2023 RAM 1500 Classic Keys and Smart Key

In the constantly changing world of car technology, the 2023 RAM 1500 Classic combines the traditional use of keys with the ease of a smart key system. This pickup truck is a nice mix of the old and the new. It comes with both traditional keys and smart keys to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. With the smart key system, you only need to be close to the car and touch it to open the door and start the engine. The smart merging of the smart key system not only makes the car easier to use but also makes it harder for unauthorized people to get into the car. Even though the 2023 RAM 1500 Classic takes advantage of the benefits of new technology, it stays rooted in the reliability and comfort of traditional keys. This promises a driving experience that is both familiar and new.

KEYS

KEY FOBS

Your vehicle may be equipped with a standard ignition key fob or a keyless ignition key fob. The standard ignition key fob operates the ignition switch. Insert the square end of the key fob into the ignition switch located on the instrument panel and rotate to the desired position. The key fob also contains an emergency key, which is stored in the rear of the key fob.

1. Panic Button
2. Unlock Button
3. Lock Button
4. Remote Start Button
5. Emergency Key Location

Your vehicle may be equipped with a key fob which supports Passive Entry, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ (if equipped), and Remote Start (if equipped). The key fob allows you to lock or unlock all doors and tailgate from distances up to approximately 66 ft (20 m). The key fob does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. The key fob also contains an emergency key, which is stored in the rear of the key fob.

NOTE

• The key fob’s wireless signal may be blocked if the key fob is located next to a mobile phone, laptop, or other electronic device. This may result in poor performance.
• With the ignition in the ON position and the vehicle moving at 2 mph (4 km/h), all RKE commands are disabled.

1. Unlock
2. Lock
3. Remote Start
4. Panic Button
5. Emergency Key

NOTE

• In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the key fob may have a low or fully depleted battery. A low key fob battery can be verified by referring to the instrument cluster, which will display a procedure to follow.
• Inserting the key fob with integrated key into the ignition switch disables the system from responding to any button pushes from that key fob. Driving at speeds 5 mph (8 km/h) and above disables the system from responding to all key fob buttons for all key fobs.

To Lock/Unlock The Doors And Tailgate

All doors can be programmed to either unlock on the first push of the unlock button, or for the first push to unlockonly the driver’s door, then twice within five seconds to unlock all doors and tailgate. To lock all the doors and the tailgate, push the lock button once.

When the doors are unlocked, the turn signals will flash and the illuminated entry system will be activated. When the doors are locked, the turn signals will flash and the horn will chirp. The horn chirp when the lock button is pushed can be programmed on/off within Uconnect Settings.

Key Left Vehicle Feature

If a valid key fob is no longer detected inside the vehicle while the vehicle’s ignition system is in the ON/RUN or START position, the message “Key Fob Has Left The Vehicle” will be shown in the instrument cluster display along with an interior chime. An exterior audible and visual alert will also be activated to warn the driver. The vehicle’s horn will rapidly chirp three times along with a single flash of the vehicle’s exterior lights.

NOTE

• The doors have to be open and then closed in order for the vehicle to detect a key fob; the Key Left Vehicle feature will not activate until all of the doors are closed.
• These alerts will not be activated in situations where either the vehicle’s engine is left running with the key fob inside, or the key fob’s wireless signals are blocked.

Using The Panic Feature

To turn the Panic feature on or off, push the Panic button on the key fob. When the Panic feature is activated, the turn signals will flash, the horn may pulse on and off (if equipped with horn alarm), and the interior lights will turn on. The Panic feature will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by either pushing the Panic button a second time or drive the vehicle at a speed of 15 mph (24 km/h) or greater.

NOTE

• The interior lights will turn off if you place the ignition in the ON/RUN position while the Panic feature is activated. However, the exterior lights and horn (if equipped with horn alarm) will remain on.
• You may need to be closer than 66 ft (20 m) from the vehicle when using the key fob to turn off the Panic feature due to the radio frequency noises emitted by the system.

Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob

• The replacement battery is one CR2032 battery.

NOTE

• Customers are recommended to use a battery obtained from Mopar®. Aftermarket coin battery dimensions may not meet the original OEM coin battery dimensions.
• Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate for further information.
• Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board.

