You’re heading to your truck, you go to use your Dodge Ram key fob, and nothing happens. The doors don’t unlock. The lights don’t flash. Panic doesn’t work. Your Ram Box doesn’t open. You can’t lower your air suspension (if equipped). You can’t remote start your Ram truck. You stand there, pressing the button in a fury, and maybe it works just one last time, enough to get you out of the parking lot and back home, where you scour the internet for information about Dodge Ram key fob tricks. Which, thankfully, has brought you to us! In the following article, we’ll take you through some of the common issues and fixes, as well as steps you can take if you come up short in your efforts.
This article focuses on the 4th generation of Dodge Ram trucks and their respective key fob programming issues. So if you’re looking for tips on 2012 Dodge Ram key fob programming, 2013 Dodge Ram key fob programming, 2014 Dodge Ram key fob programming, or reprogramming for any Dodge Ram fob from 2009-2019, you’ve come to the right place.
Like any remote control device, there are two main components: the transmitter (in this case, your fob) and the receiver (in this case, the RKE module in your Ram truck). Your RKE module (remote keyless entry module) is always on “the lookout” for a signal from your fob, but to do that, the RKE draws power from your vehicle while also acting as a network hub for the various security sensors in your truck. All of these components need to be working properly, and as you can see, we’ve gone from two simple parts to over a dozen in a matter of seconds. Where do we begin? Let’s start with the easy stuff and work our way up!
What else could be wrong, you ask? As we mentioned above, there are many components in this system, and without proper diagnostic tools, it can be difficult for the civilian to determine the fault. Before you pick up the phone and give us a call, look under the hood. Find your fuse box. This is known as the Totally Integrated Power Module, or TIPM. It might be corroded. A fuse or relay might also be out. Or the circuitry inside the TIPM may be shorted.
Have you gone through a deep water crossing lately? This may be part of the problem because your TIPM stands in between your battery and the RKE. If the TIPM is on the fritz, your receiver won’t be operating correctly. Other issues might require an RKE module replacement, sensor replacement, or software update. There is an open service campaign affecting many CDJR vehicles from this era, and all that is required is a 30-minute flash at your media hub with the appropriate CDJR thumb drive.
As we mentioned earlier, there can be a few easy things that you can do, right at home, which have worked successfully for many of our customers. We’ve organized the following section into a list of answers and steps to take concerning some of the most common questions on the topic. If you need assistance at any time, you can always contact your Dodge dealer in San Antonio.
Enter your Dodge Ram and turn the key to position II. This is the “run” position, right before you fully turn the fob to start your truck. Let all the lights and chimes drop out. From there, hold the “unlock” button for 10 seconds. As you release the “unlock” button, press the “panic” button. This should be a smooth transition, from pressing one button, releasing, then pressing the next. If you have done this successfully, then you will hear an audible chime. Simply press any button on the alternate fob, and you’re done. Exit the vehicle and give your programmed fob a try!
Turn your key to the ON position, but don’t start the engine. For 4-10 seconds, press and hold both the “unlock” button and the “panic” button simultaneously. Release both buttons, and listen for a chime. Press and release the “unlock” button on any other remotes you want to add within 30 seconds of hearing the chime.
Using a coin or a screwdriver, gently pry open the key fob by turning your tool to the left or right. When you have the key fob open, gently lift the circuit board (if necessary) to expose the battery. Make a note of what kind of battery it is and how it’s set in the key fob.
Sit in your car with your remote and key fob, insert your key into the ignition, and turn the key to the “run” position. Press and hold the “unlock” button on your remote for four seconds, and press the “panic” button while still holding the other button.
The key thing (yup – terrible pun intended) to keep in mind while going through this process is to relax and take your time! Yes, this issue can be frustrating when it occurs, but fortunately, it’s an easy issue to fix. Your friends at San Antonio CDJR are here to help in any way we can, so feel free to call us if you need any more information.
One of the most convenient features of modern cars is the ability to unlock or lock your vehicle through the key fob. But what happens when your key fob disconnects? We’ve all been there: stuck clicking away repeatedly as your car’s locks refuse to budge. Our certified Dodge and Ram service technicians have put together this simple guide to replacing or resetting your key fob. If you’d like to know more or have a professional quickly handle this problem, visit our do-it-all San Antonio Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM dealership.
The batteries inside our Ram key fobs are very tiny and can be replaced with a flathead screwdriver. Get your hands on a replacement battery, a clear space, and a flathead screwdriver, and you’ll be ready to begin Ram key fob replacement. Pry the key fob open using the gap on each side of the emergency key, and then separate each side with your fingers. After you snap out the previous battery and replace it with a new one with the positive side facing up, all you have to do is slide each side back into place.
Need a new key fob but don’t have much time? Visit our service center at San Antonio Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM and let our technicians know you need a key fob that works. We’ll get to work right away on your Dodge key fob replacement and send you on your way with a fully-charged key fob.
Resetting your Dodge Ram key fob begins in the driver’s seat. Turn the key to position II, the “run” position to begin. Let all the startup lights and chimes finish before fully turning the fob to start your truck. Hold the “unlock” button on your key fob for 10 seconds until you hear silence. As you stop holding down the “unlock” button, press the “panic” button. You will hear an audible chime if you successfully pull off this transition. Simply press any button on the key fob, and the resetting process should conclude. There’s only one thing left to do now: exit your vehicle and give the reset key fob a try.
To change the battery in your Ram key fob, you’ll need to pry it open first. Use a screwdriver or coin to separate the two-part cover of the key fob, then replace the battery inside. The battery should resemble a small button or coin. When replacing the battery, make sure the positive sign is facing upwards. Snap the cover back into place, and you should be able to access your truck with the click of a button.
If you live near Austin, or anywhere in Central Texas for that matter, San Antonio CDJR has your back! We’ve got a world-class sales department, so if you’re looking for a new Ram 1500 for sale, we’ve got you covered. If you’re wondering what kind of service specials or oil change coupons we have, you’ll love all the goodies that our service department has waiting for you. Keeping it all things Ram brand, if you want to check out the latest and the greatest Ram 1500 lease deals in Texas, San Antonio is the “X” on your Ram truck treasure map!
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