Are you looking to upgrade your standard car key to a more modern flip key, especially for a used car that might have come with an aftermarket or basic key? Many car owners find themselves in this situation, particularly with vehicles that have been on the used car market for a while. The good news is, in many cases, you can program a remote fob for a decoded car, and this article will guide you through a practical approach based on real-world experience.
This guide focuses on converting a standard aftermarket key to a flip key with remote functionalities, drawing from insights shared by users who have successfully performed this upgrade. While specific steps might vary depending on your car’s make and model, the general principles discussed here can be broadly applicable, especially for models like the Mitsubishi Eclipse mentioned in the original post.
Understanding the Key Components: Transponder and Fob
Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand the two main components within your car key:
- Transponder Chip: This is a small chip, often black and encased in plastic, responsible for security. It communicates with your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) to allow the engine to start. Without a programmed transponder chip, your car won’t start, even if the key physically fits the ignition.
- Remote Fob: This part of the key (or separate fob) controls the remote locking/unlocking of doors, and sometimes the trunk. It communicates with the car’s Body Control Unit (BCU).
Converting Your Key: Step-by-Step Guide
The process generally involves these steps, combining the components of your existing key with a new flip key fob:
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Disassemble Your Existing Aftermarket Key: Carefully open your current aftermarket key. In many cases, these keys are designed to snap together. Using a razor blade or a thin tool, gently pry along the seam of the key casing.
Alt text: Close-up of an aftermarket car key, illustrating the type of key that can be upgraded to a flip key fob.
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Locate and Remove the Transponder Chip: Inside the key casing, you’ll find a small black chip, often housed in a white plastic holder. This is the transponder chip. Carefully remove it. Handle it with care as it’s crucial for starting your car.
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Prepare Your Flip Key: Obtain a compatible flip key. These are readily available online. Ensure you get the correct type for your car model if possible. Open the flip key casing. You should find a cavity designed to hold a transponder chip.
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Insert the Transponder Chip into the Flip Key: Place the transponder chip from your old key into the designated cavity within the flip key. Ensure it fits securely.
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Get the Flip Key Blade Cut: Take the flip key blade to a locksmith or key cutting service and have it cut to match your car’s ignition. It’s highly recommended to get the new blade cut before disassembling your original working key. This ensures you always have a working key during the process.
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Test the Transponder Functionality: With the transponder chip installed and the new blade cut, test if the flip key starts your car. If it starts, the transponder transfer was successful.
Adding Remote Fob Functionality
To enable remote locking/unlocking, you’ll need a key fob module. Here’s how to integrate it:
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Acquire a Used Key with Fob: Search online marketplaces like eBay for a used car key that includes the remote fob module. Ideally, find one that is for the same car make and model. A “cut” key is acceptable as you are primarily interested in the fob module inside.
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Dismantle the Used Key and Extract the Fob Module: Carefully take apart the used key you acquired and remove the fob module from its casing.
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Install the Fob Module in Your Flip Key: Many flip key designs have space to accommodate a small fob module. Install the fob module you extracted into the flip key casing.
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Program the Fob to Your Car: This is the final, crucial step. Car key fobs are programmed to communicate with your car’s BCU. The programming method varies by car manufacturer and model. A common DIY method involves using a paper clip to bridge specific pins in the OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II) port under your dashboard, along with a sequence of turning the ignition key. Search online for specific “key fob programming instructions” for your car’s make, model, and year. Resources like online forums and YouTube tutorials can be very helpful.
Alt text: Illustration of a car’s OBDII port, highlighting its location under the dashboard, used for key fob programming and vehicle diagnostics.
Important Considerations and Disclaimer
- Vehicle Specifics: These instructions are a general guide. The exact steps and compatibility can vary significantly depending on your car’s make, model, and year. Always research specific guides for your vehicle.
- Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable with disassembling keys or working with your car’s electronics, it’s always recommended to consult a professional locksmith or car mechanic.
- Transponder Chip Security: Be extremely careful when handling the transponder chip. Damage or loss of this chip will prevent your car from starting.
- Used Fob Compatibility: While used fobs can often be reprogrammed, there’s no guarantee of compatibility. Ensure you are purchasing a fob that is likely to be compatible with your car.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a flip key with remote fob functionality from a basic or aftermarket key is achievable for many car owners. By carefully transferring the transponder chip and integrating a used key fob module, you can enhance the convenience and modernity of your car key. Remember to prioritize research, proceed with caution, and seek professional help if needed. Enjoy the satisfaction of upgrading your car key yourself!
