy a $100 remote-start clicker to take advantage of the prep/enabled option and gain the remote-start feature. Has anybody done this, or know someone who has?

On a separate note, I read that I could upgrade to the full-feature Driver Information Center (DIC) options by simply buying part number 19159438 ($70-$100) SLT dash DIC switch panel, and replacing my plain SLE dash panel that does not have DIC switches. The DIC wire harness is supposedly present and unused behind my SLE dash and could be plugged into the new dash part to gain full instead of partial DIC function. Has anyone done this or know someone who has?

This may all be fact or fiction, so I thought I'd bounce it off you guys. -ray

Dont know about the $100.00 clicker but my vehicle came with this option. That remote start has been very handy and great in either very hot or very cold weather.

yeah you can buy the remote/but what they did not tell you was they have to programm it to make it work....as far asthe other upgrade im not sure about it,but i will find out and let you know ok.

Thanks Stan - I obviously misjudged the value of GMC's remote-start prep option. I was so clueless, at first, I thought $100 to replace my "clicker" was a little high.

I opened the fuse panel on the side of the dash and looked past it at the back of the dash. I didn't see an obvious unused connector near the DIC switch panel area.

I gave up certain features like DIC, remote start, or power seat to just locate an available white 5.3L crew cab 4x4 Sierra 1500 at the end of September. They may be impractical to add, I understand features are usually best value when new-purchased not added.

Like my truck, glad I got it. Advise welcome guys. -ray

If you were to upgrade to the DIC, then you could simply buy the remote start key fob and program the new fob by using the DIC. I have a 2007 with remote start and a DIC and you can program fobs, as well as a bunch of other programs, such as your drivers seat moving to the full back position when the key is turned off, whether your horn sounds when the doors are locked remotely, etc.