No, the Ridgeline key CANNOT be programmed for our cars. The transponder inside is not compatible with our immobilizer hardware. You need to buy two keys: a normal key that is compatible with our car (or you could cut apart one of your current keys, but I wanted 2 spares, so that's out), and a Ridgeline combo remote key.
Here's a rough outline of what you need to do.
1. Have the Ridgeline key cut. Since you will be disposing of the chip, you do not need to have it programmed. At this point, the key will open your doors but will not start the engine.
1a. This is optional only if you are using your current key, but if you bought a new key to cut apart because you don't want to destroy your current key this step is required. Have your extra Civic key cut AND programmed. Having it cut is optional, but once you take the chip out, it will still open your doors. Put it in your wallet and you'll never get locked out of your car again!
2. Take your programmed Civic key, and cut apart the plastic on the top around the edge. Yes, you have to destroy the key handle to get at the chip, but if you're like me, you got the key on Ebay for 7 bucks. Then, remove the chip from the center of the key, and set it aside in a safe place.
3. Now, take apart the Ridgeline key. There is a little screw right above the keyblade on the back. A 00 phillips screwdriver will take that right out. There is a little compartment inside with a transponder chip in it. Remove the Ridgeline transponder, and glue or otherwise mount the Civic transponder in its place. Make sure to place it so that the antenna (the side where you can see copper colored wire inside) is pointing towards the keyblade.
4. Screw the Ridgeline key together, program the remote, and bingo, you have yourself an all-in-one remote and key combination. For bonus points, grab the back plate from the FD2 Type R key with the red H, and screw that on instead. Now it's convenient AND looks bad ass!
EDIT:
I'm glad to hear it! The trunk button doesn't work on our cars though, because there is no actuator/motor/whatever hardware to open the hatch electronically. You might be able to find a different faceplate to replace it, open it up, and cut the plastic button off inside so that there would be nothing to press the button on the board and make the trunk button disappear. But anyway, I'm glad that your craigslist find payed off. Congrats!
Bookmarks