How to Start a Mitsubishi with a Dead Key Fob
Starting Your Mitsubishi
- But first, if you are still locked outside, click here.
- For video help, click here.
- Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.
Starting a Mitsubishi will depend on whether or not there is an actual Start / Stop button. If there is, continue below.
Push Button Start
Newer Mitsubishi models use a Start / Stop button. With the newest models, built roughly 2018 and later, simply press the the Start / Stop ignition button with the back of the key fob, as shown to the right, while stepping on the brake. The key fob or FAST key will be recognized and the car will start.
We have video help here!
In earlier models, there will be a slot to accept the FAST key fob. It may be inside the glove box (right) or somewhere near the front of the console (below). Early Outlander models are the only ones we are aware of that has a slot in the glove box, although later models also use a slot near the console. See examples below.
In other models, the back up slots will be found somewhere on the dashboard, generally in the vicinity of and in front of the shifter. We did find one model, sold outside North America, the Shogun, where the slot is actually alongside the console, as seen to the right. Wherever the slot is, it will look like a small rectangular opening just the right size for the key fob. You may be using it for business cards or coins! Remove them!
Once found, insert the FAST key fob into the slot. The engine can then be started normally, stepping on the brake while pressing the Start / Stop ignition button. Mitsubishi recommends removing the key fob once the vehicle is started.
Keyless Turn Knob Start
If there is a keyless turn knob, on the steering column, it is a three step process however. Start by slipping the back end of the mechanical or emergency key into the FAST key fob. It will then look like the illustration and the feel of a more traditional ignition key (right).
This assembled key will be needed to turn the ignition switch, which is hiding under the turn knob on the steering column. When the key elements are assembled, the transponder is close enough to the switch’s antenna module to be recognized. The module supplies the power when the key’s battery is discharged.
Remove the ignition knob cover (above right) by pushing the lock release buttons on the each side. Then insert the emergency key into the now exposed lock cylinder (right). The vehicle can now be started in a traditional key-start manner by pushing, then turning the key. See the illustrations.
Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text 
message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.
… Return to Part I, Getting In
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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY