Are you experiencing problems with your 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Key Fob? You’re not alone. Many owners of the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer, along with the Outlander and Lancer Evolution models from the same era, have encountered issues with their keyless operation system. Specifically, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was issued to address concerns about the 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob losing its programming. This article will delve into the details of this TSB and what it means for owners experiencing these frustrating key fob problems.
The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Key Fob Problem: Electrical Interference
Mitsubishi Motors released TSB-08-42A-013 in July 2008 to inform dealerships and technicians about a specific issue affecting the F.A.S.T. key (key fob) in certain models. The core problem identified was that these key fobs could lose their programming due to electrical interference. This interference could originate from everyday devices like mobile phones if kept in close proximity to the key fob. Imagine the frustration of your 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob suddenly failing to operate because of your cell phone!
This TSB highlighted that data stored in the key fob’s memory could be accidentally erased by these electrical signals. This erasure would lead to a malfunction of the Keyless Operation System (K.O.S.), making it impossible to start the vehicle using the keyless feature.
Symptoms of a Failing 2008 Lancer Key Fob
According to the TSB, there are specific symptoms to look for if you suspect your 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob has been affected by this issue. These conditions need to be confirmed in an environment free from electronic interference to ensure accurate diagnosis:
- Ignition Knob Won’t Turn: You are unable to turn the ignition knob from the “Lock” position. This is a primary indicator of the problem.
- “Missing Key” Display: The Multi-Information Display (MID) screen shows a “Missing Key” message when you attempt to turn the ignition knob. This message indicates the system is not recognizing the key fob.
While Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are not typically stored, the TSB mentions that in some cases, DTCs B1A08, B1A09, B1A0A, or B1A0B might be present. If any other DTCs are present, the TSB directs technicians to follow standard diagnostic procedures in the service manual, as the issue might be unrelated to this specific key fob problem.
The Official Solution: Mitsubishi TSB-08-42A-013 and Key Fob Replacement
The TSB provides a clear solution for this 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob issue: replacing both of the customer’s F.A.S.T. keys. Mitsubishi developed improved key fobs designed to be more resistant to electrical interference, thus reducing the likelihood of data erasure and key fob malfunction.
The repair procedure outlined in the TSB involves:
- Confirmation of Conditions: Dealership technicians are instructed to confirm the symptoms described above in an environment free of electrical interference.
- Key Fob Replacement: If the conditions are confirmed, both key fobs should be replaced with the updated parts.
- Key Registration: Using a MUT-III scan tool, technicians must register the new F.A.S.T. keys to the vehicle. This process includes registering the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) functions as well.
It’s important to note the part numbers provided in the TSB for the replacement key blanks:
- 8637A228: Key, Keyless Operation Blank – Lancer/Lancer Evolution (Quantity: 2)
- 8637A316: Key, Keyless Operation Blank – Outlander (Quantity: 2)
A crucial detail is that these replacement key blanks do not include the emergency key. Technicians are instructed to transfer the customer’s existing emergency keys into the new F.A.S.T. key fobs.
Warranty Information and Customer Advice
The TSB clarifies that this information is for technical guidance and not a repair authorization. Repairs are to be performed on a complaint basis. However, for affected vehicles exhibiting the described condition, the repair (replacement of two F.A.S.T. keys) is covered under the New Vehicle Limited Warranty (5 years / 60,000 miles).
The warranty information provided in the TSB is as follows:
- Nature Code: 02A
- Cause Code: 270
- Labor Operation No.: 42871710
- Time Allowance: 0.3 hr.
Dealers are also advised to remind customers about the emergency key stored within the F.A.S.T. key. This emergency key can be used to start the vehicle if the K.O.S. system is not functioning, potentially preventing unnecessary towing. Reviewing the owner’s manual for emergency key usage is recommended.
What to Do If You Experience 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Key Fob Problems
If you own a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (or Outlander/Lancer Evolution built before May 2008) and are experiencing the key fob issues described, here’s what you should do:
- Identify Symptoms: Check if you are experiencing the inability to turn the ignition knob and the “Missing Key” display.
- Minimize Interference: Try to use your key fob away from potential sources of electrical interference like mobile phones or other electronic devices to see if the issue persists.
- Contact Your Mitsubishi Dealer: Schedule a service appointment at your local Mitsubishi dealership. Mention TSB-08-42A-013 and describe the symptoms you are experiencing with your 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob.
- Inquire About Warranty Coverage: Even if your vehicle is outside the standard New Vehicle Limited Warranty period, it’s worth inquiring if any goodwill or extended coverage might apply, especially given the existence of this TSB.
Understanding the TSB related to the 2008 mitsubishi lancer key fob issue can empower you to communicate effectively with your Mitsubishi dealer and seek the appropriate solution. While the situation can be inconvenient, knowing the cause and the official remedy can help resolve the problem and get you back on the road with a reliably functioning key fob.
