How to Program a Ram Key Fob (DIY, Dealer, or Locksmith)

Ram became its own brand in 2010, but its key systems still come from the Chrysler Sentry Key family shared with Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler. Across the last two decades Ram trucks used three main key styles: a remote head key, a push-button smart key on higher trims, and a flip key on the current 1500. The ProMaster van, built on a Fiat platform, uses its own system.

Here is how to work out which Ram key you have and what it takes to program it.

Ram key types by truck generation

Ram trucks from about 2018 on also have a Security Gateway Module (SGW) between the OBD2 port and the vehicle network. Programming tools must be authorized or use an SGW bypass to add keys.

What you need

• A matching key or fob. Check the FCC ID and part number. Ram remote head keys for 2009-2012 and 2013-2018 trucks can differ even when they look the same.
• A fresh CR2032. Most Ram remote head keys, flip keys and smart keys use one.
• The vehicle PIN if you use your own programmer, or proof of ownership for a locksmith or dealer.
• A cut blade for remote head and flip keys.

Ram key fob programming instructions for older Dodge Ram trucks

Many Dodge Ram trucks with Sentry Key up to about 2008 support a customer learn procedure when you already have two programmed keys. The steps match other Chrysler-family vehicles of that era:

1. Insert the first working key, turn to ON for at least 3 seconds but less than about 15, then OFF.
2. Within about 15 seconds, insert the second working key and turn to ON. Wait for a chime and a flashing security light (about 10 seconds).
3. Turn OFF, and within about 60 seconds insert the new cut key and turn to ON.
4. After about 10 seconds a chime sounds and the security light comes on for about 3 seconds, then goes out. The key is programmed.

Some trucks have the feature disabled. With only one working key, the truck needs a tool. Our Dodge key fob programming guide covers the same Sentry Key generations on Dodge cars and vans.

Programming a Ram 1500 key fob with a tool

For 2009 and newer Ram trucks, programming normally runs through the OBD2 port:

1. Connect a key programmer with Ram coverage. On 2018 and newer trucks, connect through an authorized login or an SGW bypass cable.
2. Choose immobilizer, then “Add key” or “All keys lost,” and let the tool read or accept the four-digit PIN.
3. Insert the new remote head or flip key in the ignition, or hold the smart key where the tool says, usually against the start button.
4. Confirm the tool reports success. On remote head keys the remote is often learned with the key, but some trucks need a separate remote learn step in the tool.
5. Test start, lock, unlock, panic and any remote start or tailgate buttons.

Owners who maintain several trucks sometimes buy a tool for this. Check our best OBD2 scanners for Ram trucks and the general guide to programming a key fob with an OBD2 scanner.

Ram ProMaster key fob programming

The ProMaster is based on the Fiat Ducato, so its immobilizer lives in the body computer rather than a Chrysler-style RFHub. Programming needs a tool with ProMaster coverage and the PIN, or a locksmith or dealer. Fleet owners often find a mobile locksmith the most practical route because the van does not need to be towed. See our guide to mobile key fob programming.

Model notes: 2012, 2016 and 2019 Ram

• 2012 Ram 1500: remote head key; locksmith tools handle it routinely.
• 2016 Ram 1500: remote head key on most trims, smart key on Laramie and above.
• 2019 Ram 1500 (new body): flip key or smart key with SGW. Ram 1500 Classic models from 2019 on keep the remote head key.
• Heavy Duty trucks: similar to the 1500 of the same era; check the FCC ID because HD trucks may have extra buttons.

Choosing the right Ram fob

Ram fobs vary more than most because of factory options. Before buying, compare your original for:

• Remote start: a remote start button only works on trucks with factory remote start.
• Tailgate and air suspension buttons: found on some 1500 and Heavy Duty trims.
• Key style: remote head key, flip key or smart key must match the ignition type.
• FCC ID and part number: printed on the back or inside the fob. Ram used multiple versions of similar-looking fobs.

Give your VIN to the locksmith or dealer before ordering. They can confirm the correct part and whether your truck has the Security Gateway that affects programming time and price.

If Ram key fob programming fails

• Tool shows no communication or access denied: SGW is blocking it, or the wrong vehicle was selected.
• PIN rejected: confirm it with the dealer using your VIN.
• Key starts the truck but buttons do nothing: run the remote learn step or check the battery.
• Customer learn has no chime: the feature is disabled or one key is not programmed.

Ram key fob programming cost

For more detail on quotes, see our key fob programming cost guide and the main guide on how to program a key fob.

Frequently Asked Questions