Modern car ownership often comes with the convenience of keyless entry and remote functionalities. For Mitsubishi owners, programming a car remote can seem daunting, but it’s often a task you can undertake yourself. This guide will walk you through the process, enhancing your understanding and potentially saving you a trip to the dealership.
Understanding Your Mitsubishi Remote System
Mitsubishi vehicles, like many modern cars, utilize a two-part security and convenience system in their keys: the transponder chip and the key fob.
- Transponder Chip: This is a small microchip embedded within the key. It communicates with your car’s immobilizer system. When you insert the key into the ignition, the transponder sends a unique signal that the car’s computer recognizes, allowing the engine to start. Without a correctly programmed transponder, your car won’t start, even if the key physically turns in the ignition.
- Key Fob: This is the remote control part of your key, equipped with buttons to lock/unlock doors, and sometimes open the trunk or activate a panic alarm. The key fob communicates wirelessly with your car’s Body Control Module (BCM) to perform these functions.
An example of a Mitsubishi car key with an integrated remote fob.
Reprogramming Your Mitsubishi Key Fob for Remote Functions
If your key fob stops working, or you’ve replaced it, you may need to reprogram it to regain remote functionalities. Here’s a general approach to reprogramming your Mitsubishi key fob. Note that the exact procedure can vary slightly depending on your specific Mitsubishi model and year. Always consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate instructions.
While specific button sequences can sometimes work, a common method involves using the OBDII port in your Mitsubishi. This port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
General OBDII Port Programming Steps (Consult your manual for model-specific instructions):
- Locate the OBDII Port: Find the OBDII port in your Mitsubishi.
- Prepare Your Key and Fob: Have your new or existing key with the fob ready. Ensure you have all doors closed and unlocked.
- Insert and Turn the Key: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
- OBDII Port Connection (Potentially Required): Some models might require a specific sequence involving momentarily bridging pins in the OBDII port with a paper clip or specialized tool. Again, your owner’s manual is crucial here.
- Listen for Confirmation: You may hear a series of beeps or see a light flashing on the dashboard to indicate the car is in programming mode.
- Press Buttons on the Fob: Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons simultaneously on your key fob for a few seconds.
- Confirmation Beeps/Lights: Listen for beeps or watch for lights that confirm the fob has been successfully programmed. You might need to repeat button presses for each fob you are programming.
- Test the Fob: Remove the key from the ignition and test all the buttons on your newly programmed fob to ensure they are working correctly (lock, unlock, trunk, panic).
A typical OBDII port location under the dashboard of a vehicle.
Important Considerations:
- Owner’s Manual is Key: Always refer to your Mitsubishi owner’s manual for the precise programming steps for your vehicle. The process can differ between models like Lancer, Outlander, Mirage, etc.
- Aftermarket vs. OEM Fobs: Programming aftermarket fobs can sometimes be more challenging and may not always be successful using DIY methods. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) fobs designed for your car model are generally easier to program.
- Professional Programming: If you encounter difficulties or are unsure about any step, seeking professional help from a locksmith or Mitsubishi dealership is recommended. They have specialized tools and knowledge to program your remote efficiently.
Transferring Your Transponder Chip to a Flip Key (Advanced DIY)
For those looking to upgrade to a flip key for convenience, it’s possible to transfer the transponder chip from your existing key. This is a more advanced DIY task that requires careful handling.
Disclaimer: Proceed with caution. Mishandling the transponder chip can render your key useless, and you might need to replace it entirely. If you are not comfortable with delicate electronic components, it’s best to consult a professional.
General Steps for Transponder Chip Transfer (Based on user experience):
- Obtain a Flip Key: Purchase a compatible flip key blank designed for your Mitsubishi. Ensure it has a cavity to house the transponder chip.
- Open Your Original Key: Carefully open your existing Mitsubishi key. In some aftermarket keys, you can find a seam to split the key open using a razor blade or similar tool.
- Locate the Transponder Chip: Inside the key, you’ll find a small black chip, often housed in a white plastic holder. This is the transponder chip.
- Carefully Remove the Chip: Gently remove the transponder chip from its holder. Be extremely careful not to damage it.
- Insert Chip into Flip Key: Open your flip key and locate the designated cavity for the transponder chip. Insert the chip securely into this cavity.
- Assemble Flip Key: Close and assemble the flip key casing.
- Get the Key Blade Cut: Take the flip key to a locksmith to have the key blade cut to match your car’s ignition.
A transponder chip typically found inside a car key.
Integrating the Key Fob (If Desired):
To also integrate the remote functions into your flip key, you would need to acquire a used, uncut Mitsubishi key with a working fob. You would then:
- Obtain a Used Key with Fob: Find a used Mitsubishi key (ensure it’s the same type as your car uses) that includes the intact key fob electronics.
- Dismantle the Used Key: Carefully open the used key and remove the key fob circuit board.
- Install Fob into Flip Key: If your flip key is designed to accommodate a fob circuit board, install the circuit board from the used key into the flip key.
- Program the Fob (as described earlier): Follow the key fob programming steps mentioned earlier (OBDII method or manual sequence from your manual) to program the remote functions of the transferred fob to your car.
Conclusion
Programming a Mitsubishi car remote, whether it’s just the key fob or integrating it into a flip key with a transferred transponder chip, can be achieved with careful steps and the right information. Always prioritize consulting your Mitsubishi owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and consider professional help if you’re unsure at any point. By understanding the system and following the guidelines, you can regain control of your remote functions or even upgrade your key style.
