Like many 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander owners, I’ve encountered frustrating issues with my key fob. Recently, one of my key fobs stopped working, even after checking the battery. This isn’t the first time I’ve had trouble, and it’s prompted me to delve deeper into reprogramming the remote myself. The user manual for the 2009 Outlander (page 3-12) provides instructions for key programming, and while seemingly straightforward, step 3 has caused some confusion regarding the button release sequence.
For those also experiencing difficulties with their 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Key Fob, or similar models around that year, let’s break down the programming steps from the user manual and try to clarify the ambiguous instruction. Here are the steps as outlined:
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Gather Your Remotes: Ensure you have all your current and any new remote control transmitters you intend to register ready.
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Initiate Programming Sequence: With a working remote, press and hold the UNLOCK button for 4 to 10 seconds. While still holding UNLOCK, press and hold the LOCK button.
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Release Buttons – The Confusing Part: Within 10 seconds of pressing the LOCK button, release the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons in sequence. The manual states “release the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons in sequence,” which is open to interpretation. Based on common practices for similar systems, it likely means to release both buttons almost simultaneously, or with a very slight delay between releasing LOCK then UNLOCK. This action should activate registration mode, indicated by the car’s answerback function (doors locking and unlocking). If this answerback doesn’t occur, restart from step 2.
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Register First Remote: Within 60 seconds of successful registration mode activation, take the remote you want to program and perform the following within 4 seconds:
i) Press and hold both the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for 2 seconds.
ii) Release both LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for 1 second.
iii) Press the UNLOCK button. Successful registration of this key fob will be confirmed by the answerback function. -
Register Additional Remotes: To program more key fobs, repeat step 4 within 60 seconds of the previous remote’s registration.
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Exit Programming Mode: If no key fob registration occurs within 60 seconds after step 4, the system will automatically exit programming mode.
If you’ve meticulously followed these steps for your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander key fob and are still facing issues, you’re not alone. The vagueness of step 3 is a common point of confusion. Experiment with releasing the buttons nearly simultaneously versus a slight sequence (LOCK then UNLOCK). If reprogramming continues to fail, consider potential issues beyond programming, such as a faulty key fob transmitter or receiver in the vehicle itself. Community forums and professional locksmiths specializing in automotive keys can also offer valuable insights and troubleshooting advice for your 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander key fob problems.
