Are you looking to upgrade your standard Mitsubishi car key to a more modern flip key? Many Mitsubishi owners, especially those with older models, find themselves wanting the convenience and style of a flip key. The good news is, it’s possible to convert your existing Mitsubishi key to a flip key, and often you can do it yourself with a bit of know-how. This guide will walk you through the process, focusing on how to program your Mitsubishi car key when converting to a flip key style.
Understanding Your Mitsubishi Key Components
Before we begin, let’s understand the essential parts of your Mitsubishi car key. There are typically two main components you need to consider for this conversion:
- The Transponder Chip: This is a small chip embedded in your key that communicates with your car’s immobilizer system. It’s crucial for starting your vehicle.
- The Key Fob (Remote): This part controls your car’s remote locking, unlocking, and sometimes trunk release functions.
When converting to a flip key, you’ll be transferring these components from your old key to a new flip key housing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mitsubishi Flip Key Conversion
Here’s how to convert your Mitsubishi car key to a flip key:
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Obtain a Compatible Flip Key: Purchase a flip key case designed for Mitsubishi vehicles. Ensure it’s compatible with your car model and year. These are readily available online.
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Carefully Open Your Original Key: Using a razor blade or a similar tool, carefully pry open your existing Mitsubishi key. You’ll find a seam running along the inside of the key. Gently cut along this seam to open the case.
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Remove the Transponder Chip: Inside your original key, locate the small black transponder chip, often held in a white plastic holder. Carefully remove this chip. Be very gentle as this chip is vital for starting your car.
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Install the Transponder in the Flip Key: Open your new flip key case. You should find a small cavity designed to hold the transponder chip. Insert the transponder chip from your old key into this cavity.
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Get the Key Blade Cut: Take the blank key blade included with your flip key to a locksmith. Have them cut the new blade to match your original key blade. It’s advisable to get the new blade cut before disassembling your original key.
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Transfer the Key Fob (Optional): If your goal is to also have remote locking/unlocking with your flip key, you’ll need to transfer the key fob circuit board. This is slightly more complex. You may need to open a used “cut” key with a fob inside (purchased separately). Extract the fob circuit board and install it in your flip key, if the flip key case is designed to accommodate it.
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Program the Key Fob (Remote): Programming the fob typically involves using a procedure with the OBDII port and sometimes a paper clip. Instructions for programming Mitsubishi key fobs can often be found online or in your vehicle’s manual. Search for “[your Mitsubishi model] key fob programming”.
Final Steps
Once you’ve completed these steps, assemble your new flip key. You should now be able to start your Mitsubishi using the transponder chip you transferred, and if you programmed the fob, use the remote functions as well.
Converting to a flip key is a great DIY upgrade for your Mitsubishi. By carefully following these steps, you can enjoy the convenience and style of a flip key while saving money on dealership programming costs. Remember to handle the transponder chip with care and consult online resources specific to your Mitsubishi model for detailed fob programming instructions.
