Are you looking to program your Mitsubishi car remote, perhaps to upgrade to a flip key or replace a lost or damaged fob? Many Mitsubishi owners find themselves in this situation, especially with older models becoming more prevalent on the used car market. This guide provides a straightforward, do-it-yourself approach, drawing from real-world experience to help you program your Mitsubishi car remote and potentially convert to a convenient flip key.
Understanding the Essentials: Transponder and Key Fob
Before diving into the programming process, it’s important to understand the two key components within your car remote system: the transponder and the key fob.
- Transponder Chip: This is a small chip, often black and encased in plastic, embedded within your key. It’s crucial for starting your car. The transponder communicates with your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) to verify the key’s authenticity and allow ignition.
- Key Fob: This is the remote control part of your key, responsible for locking/unlocking doors, and sometimes opening the trunk. It communicates with your car’s Body Control Unit (BCU).
Upgrading to a flip key often involves transferring both of these components from your existing key.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mitsubishi Car Remote Programming and Flip Key Conversion
This guide outlines how to program your Mitsubishi car remote, including the process for converting to a flip key, based on user experience.
1. Transponder Chip Transfer (For Flip Key Conversion)
If you’re converting to a flip key and already have an aftermarket key, you might be able to extract the transponder chip from your existing key.
- Carefully Open Your Old Key: Using a razor blade, gently cut along the seam of your old aftermarket key.
- Locate the Transponder Chip: Inside, you should find a small black chip, often housed in a white holder. This is your transponder.
- Remove and Insert into Flip Key: Carefully remove the transponder chip. Your new flip key should have a small cavity, usually near the flip mechanism button. Insert the transponder chip into this cavity.
Important Note: Ensure you have a new key blade cut for your flip key before you disassemble your working key. You’ll need this cut blade to start your car after the transponder transfer.
2. Key Fob Programming for Remote Functions
To program the key fob for locking/unlocking doors and trunk, you’ll likely need a separate key fob unit. A common approach is to purchase a used “cut” key with the fob intact from eBay.
- Acquire a Used Key with Fob: Search on eBay for a used Mitsubishi key that includes the fob. It’s preferable to get a “cut” key, as you’ll be dismantling it for parts.
- Dismantle the Used Key: Once you have the used key, carefully take it apart and remove the fob circuit board from the diamond-shaped section.
- Install Fob into Flip Key: Integrate the fob circuit board into your new flip key. It should fit into a designated space within the flip key casing.
- Program the Fob using OBDII Port: Follow the instructions specific to your Mitsubishi model for programming the key fob using a paper clip and the OBDII port. (Refer to your car’s manual or online Mitsubishi forums for specific programming steps for your model and year). This typically involves using a paper clip to bridge specific pins in the OBDII port and following a sequence of key turns and button presses to enter programming mode and register the new fob.
Disclaimer: Programming procedures can vary depending on your specific Mitsubishi model and year. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or reliable online resources for the most accurate instructions for your car.
Important Considerations and Tips
- Key Blade Cutting: Always get the key blade for your flip key cut before taking apart your original working key. This ensures you can still operate your vehicle.
- Emergency Starting: In an emergency, you can start your car with just a cut key and the transponder chip held near the ignition switch.
- Transponder Bypass (Not Recommended): While you could technically bypass the transponder system by permanently affixing the transponder chip near the ignition, this is strongly discouraged as it compromises your vehicle’s security.
- Resourceful Communities: Online forums and communities dedicated to Mitsubishi vehicles are valuable resources for specific programming instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Conclusion
Programming your Mitsubishi car remote and converting to a flip key is a feasible DIY project with some careful steps. By understanding the transponder and key fob components, and following a step-by-step guide, you can successfully program your remote and enjoy the convenience of a flip key. Remember to prioritize security and consult reliable resources for model-specific instructions to ensure a smooth and successful programming process for your Mitsubishi.
