Upgrading to a flip key or replacing a lost remote for your Mitsubishi doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Many Mitsubishi owners are looking for ways to program their car remote key fobs themselves, and it’s often more straightforward than you might think. This guide will walk you through the process, drawing from practical experience to help you get your key fob working smoothly with your Mitsubishi vehicle.
Understanding Your Mitsubishi Key Fob: Transponder and Remote
Before diving into programming, it’s crucial to understand the two main components of your Mitsubishi key fob: the transponder and the remote. The transponder is a small chip embedded within the key. It’s essential for starting your car; without a correctly programmed transponder, your ignition will be disabled. The remote, on the other hand, controls the door locks, trunk release, and sometimes alarm functions.
For many older or aftermarket keys, like the one mentioned previously, the transponder is a separate black chip housed inside the key. Newer flip keys often integrate both components, but the principle remains the same. Programming might involve dealing with both the transponder for ignition and the remote for convenience features.
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Mitsubishi Flip Key Fob
This guide combines the process of transferring a transponder and programming a remote fob, ideal if you’re upgrading to a flip key.
Part 1: Transponder Chip Transfer
If you are converting from an existing key to a flip key, you’ll likely need to transfer your current transponder.
- Open Your Existing Key: Carefully take apart your existing Mitsubishi key. Often, aftermarket keys are held together by seams that can be gently cut open with a razor blade.
- Locate the Transponder Chip: Inside, you should find a small black chip, often housed in a white plastic holder. This is your transponder.
- Remove the Transponder: Gently remove the transponder chip from its holder. Be careful not to damage it.
- Prepare Your Flip Key: Open your new flip key. Most flip keys have a designated cavity, usually near the flip mechanism button, designed to house a transponder chip.
Alt text: Close-up of a small black transponder chip being removed from a white plastic holder, components of a Mitsubishi car key fob.
- Insert the Transponder into the Flip Key: Place the transponder chip into the designated cavity in your flip key. Ensure it fits securely.
- Get the Key Blade Cut: Have the key blade of your flip key cut to match your car’s ignition. It’s advisable to do this before disassembling your original key, just in case.
At this stage, with the transponder transferred and the key blade cut, your flip key should be able to start your Mitsubishi.
Part 2: Programming the Remote Fob
To enable the remote locking/unlocking features, you’ll need to program the fob. This often involves using the OBDII port and a simple procedure.
- Obtain a Used Key Fob: The most cost-effective way to get a remote fob is to purchase a used “cut” key with the fob intact from online marketplaces.
- Dismantle the Used Key: Carefully take apart the used key to extract the fob section from the diamond-shaped component.
- Install the Fob in Your Flip Key: Integrate the extracted fob into your flip key. It should fit into a designed space within the flip key casing.
- Locate Your Mitsubishi’s OBDII Port: This port is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Prepare a Paper Clip: You’ll need a paper clip to briefly short two pins in the OBDII port for programming.
- Follow the Programming Sequence: Consult your Mitsubishi owner’s manual or search online for the specific key fob programming sequence for your Mitsubishi model. Generally, this involves:
- Turning the ignition to the “ON” position.
- Using the paper clip to short specific pins in the OBDII port for a few seconds.
- Pressing buttons on the key fob to program it.
- Turning the ignition “OFF” to finalize the programming.
Alt text: Diagram showing the typical location of the OBDII port under the dashboard in a Mitsubishi car, used for key fob programming.
Important Note: Programming sequences can vary significantly between Mitsubishi models and years. Always verify the correct procedure for your specific vehicle to avoid issues.
Conclusion
Programming a Mitsubishi car remote key fob, especially when upgrading to a flip key, is achievable for DIY enthusiasts. By carefully transferring the transponder and programming the remote fob, you can enhance your key’s functionality without needing to visit a dealership. Remember to prioritize accuracy, double-check procedures for your specific Mitsubishi model, and enjoy the convenience of your upgraded key fob.