1. Remove the emergency key by sliding the emergency key release (1) on the front of the standard ignition key fob, or on the back of the keyless ignition key fob, sideways, and pulling the emergency key (2) out with your other hand.
   1. Emergency Key Release
   2. Emergency Key
      1. Emergency Key Release
      2. Emergency Key
2. Gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Make sure not to damage the seal during removal.
3. Remove the battery by turning the back cover over (battery facing downward) and tapping it lightly on a solid surface such as a table or similar, then replace the battery. When replacing the battery, match the (+) sign on the battery to the (+) sign on the inside of the battery clip, located on the back cover. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
4. To assemble the key fob case, snap the two halves together.

WARNING

• The integrated key fob contains a coin cell battery. Do not ingest the battery; there is a chemical burn hazard. If the coin cell battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just two hours and can lead to death.
• If you think a battery may have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek immediate medical attention.
• Keep new and used batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children.

Programming And Requesting Additional Key Fobs

• Programming the key fob may be performed by an authorized dealer.

NOTE

• Once a key fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be repurposed and reprogrammed to another vehicle.
• Only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.

WARNING

• Always remove the key fobs from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
• For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition, always remember to place the ignition in the OFF position when exiting the vehicle.

Duplication of key fobs may be performed at an authorized dealer. This procedure consists of programming a blank key fob to the vehicle electronics. A blank key fob is one that has never been programmed.

NOTE

• When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer system serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.
• Keys must be ordered to the correct key cut to match the vehicle locks.
• It is not mandatory to replace the key fob if a new emergency key is needed, and vice versa.

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry Key Immobilizer system prevents unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked. The system uses a key fob, keyless push button ignition and a Radio Frequency (RF) receiver to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system cannot reprogram a key fob obtained from another vehicle.

After placing the ignition in the ON/RUN position, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone attempted to start the engine with an invalid key fob. In the event that a valid key fob is used to start the engine but there is an issue with the vehicle electronics, the engine will start and shut off after two seconds. If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible by an authorized dealer.

CAUTION: The Sentry Key Immobilizer system is not compatible with some aftermarket Remote Start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.

All of the key fobs provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

NOTE: A key fob that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key.

IGNITION SWITCH

IGNITION NODE MODULE (IGNM) — IF EQUIPPED

The Ignition Node Module (IGNM) operates similar to an ignition switch. It has four operating positions, three with detents and one that is spring-loaded. The detent positions are OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The START position is a spring-loaded momentary contact position. When released from the START position, the switch automatically returns to the ON/RUN position.

1. OFF
2. ACC (Accessory)
3. ON/RUN
4. START

WARNING

• Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a complete stop, then shift the automatic transmission into PARK, apply the parking brake, place the engine in the OFF position, remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock your vehicle. If equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™, always make sure the keyless ignitionis in OFF position, remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock the vehicle.
• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
• Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Children should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector.
• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped with KeylessEnter ‘n Go™ in the ON/RUN position. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
• Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause serious injury or death.

CAUTION: An unlocked vehicle is an invitation for thieves. Always remove key fob from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

NOTE

• For more information on normal starting.
• Keyed ignition systems will chime in the OFF or ACC position when the driver door is open.
• In addition to the chime, the message “Key In Ignition” will display in the cluster.

KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION — IF EQUIPPED

This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button as long as the key fob is in the passenger compartment. The START/STOP ignition button has several operating modes that are labeled and will illuminate when in position. These modes are OFF, ACC, ON/RUN, and START.

1. OFF
2. ACC (Accessory)
3. ON/RUN

The push button ignition can be placed in the following modes:

• OFF
  • The engine is stopped
  • Some electrical devices (e.g. power locks, alarm, etc.) are still available
• ACC
  • Engine is not started
  • Some electrical devices are available (e.g. power sunroof, power windows, etc.)
• ON/RUN
  • Driving position
  • All electrical devices are available (e.g. climate controls, heated seats, etc.)
• START
  • The engine will start (when foot is on the brake)

NOTE

If the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the key fob may have a low battery. In this situation, a backup method can be used to operate the ignition switch. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emergency key) of the key fob against the START/STOP ignition button and push to operate the ignition switch.

WARNING

• Before exiting a vehicle, always come to a complete stop, then shift the automatic transmission into PARK, apply the parking brake, place the engine in the OFF position, remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock your vehicle. If equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™, always make sure the keyless ignition is in OFF position, remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock the vehicle.
• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
• Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Children should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector.
• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the ignition of a vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ in the ON/RUN position. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
• Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehiclesin hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause serious injury or death.

