Buying a Harley-Davidson is a dream come true for so many people – a perfect synthesis of classic American styling and modern V-twin technology. If you have just purchased one for yourself, there are several things you must be learning about the motorcycle, such as how to program a Harley-Davidson key fob.
Fortunately, programming a key fob is pretty simple. This tutorial covers that. With the help of this, you can learn how to program the key step-by-step.
Table of Contents
How to Sync your Key Fob to your new Harley-Davidson?
A key fob is a simple electronic key device that fits in your palm and can be used to lock/unlock a vehicle, along with other additional functions. However, it’s so much more than a regular key. Its smart features make it easier for bikers to use their Harley-Davidson.
5 minutes 5 minutes
To make things easier, I have laid down a few easy steps. With these basic instructions, you can sync your new key fob to your Harley-Davidson in no time.
- Step 1
Start by ensuring that the rocker switch is in the off position.
- Step 2
Now, you must switch the ignition on and off in the following manner:
On – Off – On – Off – On
(So, at the end of this step, your ignition must be switched on.) - Step 3
Next, you must press the left turn signal switch twice and wait for the lights to start blinking in response. Whether they blink once or thrice depends on the bike’s configuration.
- Step 4
Now, click on the right turn signal switch and release after some time. You must wait for signals and indicators to respond by flashing.
- Step 5
Again press the left turn signal switch and release. Wait for the flashes from the signals and indicators.
- Step 6
To program and sync the key fob to the motorbike, press and hold the button on the key fob. You must wait for the motorbike to accept the new key fob. To indicate that the programming is complete, the four-way signal will start flashing simultaneously. Then, you can switch off the ignition key to save the new key fob to your motorcycle’s memory unit.
How Do You Set Your Key Fob’s Alarm Override PIN Code
In newer models, proximity key fobs come with additional security measures. Without the key fob, you can neither switch on your Harley-Davidson nor perform any other functions. You must set your alarm to override PIN code and remember it if something happens to the key fob.
The method to change your pin isn’t that tough. For this, you just need your key fob and the steps of the procedure. Also, check that the battery of your key fob isn’t dead. Note that if you lose your key fob without setting the pin, you won’t be able to start your Harley-Davidson.
Step 1
First, select your 5 digit pin
Step 2
Use your key fob to switch the ignition button on
Step 3
Now, switch on your ignition and ensure the handlebar kill switch is switched off.
Step 4
Switch the handlebar kill switch in the following manner:
On – Off – On – Off – On
Step 5
Switch the left turn signal twice
Step 6
Switch the right turn signal once. The current pin code should flash on the odometer (If you can see the first digit flash you are ready to set your new pin)
Step 7
Using your left and right turn signal, set your new pin. Use your left turn signal to change the first digit that is flashing. Once it’s been set, use your right turn signal to move on to the second digit. Repeat the same method to change all five digits of your pin.
To save the pin you must switch off the handlebar kill switch and the ignition switch before the module rearms.
To clarify, the pin is meant for overriding the security alarm and allowing you to switch on the ignition to the Harley-Davidson motorcycle. However, you can only use the pin only in the absence of the key fob.
How to Program a New Proximity Fob When You Lose Your Old One?
Being an extremely efficient tool, proximity fobs allow you to switch on and off your motorcycle when it’s close to the bike. In its absence, it secures your bike by alerting you if anybody tries to steal it. If you have lost your old key fob and purchased another one, it needs to be reprogrammed to your Harley-Davidson. There are different ways to do that.
Using a Scan Tool
If you have lost your proximity key fob and need to program your new one, you can use a scanning method.
To use this method, you need a Snap-on scan tool with the 17.2 software version. Your goal is to program a 24-digit number. You can use the following steps:
Step 1
Connect the Snap-on scan tool to your Harley-Davidson.
Step 2
Click on Body Control Module, then click on the following functions:
Functional Tests – Special Function – Configurations
Step 3
After clicking on Configurations, the scan tool will present different kinds of information regarding your Harley-Davidson. When you see 2 options for key fob pins, select the one that has all zeroes.
