How to Program a 2004 Chrysler 300M Car Remote: Step-by-Step Guide

Losing or needing to replace your car remote can be a hassle, but programming a new remote for your 2004 Chrysler 300M doesn’t have to be. Whether you’ve purchased a new key fob online or from a dealership, this guide will walk you through the process of programming it yourself. While some methods might be a bit tricky, we’ll cover the most common and effective techniques to get your new remote working with your Chrysler 300M.

Understanding Your Chrysler 300M Remote Programming Options

For the 2004 Chrysler 300M, there are a couple of methods you can use to program a new remote. The availability of each method depends largely on whether your vehicle is equipped with the standard Overhead Trip Information System (OTIS) or the more advanced Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).

Method 1: Manual Programming with OTIS (Overhead Trip Information System)

If your 2004 Chrysler 300M has the OTIS system, you’ll need to use a manual programming procedure. This method generally requires you to have at least one working remote already. Here are two variations of the manual programming procedure that are commonly suggested.

Procedure 1

1. Turn the Ignition ON: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position. Do not start the engine.
2. Press and Hold Unlock: On your functioning remote, press and hold the “Unlock” button for ten seconds.
3. Press Panic Button: While still holding the “Unlock” button, press the “Panic” button for one second. Release both buttons simultaneously. The vehicle should chime, indicating it has entered programming mode.
4. Program First Remote: Press any button on the new remote you want to program. The vehicle should chime again, confirming the remote has been programmed.
5. Program Additional Remotes (Optional): If you have another remote to program, press any button on that remote. The vehicle will chime again. You can repeat this for up to four remotes.
6. Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition OFF to exit the programming mode.

Procedure 2

This is another variation that is sometimes suggested for manual programming.

1. Ignition ON: Insert the key into the ignition and turn to the “ON” position (don’t start the car).
2. Hold Unlock: Press and hold the “Unlock” button on a working remote for 10 seconds.
3. Panic Press: While holding “Unlock”, press the “Panic” button for one second. Release both buttons. The vehicle should chime to signal programming mode.
4. Lock and Unlock Sequence (New Remote): On the new remote, press and release the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons together. The vehicle should chime. Then, press and release the “Unlock” button alone. The vehicle should chime again, indicating programming.
5. Program Second Remote (Optional): For another new remote, repeat step 4.
6. Turn Off Ignition: Turn the ignition OFF to exit programming.

It’s important to note that user experiences with these manual methods on the 2004 Chrysler 300M can vary. Some users have found them to be unreliable or inconsistent. If these methods don’t work for you, especially if you don’t receive the chime indicating programming mode, you might need to consider Method 2 or seek professional help.

Method 2: Programming with EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center)

If your 2004 Chrysler 300M is equipped with the EVIC, the programming process becomes significantly easier and more reliable. The EVIC is a more advanced information display typically located in the overhead console.

Here are the steps to program your remote using the EVIC:

1. Ignition ON: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position (do not start the car).

2. Access EVIC Menu: Locate the “MENU” button, usually on the overhead console where the EVIC is located. Press the “MENU” button.

3. Navigate to “Train Remote”: Use the “STEP” or “Scroll” button to cycle through the EVIC menu options until you see “Train Remote” displayed.

4. Select “YES” to Train: When “Train Remote” is displayed, press the “STEP” button to select “YES”. Then, press the “MENU” button again to confirm your selection. The EVIC will then display “PRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK THEN PRESS UNLOCK” followed by a chime to indicate the training sequence can begin. You now have approximately 30 seconds to program your remotes.

   Image of EVIC display in a Chrysler vehicle, showing menu options

5. Program Remote(s): On the new remote, press and release the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons together, then press and release the “Unlock” button alone. After each successful remote programming, a chime will sound. You can program up to four remotes in this sequence.

6. Training Complete: Once you have programmed all your remotes, or if you don’t need to program more, press the “MENU” button again. The EVIC will display “TRAIN DONE, x TRAINED” (where ‘x’ is the number of remotes programmed). If no remotes are programmed within 30 seconds, the EVIC will display “TRAIN TIMEOUT”.

Using the EVIC method is generally considered to be more straightforward and user-friendly compared to the manual OTIS procedures. If you are having trouble with the manual methods, or if your vehicle has EVIC, this is the recommended approach.

Troubleshooting and Important Considerations

• Working Remote Requirement (OTIS Manual Methods): The manual programming methods (Procedure 1 & 2) often require you to have at least one working remote to begin the process. If you don’t have a working remote, these methods will likely not work, and you may need to visit a dealership or automotive locksmith.
• EVIC is Easier: As highlighted in user forums, the EVIC method is significantly easier and more reliable. If your 2004 Chrysler 300M is equipped with EVIC, this is the preferred method.
• All Remotes Re-registered: Be aware that when you program a new remote, all previously programmed remotes are erased. You will need to re-register all the remotes you want to use with your vehicle during the programming sequence.
• Correct Key Fob Part Number: Ensure that the new remote you purchased is compatible with your 2004 Chrysler 300M. Check the part number of your original remote (if you have one) and verify that the new remote is a compatible replacement.
• Battery Type: Double-check the battery type required for your new remote and ensure it is correctly installed. Incompatible batteries or low battery voltage can prevent successful programming.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to program your remote using either of these methods, or if you don’t have a working remote to begin with, it’s best to consult with a Chrysler dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to program remotes, even without an existing working remote.

Conclusion

Programming a new remote for your 2004 Chrysler 300M can often be done at home, saving you time and money compared to dealership programming fees. By following the appropriate steps based on your vehicle’s system (OTIS or EVIC), you can likely get your new remote working quickly. Remember to double-check compatibility and if you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Having a functioning car remote adds convenience and security to your vehicle ownership experience.

Alt text: Close-up of a Chrysler 300M car remote key fob, illustrating the typical design and button layout for remote programming identification.