Replacing your car key fob can be a cost-effective alternative to dealership services, especially when it comes to issues beyond just battery replacement. One crucial aspect of this process is handling the key fob chip, also known as the immobilizer chip. This guide will walk you through the essentials of Key Fob Chip Replacement, ensuring a smooth and successful process.
The original key fob often contains an immobilizer chip, a small but vital component that communicates with your vehicle’s anti-theft system. Simply replacing the key fob shell or the remote electronics isn’t enough if you want your new key to start your car. The vehicle needs to recognize the unique signal from your key’s immobilizer chip. Therefore, transferring this chip to your new key fob is often necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Key Fob Chip Replacement
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Accessing the Immobilizer Chip: Carefully open your original key fob. The immobilizer chip is usually a small, rectangular component, often black or brown, embedded within the key fob casing. It might be glued or fitted snugly in place.
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Removing the Chip: This is the most delicate part. Gently dig out the immobilizer chip. You can use a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool to carefully loosen it. Caution: The chip is fragile. Avoid using excessive force or metal tools that could damage it. Damage to this chip means your key will not start your car, even if the remote functions work.
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Transferring to the New Key Fob: Open your new key fob shell. Locate the designated slot for the immobilizer chip, which is typically in a similar position as in the original fob. Place the immobilizer chip into the new key fob.
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Securing the Chip: To prevent the chip from moving or falling out of place, use a small amount of sticky tack or hot glue to secure it in the new key fob. Ensure the glue does not cover the chip’s contact points, if any are visible.
Programming Your Key Fob Remote (Example: Honda Pilot)
After successfully replacing the key fob chip, you’ll likely need to program the remote functions (lock, unlock, etc.) for your new key fob to work with your car’s remote entry system. Here’s a general programming procedure, using the Honda Pilot as an example. Note that specific steps can vary by car model, so always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate instructions.
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Preparation: Ensure all doors and the trunk/hatch are tightly closed. Have all the remotes you wish to program ready.
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Enter Programming Mode:
- Sit in the driver’s seat with all doors closed.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position (usually position “II” – dash lights on) and within 5 seconds, press the “Lock” button on one of your remotes for about 1 second and release.
- Turn the key to the “OFF” position (usually position “I” – dash lights off).
- Repeat the “ON” and “OFF” key turns and “Lock” button press a total of four times. Each step must be completed within 5 seconds.
- On the 4th “ON” turn, press the lock button on a remote. The car locks should cycle (make a clunking sound) indicating programming mode is active. Do not turn the key off.
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Program Remotes: Within 5 seconds of entering programming mode, and within 5 seconds of each other, press the “Lock” button on each remote you want to program for about a second and release. Each successful remote programming should be indicated by the locks cycling again. Up to 3 remotes can often be programmed in one session.
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Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition completely off and remove the key. Exit the car and close the door. Test all programmed remotes to ensure they are working correctly.
When to Consider Professional Help
While key fob chip replacement and remote programming can be DIY tasks, there are situations where professional help is recommended:
- Difficulty Removing the Chip: If you are uncomfortable or struggling to remove the immobilizer chip without risk of damage, a locksmith with experience in car keys can assist.
- Key Cutting: If your new key fob requires a key blade that needs to be cut, you will need a locksmith or key cutting service. Some locksmiths specialize in automotive keys and can handle both key cutting and immobilizer chip transfer.
- Programming Issues: If you encounter difficulties programming your remote, a locksmith has specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to program keys and remotes, and can diagnose potential underlying issues.
Conclusion
Replacing your key fob chip is a critical step in transferring functionality to a new car key. By carefully following these steps and considering when professional expertise is beneficial, you can effectively manage your key fob replacement and save on potential dealership costs. Remember to prioritize careful handling of the immobilizer chip and always consult your vehicle’s manual for specific programming instructions.