Step 4
Check the 24-digit pin on your new key fob. Add the pin on the scan tool using a keypad and press OK.
The new key fob pin has been saved and the new key fob is ready for use.
Using the AVDI Method
This is a great method for tech junkies to try out. Abrites Vehicle Diagnostic Interface (AVDI) is a great technology for running diagnostics on all kinds of vehicles. It requires a bit of heavy-duty work but it’s equally effective in the absence of complicated devices.
Step 1
To run this device you must first remove the plastic cover on the side to gain access to the diagnostic center.
Step 2
Pick up the connector wires and pull off the rubber cap.
Step 3
Connect your AVDI to the SAE J1850 adapter using a CB305 cable.
Step 4
Connect the CB305 cable to the bike’s connector wires.
Step 5
Switch on the ignition button and press the fuel pump to put it in the run position.
Step 6
Run the AVDI software to collect information from the bike.
Step 7
Open Key Learning Menu.
Step 8
Under Diagnostics, you will see several options. Select ‘Harley-Davidson’ and click on ‘Next’.
Step 9
You’ll get a dialog box running a diagnostic step – let this complete.
Step 10
Eventually, you will get 2 options for Key Fob 1 and 2. Select the option where all the digits are ‘0’ and click on ‘Next’.
Step 11
You will see a new dialog box where you will get the option for adding a new Key Fob Serial number. Punch in the number from your new key fob and click on ‘Next’.
Step 12
After you see the message ‘The Operation is complete’, it means you have successfully reprogrammed your new key fob to your Harley-Davidson.
Step 13
Now, you can switch off the ignition and fuel buttons, detach the wires, and put the plastic cover back in its original position.
Though these methods to reprogram your new key fob key seem to be complex, you can quickly accomplish this without running to the nearest mechanic.
Tips to Avoid Misplacing Your Key Fob
Although key fobs are helpful, you can easily forget where you put them and lose them as a result. Though there are ways to buy and reprogram new fobs, they can also be used to steal your Harley-Davidson if it falls in the wrong hands.
So, here are some of the tips to help you remember where you kept them.
● Use a keychain or keyring
● Put them in the same place
● Use a Bluetooth tracker
● Double-check to ensure where you have kept it
● Never leave your home or any other place without checking it
Prevention is always better than a cure – even when it comes to motorcycles!
How Have Key Fobs Made Life Easier?
Key fobs are amazing inventions as it has made life so much easier. Unlike traditional keys, it is packed with so many features that have modified the modern lifestyle. The smart technology used in the key fob helps bike and car owners track their vehicles and protect them.
In the past, a major time went by locating vehicles in the absence of key fobs. However, that has changed. Also, it has become easier to secure vehicles as the alarm override pin code takes care of that.
Final Thoughts
Using and reprogramming a key fob isn’t as tough as it looks. With the right information and tools, you can start using a new Harley-Davidson key fob. Though it’s possible to misplace your key, avoid doing that.
Key fobs are a brilliant invention that has made life easier for most riders. Just make sure to take care of them and they’ll help make your ownership experience much smoother.
great information but i am looking to find out if i can program my key fob from my 2019 Flthtk to my new 2021 flhtk. my 2019 burnt in a garage fire i had here 4 weeks ago. When i picked up my new bike yesterday it only comes with 1 fob, the dealer was unsure if it can be done.
Hi James!
We do not think there can be any problems. The keyfob catalog numbers are the same: 9030011 for 2019 and 2021. You can use the method using scan tool or AVDI. Or have the dealer do it with the original equipment.
There is no “button” to push on the key fob on 2020 and later models ?
They are a proximity unit. Do not leave them on the table when using the washroom when you are out.
a good place for them is in your pocket when not at home. mine went missing from the drink cup while
I paid for my fuel. The next thing I did was change my start-up pin while awaiting my new fob.