TextHow Eclipse Keys Changed Over the Years
Transponder Key, No Remote
This is where Mitsubishi's Anti-Theft System started on the Eclipse. Your key has a Texas Instruments 4D60 chip embedded in the head, and there is no remote or buttons at all. It looks like a regular key, but without that chip talking to the antenna around your ignition switch, the car will not start.
Remote Head Key with Buttons
Mitsubishi upgraded to a remote head key with three buttons for lock, unlock, and trunk. The chip moved to a Texas Instruments 4D61, and the key uses a CR2032 battery to power the remote functions. Same standard blade, but now your key does double duty as both your starter and your remote.
Transponder-Only Variant
Some Eclipse models in this range came with a transponder-only key using a Texas Instruments 4D61 chip with an N Stamp designation. No buttons, no remote, just a standard blade with the chip inside. This variant shares its platform with the Chrysler Sebring Coupe, which is why the key profiles look so similar.
Which Key Does Your Eclipse Use?
A plain-looking key with no buttons and no battery. The transponder chip is hidden inside the plastic head, and it communicates with your ignition antenna every time you turn the key.
This key has three buttons built into the head for lock, unlock, and trunk. The transponder chip and remote electronics are all in one unit, so you only carry one piece.
Looks identical to the earlier transponder key, but uses an updated 4D61 chip. No remote functions. If your Eclipse in this range has no buttons on the key, this is what you have.
How Much Does a Mitsubishi Eclipse Key Cost?
Every price includes the key blank, cutting, transponder programming, and testing at your location.
EZ Car Keyz vs. the Dealer
We carry the same diagnostic tools the dealer uses. The difference is we bring them to your driveway for less.
Skip the Dealer - Call (805) 790-8162Common Eclipse Key Problems
Key Memory Deletion on Programming
The Eclipse immobilizer erases every key the moment a new one is programmed. By design. Every existing key needs to be present at the vehicle during programming or the old ones are useless. We confirm key count before starting.
Immobilizer ECU Linked to Engine Management
Before we touch a 2005-2007 Eclipse no-start: check whether the immobilizer ECU or engine management ECU was recently swapped. On these models they are linked. Swap one without the other and the whole system needs re-pairing with the key antenna.
Fault Codes Must Be Cleared Post-Programming
Eclipse starts fine after new keys but the security light or check engine light stays on. Programming sets fault codes; without clearing them you get warning lights or intermittent immobilizer issues. We clear all codes as part of every job.
Remote Fob Programming Time Sensitivity
Owners assume the 2005-2007 Eclipse remote is defective when it will not program. The real problem is timing. The procedure has 30-second to one-minute windows; missing by seconds kills the sequence. Top reason DIY remote programming fails.
Can You Program an Eclipse Key Yourself?
No self-programming option exists for the transponder chip on these years. You need professional diagnostic equipment to write the 4D60 chip to the immobilizer. Remote-only programming is possible on 2000-2003 models using a DLC jumper and hazard switch method, but that only programs the keyless entry, not the transponder.
The transponder chip requires professional tools. You may be able to program the remote buttons yourself using an ignition key method if you have a working key, but the actual immobilizer programming that lets the car start needs a diagnostic scanner.
Same story as the other transponder keys. The 4D61 N Stamp chip must be programmed with professional equipment. No shortcut exists for this one.
How It Works
Call or Text Us
Reach us at (805) 790-8162. Tell us your exact Eclipse year and what happened.
We Drive to You
Wherever you are in Ventura County, from Camarillo to Moorpark, we come to your location.
Cut and Program Your Key
We cut your new Eclipse key on-site and program the Texas Instruments transponder chip to your immobilizer using our Autel IM608 or VVDI Key Tool Plus.
Related Services
Did You Know?
Most people do not know this: the Mitsubishi Eclipse Anti-Theft System can store up to 8 keys in memory on early models, or 4 keys on the later CAN-based systems. But here is the catch. Programming any new key instantly deletes every previously programmed key from the system, which means all of your keys have to be physically present at the vehicle during service. It was one of the more restrictive immobilizer designs of its era.
KEY REPLACEMENT ACROSS ALL OF VENTURA COUNTY
We come to you, anywhere in Ventura County. No shop visit, no towing. Our mobile locksmith arrives at your home, office, or roadside.
Mitsubishi Key Programming
Watch a Mitsubishi proximity fob get synced at the owner's home.
Mitsubishi Key Service Call Now
Outlander, Eclipse Cross, Mirage. Mitsubishi keys across Ventura County.
