Chrysler key fobs are designed for convenience, offering remote access to your vehicle’s features. Many owners, particularly in Europe, may notice a sixth button on their key fob that seems inactive. This raises questions about its purpose and whether it can be programmed to function. This article delves into the mystery of the sixth button on Chrysler key fobs and guides you on how to program your Chrysler key fob for available features.
Understanding the 6th Button Mystery on Chrysler Key Fobs
You might have observed that your Chrysler key fob appears to have six button positions, even if only five are functional. Often, there’s a microswitch for a sixth button on the internal circuit board (PCB) of standard 5-button fobs. This discovery has led some to experiment with enabling this potentially hidden feature, often assumed to be a ‘panic’ button.
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However, simply having the physical button and switch isn’t enough. The crucial missing component in many European or UK Chrysler key fobs is a ‘conductive tracked membrane’. This membrane, located between the PCB and the fob shell, translates your button presses into electronic signals. For the sixth button to work, this membrane needs to have the conductive track that corresponds to the sixth micro-switch. Without this, even if you install a 6-button key fob case, the sixth button will remain unresponsive.
Exploring Solutions for a Functional 6th Button
If you’re keen on having a fully functional sixth button, sourcing the correct conductive membrane for European fobs might prove difficult. A more practical approach, as suggested by enthusiasts, is to acquire a complete 6-button key fob from the American market. These fobs are designed to fully utilize all six buttons, including the ‘panic’ function.
By obtaining a 6-button fob from the US, you can potentially transfer the internal PCB from your existing European fob into the American 6-button fob case. Crucially, the American fob should include the complete conductive membrane with the sixth track. This swap could enable the functionality of all six buttons, assuming your vehicle’s system supports the ‘panic’ or other potential function associated with the sixth button.
How to Program Your Chrysler Key Fob
While enabling the 6th button might require hardware modifications, basic Chrysler key fob programming for standard functions is generally straightforward. Programming instructions vary depending on your specific Chrysler model and year. A valuable resource for programming instructions is often available online, offering guides for various Chrysler vehicles.
Programming instructions are available here.
Before attempting any programming, always consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate and vehicle-specific instructions. Typically, key fob programming involves a sequence of actions using your vehicle’s ignition and doors to enter programming mode and synchronize your key fob with the car’s system.
In Conclusion
Unlocking the potential of a seemingly dormant sixth button on your Chrysler key fob might involve a bit of resourceful hardware swapping. However, for basic key fob functions, programming your Chrysler key fob is usually a user-friendly process. By understanding the components of your key fob and utilizing available programming resources, you can ensure your remote operates seamlessly with your Chrysler vehicle.