CAUTION: An unlocked vehicle is an invitation for thieves. Always remove key fob from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

NOTE

• For more information on normal starting.
• Keyed ignition systems will chime in OFF or ACC when the driver door is open.
• Keyless ignition systems will chime in the ACC or ON/RUN position when the driver door is open.
• In addition to the chime, the message “Key In Ignition” will display in the cluster.

REMOTE START

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED

This system uses the key fob to start the engine conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of approximately 300 ft (91 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather, and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the driver enters the vehicle.

NOTE: Obstructions between the vehicle and the key fob may reduce this range.

WARNING

• Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
• Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.

HOW TO USE REMOTE START

Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fobtwice within five seconds. The vehicle doors will lock, the parking lights will flash, and the horn will chirp twice (if programmed). Then, the engine will start, and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15 minute cycle. Pushing the Remote Start button a third time shuts the engine off.

NOTE

• With Remote Start, the engine will only run for 15 minutes.
• Remote Start can only be used twice.
• If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
• The parking lights will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
• For security, power window and power sunroof operation (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
• The ignition must be placed in the ON/RUN position before the Remote Start sequence can be repeated for a third cycle.

All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will Remote Start:

• Gear selector in PARK
• Doors closed
• Hood closed
• Hazard switch off
• Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
• Battery at an acceptable charge level
• Panic button not pushed
• Fuel meets minimum requirement
• System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
• Vehicle Security system not active
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is not illuminated
• Ignition in OFF position

WARNING

• Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
• Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.

TO EXIT REMOTE START MODE

To drive the vehicle after starting the Remote Start system, push and release the START/STOP ignition button while pressing the brake pedal prior to the end of the 15 minute cycle. If the vehicle is not equipped with a START/STOP ignition button, insert the key fob into the ignition switch and place the ignition in the ON/RUN position. The Remote Start system will turn the engine off if the Remote Start button on the key fob is pushed again, or if the engine is allowed to run for the entire 15 minute cycle. Once the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume the previously set operations (temperature, blower control, etc.).

NOTE

• To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will disable for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.
• For vehicles equipped with the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ — Passive Entry feature, the message “Remote Start Active — Push Start Button” will display in the instrument cluster display until you push the START/STOP ignition button.

REMOTE START FRONT DEFROST ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is active, and the outside ambient temperature is 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the system will automatically activate front defrost for 15 minutes or less. The timing is dependent on the ambient temperature. Once the timer expires, the system will automatically adjust the settings depending on ambient conditions. See “Remote Start Comfort Systems — If Equipped” in the next section for detailed operation. For vehicles equipped with the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ — Passive Entry feature, the message “Remote Start Active — Push Start Button” will display in the instrument cluster display until you push the START/STOP ignition button.

REMOTE START COMFORT SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is activated, the front and rear defrost will automatically turn on in cold weather. The heated steering wheel and driver heated seat feature will turn on if programmed in the Comfort menu screen within Uconnect Settings. In warm weather, the driver vented seat feature will automatically turn on when the Remote Start is activated and is programmed in the Comfort menu screen. The vehicle will adjust the climate control settings depending on the outside ambient temperature.

Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) — If Equipped

The climate controls automatically adjust to an optimal temperature and mode, dependent on the outside ambient temperature. When the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume their previous settings.

Manual Temperature Control (MTC) — If Equipped

• In ambient temperatures of 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the climate settings will default to maximum heat, with fresh air entering the cabin. If the front defrost timer expires, the vehicle will enter Mix Mode.
• In ambient temperatures from 40°F (4.5°C) to 78°F (26°C), the climate settings will be based on the last settings selected by the driver.
• In ambient temperatures of 78°F (26°C) or above, the climate settings will default to MAX A/C, Bi-Level mode, with Recirculation on.

For more information on ATC, MTC, and climate control settings.

NOTE: These features will stay on through the duration of Remote Start, or until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position. The climate control settings will change, and exit the automatic defaults, if manually adjusted by the driver while the vehicle is in Remote Start mode. This includes turning the climate controls off using the OFF button.

REMOTE START WINDSHIELD WIPER DE-ICER ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is active and the outside ambient temperature is less than 33°F (0.6°C), the Windshield Wiper De-Icer will activate. Exiting Remote Start will resume its previous operation. If the Windshield Wiper De-Icer was active, the timer and operation will continue.

REMOTE START ABORT MESSAGE

One of the following messages will display in the instrument cluster display if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits Remote Start prematurely:

• Remote Start Canceled — Door Open
• Remote Start Canceled — Hood Open
• Remote Start Canceled — Fuel Low
• Remote Start Canceled — System Fault
• Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle to Reset

The message will stay active until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.

FAQ