Upgrading to a flip key for your Mitsubishi can be a worthwhile endeavor, enhancing both convenience and aesthetics. Many Mitsubishi owners, especially those with models from the 4G Eclipse era and similar periods, may find themselves with standard, non-flip keys. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to convert to a flip key and program it for your vehicle, drawing upon community experiences and practical steps.
Understanding the Key Components
Before diving into the programming process, it’s essential to understand the components within your Mitsubishi key and the flip key you intend to use. Typically, a Mitsubishi car key comprises three main parts:
- The Key Blade: This is the physical, cut metal part that fits into the ignition to start the car.
- The Transponder Chip: A small black chip embedded within the key. This chip is crucial for security; it communicates with your car’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) to allow the engine to start. Without a programmed transponder, the car will crank but not start.
- The Key Fob (Remote): This is the electronic component that controls remote locking, unlocking, and sometimes trunk release. It communicates with the car’s Body Control Unit (BCU).
An example of a Mitsubishi key with a transponder chip that can be transferred to a flip key.
Step-by-Step Guide to Converting to a Flip Key
The conversion process involves transferring these components to a flip key shell and then programming the necessary parts. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on user experiences:
1. Transponder Chip Transfer
This step is crucial for starting your car with the new flip key.
- Open Your Existing Key: Carefully open your existing Mitsubishi key. Most keys can be opened by gently prying along the seam. A razor blade or thin plastic tool can be helpful for this.
- Locate and Remove the Transponder Chip: Inside, you’ll find a small black chip, often housed in a white plastic holder. This is the transponder chip. Carefully remove it.
- Insert into the Flip Key: Open your new flip key shell. Locate a small cavity, usually near the flip mechanism button. This cavity is designed to hold the transponder chip. Insert the transponder chip from your old key into this cavity in the flip key.
2. Key Blade Cutting
To physically start your car, the flip key needs to have the correct key blade.
- Get the Flip Key Blade Cut: Before disassembling your original key, it’s highly recommended to get the key blade for your flip key cut. Take the uncut flip key blade and your original key to a locksmith or key cutting service. They can duplicate the cut from your original key onto the new flip key blade.
- Alternative (If Key Blade Cutting is Delayed): If you haven’t cut the flip key blade yet, you can still start your car after transferring the transponder. Simply hold the portion of your original key with the transponder chip near the ignition switch while using the uncut flip key blade to turn the ignition. This bypasses the immobilizer system temporarily, allowing you to start the car, but it’s not a permanent or convenient solution.
3. Programming the Key Fob (Remote Functions)
If you want remote locking/unlocking and trunk release functions on your flip key, you’ll need to program the key fob. This involves using a separate key fob module, often sourced from a used Mitsubishi key with remote functions.
- Acquire a Used Key with Fob: Search online marketplaces like eBay for a used Mitsubishi “cut” key that includes the key fob module (the remote control part). “Cut” in this context usually means the key blade is already cut, but for this step, we are primarily interested in the fob module inside.
- Dismantle the Used Key Fob: Once you have the used key, carefully dismantle it to remove the fob module from its housing.
- Install Fob into Flip Key: The flip key shell should have space to accommodate a key fob module. Install the fob module from the used key into the designated area within your flip key.
4. Programming the Key Fob to Your Car (Remote Functions)
Now that you have the fob module installed, you need to program it to communicate with your car’s BCU. This often involves an OBDII port programming procedure.
- Locate OBDII Port: Your car’s OBDII (On-Board Diagnostics II) port is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Programming Procedure (General Method – Consult Your Manual for Specific Instructions): While specific steps can vary slightly by Mitsubishi model and year, a common method involves using a paper clip to bridge specific pins in the OBDII port and cycling the ignition key. It’s crucial to consult your Mitsubishi owner’s manual or a reliable online resource specific to your car model for the exact programming steps. General instructions often involve:
- Inserting the key into the ignition and turning it to the “ON” position (without starting the engine).
- Locating the correct pins on the OBDII port (refer to your car’s specific instructions).
- Using a paper clip to briefly bridge the specified pins.
- Pressing buttons on the key fob to program it. You may hear a chime or see a light indicating successful programming.
Disclaimer: OBDII programming procedures can be complex and vary significantly between models and years. Incorrect procedures can potentially cause issues with your car’s electronics. If you are uncomfortable with this process, it’s highly recommended to consult a professional locksmith or car technician.
Conclusion
Converting to a flip key for your Mitsubishi involves a combination of physical component transfer and electronic programming. By carefully following these steps and ensuring you have the correct components and information for your specific Mitsubishi model, you can successfully upgrade to a more modern and convenient flip key. Remember to prioritize getting the key blade professionally cut and to exercise caution and consult reliable resources when performing OBDII programming. Enjoy the enhanced functionality and style of your new flip key!
