Mechanic Wiki: How to Program a 2011-2022 Chrysler 300 Proximity Key (DIY & Pro Options)

Learn how to program a Chrysler 300 proximity key yourself with two working keys. Includes troubleshooting, costs, and when to call a locksmith or dealer.

Last Updated: June 21, 2026

Quick Answer: How to Program a 2011-2022 Chrysler 300 Proximity Key

If you have two already working Chrysler 300 proximity keys, you can program a third key yourself in under two minutes using a simple ignition cycle sequence. The process requires no special tools—just both working keys, the new key, and a good battery in each fob. However, if you have zero or only one working key, you cannot use the DIY method; you’ll need a dealership or an automotive locksmith with a professional diagnostic tool to program the new key.

What You’ll Need Before Starting

Before diving into the programming steps, take five minutes to prepare. Rushing this step is the number one reason DIY programming fails.

Two already programmed Chrysler 300 proximity keys – These must be keys that currently lock, unlock, and start your vehicle.
One new, unprogrammed proximity key – Make sure it’s the correct FCC ID for your model year (check the back of your original key for the number).
A fresh CR2032 battery – Install this in the new key before you begin. Even if the key came with a battery, replace it with a brand-new one. A weak battery is the most common cause of the "Fob Not Detected" error.
Your vehicle in Park, engine off, all doors closed – Sit in the driver’s seat with all three keys within easy reach.

Pro tip: If your 2019–2022 Chrysler 300 has been serviced by a dealer recently, the two-key DIY procedure may have been disabled as part of a security update. Check your owner’s manual or try the steps below—if you get no response after two attempts, you likely need a scan tool.

DIY Programming Method: Using Two Working Keys

This method works reliably on most 2011–2018 Chrysler 300 models. For 2019–2022, it still works on many vehicles unless a dealer security patch has been applied. The entire procedure takes about 90 seconds, and timing is critical.

Step 1: Enter Programming Mode with Key #1

Take your first working proximity key and hold it against the START/STOP button on the dashboard. Press the button firmly with the key. The ignition will switch to RUN mode (all dashboard lights come on, but the engine does not start). Wait 3–5 seconds, then press the START/STOP button again to turn the ignition OFF.

Step 2: Repeat with Key #2

Immediately grab your second working proximity key and repeat the same process: press it against the START/STOP button to turn the ignition to RUN, wait 3–5 seconds, then press it to turn the ignition OFF.

Step 3: Confirm the Vehicle Is in Programming Mode

After cycling the second key, the instrument cluster should display a message like "Memory System #1 Programmed" or you’ll hear a single chime. In some models, the hazard lights flash once. This confirms the vehicle is now in Customer Memory programming mode. You have 60 seconds from this point to complete the next step.

Step 4: Program the New Key

Within those 60 seconds, take your new unprogrammed key. Press it against the START/STOP button to turn the ignition to RUN. Hold it there for a full 5 seconds (some owners recommend 10 seconds for peace of mind). Then press the button again to turn the ignition OFF.

Step 5: Test Everything

Remove the new key from the vehicle, close the door, and walk away. Try locking and unlocking the doors using the proximity handle. Then get back in and press the START/STOP button to start the engine. If both functions work, congratulations—you’ve successfully programmed your new key.

Troubleshooting Common Programming Failures

Even experienced DIYers run into issues. Here’s what to check when things don’t go as planned.

"Timed Out" or No Response

Cause: You took longer than 60 seconds between steps. Fix: Wait 10 seconds with all keys out of the car. Then start the entire procedure from Step 1. Do not skip ahead.

Instrument Cluster Says "Fob Not Detected"

Cause: Weak battery in the new key, or the working keys also have low batteries. Fix: Replace the CR2032 battery in the new key with a brand-new one. If the working keys are original from 2011–2015, consider replacing their batteries too—they may have enough juice to start the car but not enough to stay in programming mode.

Hazard Lights Flash Once, But Key Won't Start the Car

Cause: The key was recognized by the body control module (BCM) but not fully linked to the immobilizer. Fix: Try the procedure again, but in Step 4, hold the new key against the START/STOP button for a full 10 seconds instead of 5. If it still fails, you’ll need a professional scan tool to finalize the immobilizer pairing.

No Response After 5 Attempts

Cause: The vehicle’s security system has entered a lockout mode after repeated failed programming attempts. Fix: Disconnect the negative battery terminal of your car for 10 minutes. Reconnect it, wait for the system to reboot, and try the procedure again. If it fails once more, schedule an appointment with a dealership or locksmith.

