Want to add the convenience of remote start to your 2011 Charger without breaking the bank? Many owners are led to believe that enabling this feature requires purchasing expensive complete kits, including unnecessary parts like a new hood latch, radio frequency hub, and antenna. However, if your 2011 Charger is already equipped with the keyless entry and go package (indicated by a key fob and push-to-start button), you’re in luck! You can activate remote start with minimal effort and expense.
This guide will walk you through the straightforward process of enabling remote start on your 2011 Charger by utilizing your existing components and a simple software adjustment. You’ll only need to acquire a new key fob with the remote start button and, optionally, a resistor to bypass the need for a new hood latch.
The magic behind this upgrade lies in using AlfaOBD software to reconfigure your car’s Body Control Module (BCM). Here’s how to do it:
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BCM Configuration with AlfaOBD: Connect to your 2011 Charger‘s BCM using AlfaOBD. Within the BCM configuration settings, locate and enable the following two options:
- VehConfig 1 – Remote Start Present: This setting tells your car that the remote start feature should be active.
- CBC Config I/O-Connector A Pin 11: Hood Ajar Switch Input Present: This configures the system to recognize the hood switch input.
While the original author also mentions setting “ECUConfig 3-Antenna Type to Active Primary and Active Secondary antenna,” this step is likely unnecessary for enabling basic remote start functionality and can be skipped.
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Key Fob Programming: Next, navigate to the Radio Freq Hub (RFHUB) section in AlfaOBD. Retrieve your vehicle’s PIN using the software. Once you have the PIN, proceed to program your new key fob that includes the remote start button. This step essentially teaches your car to recognize and respond to the new key fob commands.
Alt text: AlfaOBD software interface showing key fob programming options for a 2011 Charger, highlighting the Radio Freq Hub menu.
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Hood Switch Consideration (and Bypass): After these programming steps, your 2011 Charger‘s system is technically ready for remote start. However, if you attempt to use it now, the BCM will likely prevent activation due to the absence of a hood switch signal. The system is designed to prevent remote starts if the hood is open.
You have two choices here:
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Install a Hood Latch with a Switch: The most conventional method is to install a new hood latch that includes the necessary hood switch. A guide for installing an OEM hood latch kit can be found here: https://www.allmoparparts.com/docs/82214045.pdf
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Hood Switch Bypass with Resistor: For a simpler and more cost-effective workaround, especially if you are confident your hood is always securely closed when using remote start, you can bypass the hood switch requirement. This involves using a 1K ohm resistor. Connect a wire from Pin 11 in the BCM A connector (the same pin mentioned in the BCM configuration step) through the 1K ohm resistor to ground. This simulates a closed hood signal, allowing the remote start to function.
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By following these steps, you can successfully enable remote start on your 2011 Charger in a couple of hours, saving significantly compared to dealership or aftermarket kit installations. The most challenging part might be accessing the BCM connector, but with patience, you’ll be enjoying the convenience of remote start on your 2011 Charger in no time!
