Are you experiencing issues with your 2008 Lancer Key Fob? You’re not alone. Many owners of the 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer, Lancer Evolution, and Outlander have encountered problems with their keyless operation system (K.O.S.) and F.A.S.T. keys. Mitsubishi Motors issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) to address these concerns, specifically TSB-08-42A-013, dated July 2008. This bulletin outlines a potential issue where the key fob can lose its programming, rendering the keyless entry and ignition functions inoperable.
The 2008 Lancer Key Fob Issue: Electrical Interference
According to the TSB, the primary cause of this key fob malfunction is electrical interference. The bulletin explains that the F.A.S.T. key, or key fob, in affected vehicles could have its memory erased due to electrical interference from devices like mobile phones. If these devices are kept in close proximity to the key fob, it can disrupt the data and lead to programming loss.
This issue affects the following vehicles built prior to May 2008:
- 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
- 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer
- 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Symptoms of a Failing 2008 Lancer Key Fob
How do you know if your 2008 Lancer key fob is experiencing this issue? The TSB outlines specific conditions to confirm the problem. These conditions should be checked in an environment free from electronic interference.
- Ignition Knob Problem: You are unable to turn the ignition knob from the “Lock” position. This is a key indicator that the keyless operation system is not recognizing your key fob.
- “Missing Key” Display: The Multi-Information Display (MID) screen shows a “Missing Key” message when you attempt to turn the ignition knob. This message further confirms that the system is not communicating with your key fob.
In most cases, no Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) will be stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). However, in some instances, you might find one of the following DTCs: B1A08, B1A09, B1A0A, or B1A0B. If any other DTCs are present, the TSB advises against proceeding with the key fob replacement outlined in the bulletin and recommends diagnosing and repairing according to the service manual for those specific codes first.
The Mitsubishi Solution: Key Fob Replacement
If you confirm the symptoms described above, Mitsubishi’s recommended solution in the TSB is to replace both of your F.A.S.T. keys with improved parts. These updated key fobs are designed to be less susceptible to accidental data erasure caused by electrical interference.
To perform the replacement and programming, dealers are instructed to refer to the service manual or the Advanced Electrical Service Procedures (AESP) study manual and use the MUT-III scan tool to register the new F.A.S.T. keys to the vehicle. It’s also crucial to register the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) functions for the new keys during this process.
Part Information for 2008 Lancer Key Fobs
The TSB provides the following Genuine Mitsubishi Parts numbers for the replacement key fobs:
- 8637A228: Key, Keyless Operation Blank – Lancer/Lancer Evolution (Quantity: 2)
- 8637A316: Key, Keyless Operation Blank – Outlander (Quantity: 2)
Important Note: The replacement F.A.S.T. key blanks do not include the emergency key. Technicians are instructed to transfer the customer’s existing emergency keys to the new F.A.S.T. key fobs.
Warranty and Key Fob Replacement
The TSB itself is provided as technical information and is not an automatic authorization for repair. Repairs are to be performed on a complaint basis only. If your affected vehicle exhibits the described condition, and it’s diagnosed according to the TSB procedure, the repair, which involves replacing both key fobs, is covered under warranty.
- Nature Code: 02A
- Cause Code: 270
- Labor Operation No.: 42871710
- Time Allowance: 0.3 hr.
- Warranty Coverage: 5 years / 60,000 miles, New Vehicle Limited Warranty
It is important to note that warranty claims for key fob replacements where “No Fault Found” is determined may be subject to chargeback. Therefore, it’s essential to accurately diagnose the issue based on the conditions outlined in the Repair Procedure section of the TSB.
Preventing Future Key Fob Issues
While the improved key fobs are designed to mitigate the electrical interference problem, it’s still a good practice to be mindful of where you store your key fob. Avoid keeping your 2008 Lancer key fob in close proximity to mobile phones or other devices that emit strong electrical signals.
Mitsubishi also reminds owners that the emergency key stored within the F.A.S.T. key can be used to start the vehicle if the K.O.S. system is not functioning. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on using the emergency key to prevent unnecessary towing situations.
If you are experiencing these key fob issues with your 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer, Lancer Evolution, or Outlander, it’s recommended to contact your local Mitsubishi dealer and inquire about TSB-08-42A-013. Understanding this bulletin can help you communicate the problem effectively and potentially resolve your key fob issues under warranty if your vehicle is eligible.
