Lear Remote Head Key – PCF7941 Transponder | 433 MHz Remote

By Mohammad H. Abdelhadi, ALOA-Certified Master Locksmith, mobile automotive locksmith. Reviewed by Ray Obar, Master Locksmith. Updated June 1, 2026.

Operating at 433 MHz with a PCF7941 transponder chip, the Lear Remote Head Key serves as a combined ignition key and wireless remote for a range of Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles produced between 2001 and 2017. This unit integrates the remote-lock electronics directly into the key head rather than using a separate fob body, resulting in a single compact device that handles both mechanical ignition duties and keyless entry. Inside the housing sits the PCF7941 transponder, which communicates with the vehicle’s immobilizer module during each start cycle to authenticate the Lear Remote Head Key before the engine control unit allows fuel delivery and ignition. A correctly enrolled unit will respond to the immobilizer challenge within milliseconds, making the authentication process seamless to the driver while maintaining robust anti-theft protection.

Lear Remote Head Key – Transponder and Frequency Details

The PCF7941 is a well-established transponder IC that combines a crypto-enabled immobilizer element with a radio-frequency remote section on a single silicon die. In the context of this key, the transponder side handles the passive challenge-response exchange with the vehicle’s immobilizer ring surrounding the ignition cylinder, while the RF section transmits lock, unlock, and trunk-release commands at 433 MHz. Because both functions share the same circuit board inside the key head, the device requires only one battery — typically a CR2032 or equivalent coin cell — to power the remote buttons, while the transponder draws its energy inductively from the immobilizer antenna ring whenever it is inserted into the ignition.

Locksmiths programming this remote head key should be aware that the PCF7941 supports multiple cryptographic protocols. The specific protocol variant active on these Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep platforms must be matched during cloning or on-board programming. Using a diagnostic tool that supports Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) immobilizer systems is essential, as generic OBD programmers may not negotiate the correct crypto handshake. PIN-code retrieval from the vehicle’s security module is typically required before a new key can be enrolled.

Vehicle Compatibility

The following vehicles accept this remote head key based on verified fitment data. Year ranges indicate the model years during which the PCF7941-based Lear unit was used from the factory or as an authorized replacement:

• Chrysler 200 — 2011 to 2014
• Chrysler PT Cruiser — 2001 to 2010
• Chrysler Sebring — 2007 to 2010
• Dodge Avenger — 2008 to 2014
• Dodge Caliber — 2006 to 2012
• Dodge Nitro — 2007 to 2012
• Jeep Compass — 2007 to 2017
• Jeep Liberty — 2007 to 2012
• Jeep Patriot — 2007 to 2017

Note that although these models span a wide production window, not every sub-trim within a given year necessarily used the same key configuration. Vehicles optioned with different security packages — particularly higher-end trims that may have transitioned to proximity-based smart keys — could require a different SKU entirely. Always confirm by inspecting the existing key or querying the vehicle’s VIN before ordering a replacement.

Programming Considerations for Automotive Locksmiths

Enrolling the Lear Remote Head Key to any of the compatible vehicles above involves two distinct procedures that must both succeed: immobilizer transponder registration and RF remote pairing. On most FCA platforms from this era, the two procedures are handled through the same diagnostic session but target different modules — the Wireless Control Module (WCM) for the transponder side and the Radio Frequency Hub (RF Hub) or Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) module for the remote buttons.

For the immobilizer portion, the technician connects a compatible diagnostic tool to the OBD-II port and navigates to the security access or key learning menu. The vehicle’s PIN or security code is entered to unlock the WCM, after which the new key is placed in the ignition and learned. Some year-model combinations allow on-board self-learning sequences using existing working keys — typically involving a rapid ignition-cycle pattern followed by a timed button press — but this method only works when at least one previously enrolled key is available.

The remote-control pairing step is sometimes accomplished automatically during the transponder enrollment. On other platforms, it requires a separate “RKE Learn” routine in the diagnostic software. If the vehicle does not respond to lock and unlock commands after transponder enrollment, running the dedicated RF learn procedure will resolve the issue. Battery condition in the key should be verified before this step; a weak battery can cause intermittent RF failures that mimic a programming fault.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Replacement Options

Lear Corporation is a major Tier-1 automotive supplier, and its remote head keys appear as original equipment on millions of FCA vehicles. When sourcing a replacement, buyers will encounter both OEM units carrying Chrysler or Mopar branding — which were manufactured by Lear — and aftermarket alternatives that replicate the housing, blade, and transponder configuration. Both categories can function identically once programmed, provided the aftermarket version uses a genuine PCF7941 transponder chip rather than a lower-cost substitute that lacks the correct crypto capabilities.

For vehicle owners, the practical difference often comes down to cost and shell quality. OEM keys tend to have tighter button feel and more durable plastic, while aftermarket options can reduce the per-key cost significantly — an important factor when multiple spare keys are needed. Regardless of the source, a qualified locksmith or dealer must program the key to the vehicle; the transponder will not start the engine until it has been cryptographically paired with that specific vehicle’s immobilizer.

When to Contact a Locksmith

If the device is lost, damaged, or its transponder chip has failed, a mobile automotive locksmith equipped with FCA-compatible diagnostic equipment can cut a new blade and program the replacement on-site. This is often faster and less expensive than a dealership visit, especially for older models in the fitment list above where dealer parts departments may no longer stock the key in-house. A locksmith can also add spare keys to vehicles that currently have only one working unit — a scenario that carries significant risk, since losing the sole remaining key would require a far more involved and costly all-keys-lost procedure involving module replacement or reflashing.

Related help: Chrysler auto locksmith, Dodge auto locksmith, Jeep auto locksmith, car key replacement, car key programming.

Compatible and related keys: related key: Bosma Remote Head Key (FCC ID KOBDT04A), Lear 3-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID GQ43VT17T), Lear 3-Button Remote Key Fob (FCC ID GQ43VT9T), Continental Automotive Smart Key Fob (FCC ID M3N40821302) (compatible fob), Continental Automotive Transponder Key (chip PCF7941A), compatible Lear Transponder Key (chip PCF7941).