2021 RAM 1500 Keys and Smart Key Guidelines (2024)

With its advanced key and smart key technology, the 2021 RAM 1500 brings together ease and safety in a way that’s never been done before. Smart key systems and traditional keys cohabit, giving drivers the freedom to choose how they want to get into and start their cars. The smart key system, which is the pinnacle of technology, makes driving better by letting you get in without a key, start the car with the push of a button, and use features from a distance. This complex relationship between the car and the key makes it easy to use and safe at the same time. It also has features like remote start and smartphone integration. Whether you choose the comfort of standard keys or the futuristic appeal of smart keys, the 2021 RAM 1500’s keys show that the company is committed to improving comfort and safety for both drivers and passengers.

KEYS

KEY FOB

Your vehicle is 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, tailgate, and the RamBox (if equipped) as well as activate the Panic Alarm 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.
• If your vehicle is equipped with a Wireless Charging Pad, the key fob may not be detected if it is placed within 6 inches (15 cm) of the pad.
• With the ignition in the ON position and the vehicle moving at 2 mph (4 km/h), all RKE commands are disabled.

1. LED Indicator Light
2. Unlock
3. Tailgate Lowering (If Equipped)
4. Air Suspension Remote Lowering (If Equipped)
5. Lock
6. Remote Start (If Equipped)
7. Panic
8. Emergency Key

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 display, which will display directions to follow.
NOTE: A low key fob battery condition may be indicated by a message in the instrument cluster display, or by the LED light on the key fob. If the LED key fob light no longer illuminates from key fob button pushes, then the key fob battery requires replacement.

To Lock/Unlock The Doors And Tailgate
Push and release the unlock button on the key fob once to unlock the driver’s door, or, twice within five seconds to unlock all doors, the tailgate and the RamBox (if equipped). 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. All doors can be programmed to unlock on the first push of the unlock button. The horn chirp when the lock button is pushed can be programmed on/off within Uconnect Settings.

Air Suspension (Remote Lowering Of The Vehicle) — If Equipped

For easy entry and loading, your vehicle can be lowered by pushing the key fob air suspension lowering button two times. When air suspension lowering is requested using the key fob, the vehicle will send a series of chirps and flashes to alert the customer that the operation has begun and will continue these alerts until it successfully lowers. The following conditions must be met for the vehicle to lower remotely:

• The vehicle must not already be in Entry/Exit (Park) ride height.
• The vehicle battery must be fully charged.
• All doors must be closed.
• The key fob must be out of the vehicle.

NOTE: Ensure the vehicle is clear of all objects, pets, and people prior to remote lowering.

Canceling Remote Lowering
Vehicle lowering can be canceled at anytime. When vehicle lowering is canceled, the vehicle will raise up to the next defined level and lock out the remote lowering feature until the ignition has been cycled ON/OFF.

To cancel vehicle lowering, push the key fob air suspension lowering button one time during the lowering process. When vehicle lowering is canceled, the horn will chirp two times and the turn signal lamps will flash four times. Once raising is completed, the horn will chirp one time.
NOTE: More information on air suspension is provided later in this manual.

Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob
The replacement battery model is one CR2450 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.
• Do not replace the coin battery if the LED on the key fob above the top row buttons blinks when a button is pressed. The coin battery should last a minimum of three years with normal vehicle usage.

1. Remove the emergency key (1) by pushing the emergency key release button (2) on the side of the key fob, and pulling the emergency key out with your other hand.
   1. Emergency Key
   2. Emergency Key Release Button
2. Hold the key fob with the button side facing down, and locate the small rectangular gap on the left side between the housing and the back cover of the key fob. Use a small screwdriver (or similar tool) to pry open the left side of the fob cover while applying pressure until the cover snaps open.
3. Next, locate the gap on the right side of the key fob, which is positioned further to the edge than the left side gap. Pry open the right side, and remove the back cover.
4. Remove the battery by using your thumb to slide the battery downward and back toward the key ring.
   NOTE: When replacing the battery, ensure the (+) sign on the battery is facing upward. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
5. Replace the battery by using your thumb to push down and slide the battery under the small lip on the top edge of the opening.
6. To assemble the key fob case, line up the top edge of the back cover with the top of the fob, and press the edges into the interlocking hinges until all edges snap together with no large visual gaps.
7. Reinsert the emergency key until it locks into place.

NOTE: The key fob battery should only be replaced by qualified technicians. If the battery requires replacement, see an authorized dealer.

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. Once a key fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other 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.

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.

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 switch 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 starting 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.

IGNITION SWITCH

KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION
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 the mode by pushing the button, the key fob may have a low or depleted 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!

• When exiting the vehicle, always remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock your 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 Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition 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:

• The key fob may not be detected by the vehicle Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ system if it is located next to a mobile phone, laptop or other electronic device; these devices may block the key fob’s wireless signal and prevent the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ system from starting the vehicle.
• For more information on normal engine starting.
• When opening the driver’s door and the ignition is in the ON/RUN position (engine not running), a chime will sound to remind you to place the ignition in the OFF position. In addition to the chime, the message “Ignition or Accessory ON” will display in the cluster.

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED (GASOLINE)

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 328 ft (100 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the customer enters the vehicle.

NOTE: Obstructions between the vehicle and 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 fob twice 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. To drive the vehicle, push the unlock button, and place the ignition in the ON/RUN position.

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

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.

TO EXIT REMOTE START MODE

To drive the vehicle after a Remote Start, unlock the doors using the key fob or Passive Entry and disarm the Vehicle Security system (if equipped). Then, prior to the end of the 15 minute cycle, press the brake pedal and push and release the START/STOP ignition button.

The Remote Start system will turn the engine offwith another push and release of the Remote Start button on the key fob, or if the engine is allowed to run for the entire 15 minute cycle. Once theignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume the previously setoperations (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.

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

• Remote Start Cancelled — Door Open
• Remote Start Cancelled — Hood Open
• Remote Start Cancelled — Fuel Low
• Remote Start Cancelled — Too Cold
• Remote Start Cancelled — Time Expired
• Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle to Reset

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

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED (DIESEL)

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 328 ft (100 m).

NOTE:

• Obstructions between the vehicle and the key fob may reduce this range.
• The Remote Start system will wait for the Wait To Start indicator light to extinguish before cranking the engine. This allows time for the engine pre-heat cycle to heat the cylinder air, and is normal in cold weather. For further information on the Wait To Start indicator light and the pre-heat cycle.

HOW TO USE REMOTE START
Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob twice 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. To drive the vehicle, push the unlock button, and place the ignition in the ON/RUN position.

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
• Water In Fuel indicator light is not illuminated
• Wait To Start indicator light is not illuminated
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is not illuminated

For additional functions of the Remote Start system.

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.

FAQ