These Are the Secret 2012 Dodge Ram Key Fob Tricks You Need to Know

From improved connectivity to automatic window release, there’s more to your 2012 Dodge Ram Key Fob than meets the eye.
Written by Melanie Krieps Mergen
Edited by Pat Roache
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With global window release systems, improved connectivity, and a discrete physical key, the 2012 Dodge Ram key fob has a ton of hidden functions. Use this guide to unlock your 2012 Dodge Ram key fob’s true potential. 
  • Beyond the basic locking and unlocking functions, a 2012 Dodge Ram has plenty more key fob tricks up its sleeve.
  • A 2012 Dodge Ram key fob could remote start your engine, allow you to roll down your windows from outside, and more.
  • You can program your Dodge Ram key fob to perform custom functions.

Dodge Ram key fob basics: remote start, unlock, and lock

Here are some basic functions of your Dodge Ram key fob, specifically the Keyless Enter ‘N Go feature:
  • To start your Dodge Ram remotely: Push the remote start button (the circle) twice within 5 seconds. If equipped, you can start your engine from up to 300 feet away.
  • To unlock your Ram’s doors, liftgate, swing gate, and trunk: Hit the unlock button once.
  • To lock your Ram’s doors and gates: Hit the lock button once.
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How to find the hidden key in your 2012 Dodge Ram key fob

The 2012 Dodge Ram key fob has a hidden physical key that acts as a failsafe if your key fob battery dies. 
Follow these steps to use your 2012 Dodge Ram’s physical key
  • Slide the switch below the fob’s remote start button and above the keychain hole to release the key from the lower fob body.
  • Locate the keyhole on the rear side of your driver’s door handle.
  • Pry the handle cover off with a small wedge, (like the end of your key) with steady, gentle pressure to avoid damaging the handle or paint.
  • Insert the key and turn. 
You should now have access to your 2012 Dodge Ram’s front cabin!
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How to start a 2012 Dodge Ram when your key fob battery is dead

Follow these steps to start a 2012 Dodge Ram when your key fob battery is dead:
  • Use the physical key to unlock the door.
  • Slide the key back into the key fob. 
  • With your foot on the brake, take the butt-end of the dead key fob and push it against the start/stop button. 
Your truck should recognize the dead key fob and start the engine.

How to enable 2012 Dodge Ram key fob tricks

With a properly-enabled key, you’ll have plenty of hacks up your sleeve. The tricky part? Enabling each of your key’s unique remote functions.
To begin the process, download the AlfaOBD app on your smartphone. Enable Bluetooth to connect the app directly to your vehicle. Then, follow these instructions to connect to your Dodge Ram Bluetooth:
  • Enter your Dodge Ram and start the engine.
  • Access the body computer option on your control unit.
  • Ensure your phone’s Bluetooth is turned on, and press connect.
  • Select your device.
  • Wait a few seconds.
Once the onboard controls system reads CONNECTED, you’re ready to enable key fob functions. To skip the process during further use, select the AUTOMATIC RECONNECT box on your control system.
Once connected, you can enable your key fob capabilities using your smartphone with the select procedure button. For example, here’s how to adjust remote window settings:
  • Press “car configuration change”.
  • Click “select option”.
  • Scroll down to the “doors” section.
  • Enable “global windows up”, “global windows down”, or both.
  • Under “value” select “yes”.
  • Turn off the vehicle and open the door to save your selection.
After 30 to 60 seconds, your vehicle’s control console will reboot, finalizing the change. Now, simply double-tap and hold your 2012 Dodge Ram’s unlock button to activate the global window feature.

How to lower all your 2012 Dodge Ram windows from outside

Once enabled, you can use the following key fob commands to control your 2012 Dodge Ram windows from the outside:
  • To open the windows: Double tap and hold the unlock button to begin lowering the windows you selected in the app. 
  • To stop lowering the windows: Release the button.
  • To raise the windows: The same steps apply—double tap and hold the unlock button until they reach the desired height.

How to use your infotainment system with your Dodge Ram’s engine off

Here’s how you can use your Dodge Ram’s infotainment system without turning the engine on:
  • Press the start button on your car once with your key fob nearby and without pressing the brake pedal to enter ACC mode, giving you control over the vehicle’s accessories. You’ll be able to control the radio from there. 
  • Press the start button a second time to enter Run mode, which gives you access to the rest of the instrument cluster, as well as the Ram’s climate control system.
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