My 2020–2022 Key Won’t Program at All

This is a known issue on late-model Chrysler 300s. FCA (now Stellantis) updated the security software on some 2019+ vehicles, disabling the two-key DIY method. If you’ve tried three times with no success, your vehicle likely requires a WiTECH or equivalent dealership scan tool. This is not a user-serviceable situation.

When DIY Fails: Professional Programming Options

You have three main options if the DIY method doesn’t work or if you need to program a key from scratch (zero or one working key).

Dealership Programming

Cost: $100–$200 for labor, plus the cost of the key fob ($150–$300 for OEM)
Pros: Guaranteed to work; they can retrieve your 4-digit PIN from the VIN if needed.
Cons: Higher cost, and you may need to schedule an appointment days in advance.

Automotive Locksmith

Cost: $60–$150 for programming labor, plus $40–$80 for an aftermarket key fob
Pros: Cheaper than the dealer, often mobile (they come to you).
Cons: Not all locksmiths have the equipment to program Chrysler proximity keys. Ask ahead: confirm they have a Smart Key programmer capable of 2011+ Chrysler CAN bus systems.

Using Your Own Diagnostic Tool

If you own an advanced scan tool like an Autel MaxiIM, Foxwell NT520, or Launch X431, you can program a blank key directly without needing two working keys. The tool will guide you through the process, but you’ll need the vehicle’s 4-digit PIN code. Some tools can calculate this from the VIN; others require you to retrieve the PIN from the dealer. For a detailed walkthrough, check out our guide on using an Autel to program Chrysler smart keys.

FAQ: Programming a 2011-2022 Chrysler 300 Proximity Key

Can I program a Chrysler 300 proximity key without two working keys?

No. The in-vehicle DIY "Customer Learning" feature requires two already-programmed keys to initiate programming mode. If you have zero or one key, you must use a professional diagnostic tool.

Why won't my Chrysler 300 recognize my new aftermarket key fob?

This is common with non-OEM keys. The FCC ID and chip frequency must match your vehicle exactly (e.g., 433MHz vs 315MHz). Even with matching specs, aftermarket keys often fail to sync during the DIY procedure and may require a locksmith to force-program the immobilizer.

How long does the programming procedure take?

If done correctly with all three keys ready, the entire process takes less than 2 minutes. Most failures occur because of timing delays.

My 2020 Chrysler 300 proximity key won't program. Is there a difference?

Yes. 2019+ models have updated security software. Many 2020–2022 Chrysler 300s require the use of a dealership-grade scan tool (WiTECH or equivalent) because the standard two-key procedure has been disabled for security updates. Check your owner's manual.

How much does it cost to program a Chrysler 300 proximity key at a locksmith?

Expect to pay between $60 and $150 for programming labor. The key fob itself costs $40–$80 (aftermarket) or $150–$300 (OEM dealer part).

Can a dead battery in my key fob prevent programming?

Yes, absolutely. A weak or dead battery (CR2032) will cause the vehicle to fail to detect the key during the procedure. Always install a fresh battery in the new fob before starting.

After programming, my key works to lock/unlock but the proximity “touch” handle doesn't work.

This usually means the key is programmed to the ignition but not to the body control module (BCM) for the door handles. Try programming again, ensuring you hold the key to the START/STOP button for a full 10 seconds in the final step. If it fails, a dealer scan is required to link the key to the BCM.

About the Author: Erwin Salarda is an Automotive Service Equipment Technician based in the Philippines, specializing in computerized automotive diagnostic equipment such as OBD scanners and wheel alignment systems. Since 2012, he has been actively providing technical support, equipment installation, troubleshooting, after-sales service, and hands-on training for automotive service equipment used by workshops and automotive professionals.

He has received specialized training from international suppliers and manufacturers, including Launch X431 in Shenzhen, China, Lawrence Engineering Company in Guangzhou, China, and 3Excel Wheel Alignment Company in Shenzhen, China. Through these trainings, he developed advanced expertise in automotive diagnostics, calibration, wheel alignment systems, and computerized automotive service technologies.

Erwin Salarda provides professional after-sales support and technical training for automotive diagnostic and wheel alignment equipment, helping clients maximize the performance and proper use of their tools and systems. His experience covers equipment setup, software updates, calibration procedures, troubleshooting, and operational guidance for automotive workshops and service centers.

With more than a decade of experience in the automotive equipment industry, Erwin Salarda continues to support automotive businesses by delivering reliable technical expertise and practical training solutions.

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