Losing or damaging your key fob can be a real hassle, especially for your 2008 Dodge Charger. Fortunately, replacing your key fob doesn’t always require a trip to the dealership. If you’re equipped with two working key fobs, you can actually program a new one yourself right at home. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your 2008 Dodge Charger key fob and explain your options whether you have one or two existing keys.
Programming Your 2008 Dodge Charger Key Fob at Home
For those who already possess two functional sentry keys for their 2008 Dodge Charger, programming a new key fob is a straightforward procedure you can complete yourself. It’s crucial to ensure that any new key fob you purchase has never been previously programmed to another vehicle. Pre-programmed fobs cannot be reprogrammed to your car. Here’s how to program your new 2008 Dodge Charger key fob:
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Insert and Turn First Valid Key: Place your first working key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position. Keep it in the “ON” position for a minimum of 3 seconds, but do not exceed 15 seconds. After this time, turn the ignition “OFF” and remove the key.
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Insert and Turn Second Valid Key: Within 15 seconds of removing the first key, insert your second working key into the ignition. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position again. Wait for approximately ten seconds. You will hear a chime sound, and the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light on your dashboard will begin to flash. Once this occurs, turn the ignition “OFF” and remove the second key.
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Insert New Unprogrammed Key: Within 60 seconds of removing the second valid key, insert your new, unprogrammed Sentry Key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position. After about 10 seconds, you will hear a single chime. The Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will stop flashing, turn on solid for 3 seconds, and then turn off. This sequence confirms that your new 2008 Dodge Charger key fob is successfully programmed. The keyless entry transmitter functions will also be programmed during this process.
You can repeat these steps to program up to a total of 8 keys for your 2008 Dodge Charger.
What If You Only Have One Valid Key?
If you currently have only one functioning key for your 2008 Dodge Charger and need a replacement, the self-programming method will not work. In this situation, you will need to visit a qualified professional to program the new key fob for you. This typically means taking your Dodge Charger to an authorized Dodge dealership or a certified automotive locksmith. They have the necessary equipment to program your new key even without a second existing key.
Important Note on Key Fob Purchases
When purchasing a replacement 2008 Dodge Charger key fob, always verify that the key has not been previously programmed. Purchasing a used key fob that was already programmed to another vehicle will render it unusable for your car, as it cannot be reprogrammed. Ensure you are buying a new, unprogrammed key to guarantee successful programming for your 2008 Dodge Charger.
