So, you’re the proud owner of a pre-owned Ram Promaster, but maybe you’re a little light on keys. Like many, you might have heard tales of dealerships charging an arm and a leg for extra key fobs, with prices soaring into the hundreds and wait times stretching for weeks, even months. Frustrated by this, I decided to explore a more wallet-friendly approach to getting a spare remote for my 2014 Promaster 3500, which originally came with just one remote and a regular key. This guide shares my experience and steps to help you program your own Ram Promaster key fob, potentially saving you significant money and time.
I started by purchasing a key fob online from Amazon for around $30. Visually, it was identical to my original, although the cargo area unlock button featured a car trunk icon instead of the van symbol. My next step was to get the key cut and programmed, so I headed to Batteries Plus Bulbs. Interestingly, the first location I visited was hesitant to take on the job, citing the perceived complexity of the programming procedure. Undeterred, I tried another Batteries Plus Bulbs store, and they were willing to give it a shot. However, they ran into trouble cutting the key itself. Following their recommendation, I went to a nearby locksmith. This locksmith successfully cut the key for $20, but unfortunately, they lacked the necessary “pre-coding” device required for programming the Ram Promaster key fob. This sent me back to Batteries Plus Bulbs, where, with the key now properly cut, they were finally able to pre-code and program the new key fob. It’s important to note that I brought both my original remote and regular key with me, as the programming process requires ALL keys to be present and reprogrammed at the same time.
Based on my experience at Batteries Plus Bulbs, here are some procedural remarks regarding the device they used for programming:
- Firmware Options: The device offered two firmware options: CJD_AP16 specifically for 2500/3500 models and CJD_AP12 for 1500 models. Ensure the correct firmware is selected for your Promaster model.
- Key Type Selection: For flip key remotes, the device required selecting type PCF7946. For standard transponder keys, the type PCF7936 was necessary. Verify you are using the correct type setting for your key.
- Smartbox Reset Access: A crucial step involves accessing the smartbox for reset. This requires locating the OBD2 port, typically found on the lower left side under the steering wheel. Near the OBD2 port, you’ll need to unscrew two screws to reveal a large gray clip with two red wires. Unplugging this clip is essential to reset the smartbox both after pre-coding and before the final key programming.
- PIN Code Importance: Be prepared to have a PIN code readily available during the programming stage. The pre-coding process will display this PIN code information. It’s highly recommended to take a picture of the displayed PIN code with your phone as a backup reference.
- Programming Sequence: Follow the on-screen prompts carefully during the programming procedure. Typically, you start by programming the new key fob first. Once the new key is programmed, you will be prompted to program the existing keys. This usually involves simply bringing the old keys close to the ignition switch when instructed, without removing the new key from the ignition. During my programming, we initially took the electronics out of the new key, leaving only the cut key inserted in the ignition, but in hindsight, this step was likely unnecessary.
- PIN Code Consistency: Interestingly, the PIN code remained the same even when using different programmer brands. However, it’s important to note that pre-coding data, remote pre-coding data, and CS code may not transfer across different programmer brands.
- Remote Activation Time: After the programming process is completed, the remote functionality might not activate immediately. It may take approximately 5-10 seconds of keeping the key in the ignition and turning the ignition to the “ON” position for the remote features to become active. Simply programming the key is not enough to immediately enable the remote functions.
Key Takeaways:
- Dealer Not Required: You absolutely do not need to go to a dealership to obtain and program new Ram Promaster keys.
- Locksmith or Batteries Plus: A locksmith equipped with a key cutting machine and a pre-coder device should be able to handle the entire process. Alternatively, most Batteries Plus Bulbs locations are likely to have pre-coder devices, although key cutting capabilities might vary.
- Pre-coder Necessity: While many locksmiths can cut keys, pre-coder devices are not universally available due to subscription or usage-based service models. Therefore, confirm that your chosen locksmith or service provider has a pre-coder.
- Battery Reset Solution: In the unlikely event that something goes wrong during programming and your Promaster fails to start even with the original key (possibly due to the computer getting stuck in programming mode), a simple battery reset can resolve the issue. The battery is located under the driver’s side floor. Just lift the floor flap, disconnect the negative battery terminal for a few seconds, and reconnect it to reset the van’s computer. This should allow you to start the engine again.
I hope this detailed account of my Ram Promaster Key Fob Programming experience proves helpful and empowers you to explore cost-effective alternatives to dealership services.
