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Howdy group! I have run into a crazy situation. My son bought a 2017 RAM 2500 with the 6.7 Cummins from an auction. The truck had one key fob that apparently doesn't work, even with a replacement battery installed. We used our scan tool to attempt to program a replacement key, but it isn't working. We found that the RF hub module was missing completely. We installed a new RF hub module.
This is where it gets interesting. 2 different scan tools and our AlldataDIY tell us that we must first program the key fob before programming the replacement RF hub module. The catch 22 is that without a programmed key we are unable to get the ignition switch to turn on in order to allow our scan tool to access the PCM. So we have no comms with the PCM because the unprogrammed key isn't recognized by the system and won't allow us to get to a KOEO state. We tried to program the RF hub module first, but it requires the KOEO.
Multiple times we tried to program the new key fob but it failed each time. We suspect that it is failing because the system isn't recognizing the new RF hub module.
In summary...it appears that we can't program a new key because the RF hub module isn't talking with the PCM because we haven't programmed it to do so. But we can't program the new RF hub module because we don't have a programmed key fob.
Any ideas? We are thinking of simply bypassing the ignition switch with a jumper to see if we can talk with the PCM and get the RF hub module programmed. Then program the key afterwards. Not sure if it will work, but that is where we think we are now.
New RF Hub is unlinked — not initialized with the BCM/PCM
No valid key — so fob authentication fails
No ignition on (KOEO) — scan tool can’t communicate
Programming RFH requires KOEO
Programming key requires working RFH
⚠️ This is not bypassable with a jumper to the ignition switch—it won’t trigger the proper CAN wake-up and secure handshake needed by the modules. And you risk damaging circuits trying.
Correct Fix (Per Chrysler Secure Gateway Protocol / Dealer Tools)You will NEED:
WiTECH 2.0 (or AutoAuth-approved tool like Autel/Launch with full 12+ FCA Security Gateway access)
Secure Tech Authority login (AutoAuth or Dealer)
Two fobs (ideally) — although one may work
The steps:?️ Module Initialization Sequence
Install NEW RF Hub module (as you've done)
Use WiTECH 2.0 or SGW-authorized scan tool with Security Access
Go to “Replace RFH” or “Initialize RFH” special function
System will authorize RFH and prompt to program key fob(s)
After successful pairing, vehicle will power up KOEO and allow PCM/BODY access again
My understanding is that this 2017 doesn't have the SGW module because that started in 2018.
We do have AutoAuth access with our scan tools that we have used on our 2020 RAM, but I don't think its needed for the 2017.
As far as the keys go, we have 1 new one and 1 original, but neither one is programmed to the vehicle.
I stopped at the local Dodge dealer today and they said I need to program the new RF Hub first, then do the key fobs. The trouble is that both scan tools I have require KOEO to install the hub...which I can't do because I don't have a programmed keyfob.
So, we have a local locksmith coming by in the morning. His business is programming keys so we're hoping he can get it done.
BTW, after checking out the schematic on the ignition switch I quickly realized that there would be no bypass ability there, so I didn't try.
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