Experiencing issues with your 2015 Chrysler 200 key fob? It can be frustrating when your remote key fob stops working, leaving you unable to lock, unlock, or remotely start your vehicle. Luckily, often the problem isn’t a dead battery or a malfunctioning fob, but simply a loss of synchronization between your key fob and your car’s receiver. This article will guide you through the process of resetting or resynchronizing your 2015 Chrysler 200 key fob, potentially saving you a trip to the dealership.
Understanding why your key fob might need resetting is the first step. Modern key fobs, like the ones used in the 2015 Chrysler 200, utilize a “rolling code” system. This sophisticated security measure is designed to prevent theft. Imagine it like a garage door opener that changes its access code slightly every time you use it. This rolling code system ensures that even if someone were to intercept your key fob signal, they wouldn’t be able to use that same code again to gain unauthorized access to your vehicle.
However, this rolling code system can sometimes lead to a desynchronization issue. According to Chrysler service information, if you repeatedly press the buttons on your key fob outside of your vehicle’s range – especially more than 255 times – or if you replace the key fob battery, the transmitter and receiver in your car can lose their synchronization. Think of it as the two devices getting out of step with each other in their rolling code sequence.
Fortunately, Chrysler has provided a resynchronization procedure that you can attempt yourself. This method focuses on re-establishing communication between your key fob and your 2015 Chrysler 200.
Here’s how to attempt to resynchronize your 2015 Chrysler 200 key fob:
Resynchronization Procedure:
- Locate your 2015 Chrysler 200 and your key fob. Ensure you are near your vehicle for the resynchronization process.
- Focus on the “UNLOCK” button. The official Chrysler service procedure emphasizes the use of the unlock button for resynchronization.
- Press and Release the “UNLOCK” button repeatedly. Press the “UNLOCK” button on your key fob multiple times in succession. Chrysler specifies that it may take up to eight cycles for the resynchronization to occur.
- Listen for the Door Locks. As you press the “UNLOCK” button, pay close attention to your vehicle’s power door locks. You should be listening for the distinct sound of the door locks cycling (attempting to lock and unlock). This cycling sound is the key indicator that the resynchronization process is working and that your car is attempting to re-establish communication with the key fob.
- Test the Key Fob. After pressing the unlock button up to eight times and hopefully hearing the door locks cycle, test all the buttons on your key fob – lock, unlock, remote start (if equipped), and panic button. If the resynchronization was successful, your key fob should now be functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
- Lock Function Verification: Even if your key fob is out of sync, the lock function may still work. You can test this by pressing the “LOCK” button on your key fob. If the doors lock, it confirms that the key fob transmitter is still sending a signal, but synchronization for other functions may be lost.
- Spare Key Fob Recommendation: The original article wisely recommends having a spare key fob. If you only have one key fob and it fails, you could be stranded. Having a spare ensures you always have a working remote and can avoid potential inconveniences. Consider obtaining a spare key fob and having it programmed to your 2015 Chrysler 200 for peace of mind.
- Professional Programming: Keep in mind that key fobs are programmed to a specific vehicle and cannot be reprogrammed to a different car once they are paired. Programming and, in some cases, resetting key fobs often requires specialized equipment. Dealerships and qualified locksmith services have access to the necessary tools and diagnostic equipment to program new key fobs and address more complex key fob issues. They also possess the secret 4-digit code required for programming Chrysler key fobs, which is not accessible to the general public.
When to Seek Professional Help:
If you have diligently followed the resynchronization procedure outlined above and your 2015 Chrysler 200 key fob still isn’t working, it’s time to seek professional assistance. Here are scenarios where you should contact a Chrysler dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith:
- Persistent Synchronization Failure: If the door locks do not cycle after multiple attempts to resynchronize using the unlock button method, there might be a more significant issue than just desynchronization.
- Suspect Key Fob Malfunction: If you suspect your key fob is damaged, has a dead battery (even after replacement), or is otherwise malfunctioning, professional diagnosis is needed.
- Lost Key Fobs and Replacements: If you need a replacement key fob because you’ve lost one or both of your originals, you will need to have a new key fob programmed to your vehicle by a dealer or locksmith.
Conclusion:
Resynchronizing your 2015 Chrysler 200 key fob is often a straightforward process that can be accomplished by repeatedly pressing the “UNLOCK” button. Understanding the rolling code system and following the Chrysler recommended procedure can help you regain functionality of your remote. However, if these steps fail, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. And remember, having a spare key fob is always a smart preventative measure to avoid key fob related headaches in the future.
