Dodge Viper Key Fob Programming: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lost your Dodge Viper Key Fob or need to program a new one? Don’t worry, programming your key fob for your Gen I or Gen II Dodge Viper can be a straightforward process you can accomplish right at home in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to program your Dodge Viper key fob, ensuring you regain remote access to your vehicle quickly and efficiently.

Programming Your Gen I Dodge Viper Key Fob

This section applies to all Gen I Dodge Vipers. The programming process involves grounding a specific wire located near the SAM and RKE modules.

Grounding Point for Gen I Viper

Locate the green “Program” wire situated next to the SAM (System Acquisition Module) and RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) modules. This is a green wire with a bullet connector on the end and is typically found under the driver’s side instrument panel.

Programming Steps for Gen I Viper

1. Ensure your Viper’s alarm system is disarmed.
2. Ground the green “Program” wire. Use a low amperage fused jumper wire for safety and to prevent any electrical issues. Confirm a solid ground connection using an ohm meter to a body ground point.
3. Turn the ignition to the “run” position while keeping the green wire grounded.
4. The system will acknowledge programming mode. The dash LED will flash to indicate that the system has entered programming mode. If the LED does not flash, re-check your ground connection, ensure you have the correct wire, and repeat the process.
5. Press and release the arm or disarm button on each key fob you want to program. Program one fob, then repeat for any additional fobs. Gen I Vipers can typically program up to 2 key fobs.
6. Complete the programming. Turn the ignition off and disconnect the green wire from the ground.
7. Test your key fobs. Verify the arm and disarm functions to ensure successful programming.

Programming Your Gen II Dodge Viper Key Fob (1996-2002)

The programming process for Gen II Vipers varies slightly depending on the year model. We will cover both variations below.

Grounding Point for Gen II Viper (1996-1998)

For 1996 to 1998 Gen II Vipers, you will need to locate pin C13. This is a loose green wire taped to the harness of the EEM (Electronic Entry Module) connector. The EEM is located under the dash, on the left side of the transmission tunnel, directly above the accelerator pedal. Access is easier if you remove the knee bolster and the rubber bungee cord that secures the EEM to the tunnel. The green wire is often tucked up under the dash to the left of the radio and has a rubber boot on the end with nothing connected to it.

Programming Steps for Gen II Viper (1996-1998)

1. Ensure the alarm system is not armed.
2. Ground pin C13 (the green wire) of the EEM connector. Use a fused jumper wire and ensure a solid body ground connection.
3. Turn the ignition to the “run” position while keeping the green wire grounded.
4. The EEM will acknowledge programming mode. The dash LED will flash. If it doesn’t flash, double-check your wire and ground.
5. Press and hold BOTH buttons on the transmitter simultaneously for 10 seconds. You should hear a triple horn chirp to confirm the key fob is accepted by the EEM.
6. Program all key fobs at once. You must program all key fobs you intend to use during the same programming session. Gen II Vipers can program up to 4 key fobs.
7. Finish the programming. Turn the ignition off and remove the green wire from the ground.
8. Test the programmed key fobs. Check the arm and disarm functions.

Grounding Point for Gen II Viper (1999-2002)

For 1999 to 2002 Gen II Vipers, the grounding point shifts to Terminal 1 of the DLC (Data Link Connector). The DLC is the OBD2 connector located under the dash, above your left knee.

Programming Steps for Gen II Viper (1999-2002)

1. Disarm the Viper’s alarm system.
2. Ground Terminal 1 of the DLC. Use a fused jumper wire and confirm a solid ground.
3. Turn the ignition to the “run” position while maintaining the ground.
4. Look for the dash LED flash. This indicates programming mode is active. Troubleshoot ground/wire if no flash.
5. Press and hold BOTH transmitter buttons for 10 seconds. Listen for the triple horn chirp confirming acceptance.
6. Program all fobs together. Program all desired key fobs in this session (up to 4 for Gen II).
7. Complete and test. Turn off ignition, remove ground, and test all key fob functions.

Important Notes and Tips for Dodge Viper Key Fob Programming

• Safety First: Always use a low amperage fused jumper wire when grounding any wires in your vehicle’s electrical system. This will protect against accidental shorts and potential damage.
• Solid Ground: Ensure you have a solid and reliable ground connection. A poor ground is a common reason for programming failure. Use an ohm meter to verify your ground point.
• Correct Wire: Double and triple-check that you are grounding the correct wire and pin for your specific Viper generation and year. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual if needed for absolute certainty.
• Simultaneous Programming: Remember to program all of your key fobs during a single programming session. Any key fobs not programmed during the session may not work afterwards.
• Troubleshooting: If the dash LED does not flash, systematically re-check each step: wire identification, ground connection, and timing of ignition switch position.
• Professional Help: If you encounter difficulties or are uncomfortable performing these steps, it’s always best to consult a professional automotive technician or your local Dodge dealership for assistance.

By following these detailed steps, you should be able to successfully program your Dodge Viper key fob and restore the convenience of remote locking and unlocking. Enjoy the enhanced security and ease of access to your iconic vehicle!