Ram 1500/2500/3500: A Word About Your Keys

Your vehicle uses either a key start ignition system or keyless ignition system. The key start ignition system consists of a either a bladed key with an immobilizer chip in it, or a Key Fob with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and an Ignition Node Module (IGNM). The keyless ignition system consists of a Key Fob with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and a Keyless Ignition Node (KIN).

Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)

The Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) 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.

NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with Keyless Enter- N-Go, the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) will display the ignition switch position (OFF/ ACC/RUN). Refer to "Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) - If Equipped" in "Understanding Your Instrument Panel" for further information.

Wireless Ignition Node (WIN)

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

Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) - If Equipped

This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button, as long as the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is in the passenger compartment.

The Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) has four operating positions, three of which are labeled and will illuminate when in position. The three positions are OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The fourth position is START, during start RUN will illuminate.

NOTE: In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the RKE transmitter (Key Fob) may have a low or dead battery. In this situation a back up 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 ENGINE START/STOP button and push to operate the ignition switch.

Keyless Ignition Node (KIN)

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

Key Fob

WIN Key Fob - If Equipped

The 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.

It also contains the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and an emergency key, which stores in the rear of the Key Fob.

The emergency key allows for entry into the vehicle should the battery in the vehicle or the RKE transmitter go dead. You can keep the emergency key with you when valet parking.

To remove the emergency key, slide the mechanical latch at the top of the Key Fob sideways with your thumb and then pull the key out with your other hand.

Emergency Key Removal (WIN)

KIN Key Fob - If equipped

This KIN Key Fob allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button, as long as the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is in the passenger compartment. The Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) has four operating positions, three of which are labeled and will illuminate when in position. The three positions are OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The fourth position is START, during start RUN will illuminate. It also contains the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter and an emergency key, which stores in the rear of the Key Fob.

The emergency key allows for entry into the vehicle should the battery in the vehicle or the RKE transmitter go dead. You can keep the emergency key with you when valet parking.

To remove the emergency key, slide the mechanical latch on the backside of the Key Fob sideways with your thumb and then pull the key out with your other hand.

Emergency Key Removal Keyless Enter-N-Go Fob (KIN)

NOTE: You can insert the double-sided emergency key into the lock cylinder with either side up once the Start/Stop button has been removed.

Removing Key Fob From Ignition

Place the shift lever in PARK (if equipped with an automatic transmission). Turn the Key Fob to the OFF position and then remove the Key Fob.

NOTE:

• The power window switches, radio, power sunroof (if equipped), and power outlets will remain active for up to 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position. Opening either front door will cancel this feature. Refer to "Uconnect Settings" (Engine Off Options) in "Understanding Your Instrument Panel" for further information.
• For vehicles not equipped with a touchscreen radio, refer to "Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)/ Settings (Customer-Programmable Features)" in "Understanding Your Instrument Panel" for further information.
• For vehicles equipped with a touchscreen radio, refer to "Uconnect Settings" in "Understanding Your Instrument Panel" for further information.

CAUTION!

• If your vehicle battery becomes low or dead, your Key Fob will become locked in the ignition.
• Do not attempt to remove the Key Fob while in this condition, damage could occur to the Key Fob or ignition module. Only remove the emergency key for locking and unlocking the doors.
• Leave the Key Fob in the ignition and either:
  • Jump Start the vehicle.
  • Charge the battery.

WARNING!

• Before exiting a vehicle, always apply the parking brake, shift the transmission into PARK, and push ignition button to place ignition in OFF position.

  When leaving the vehicle, always 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 shift lever.
• 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 ACC or ON/RUN mode. 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 build-up may cause serious injury or death.

CAUTION! An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always remove the key from the ignition and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

Opening the driver's door when the Key Fob is in the ignition and the ignition switch position is OFF or ACC, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the Key Fob.

NOTE:

• Keyed Ignition systems will chime in OFF or ACC when the driver door is open.
• "Keyless Ignition systems will chime in ACC or RUN when the driver door is open.
• If equipped with Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), the EVIC will display "Key In Ignition".

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