Jeep Key Programming: STAR Connector Locations and Real Jobs

On newer Jeeps, Bill (a working locksmith in Arizona) has to find the STAR connector before his Autel IM608 can program a key. Here is where it is on the Jeeps he has worked on, plus a vintage Willys key cut by hand.

Other makes: see all vehicle key programming videos by make.

2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Finding the STAR Connector and Adding a Fob

The Hidden Jeep Connector Most Owners Never Find (2 min)

On the passenger side, Bill reaches up under and finds the STAR connector. (In a second clip on this Jeep he pulls back the passenger-side carpet to get to it.) He plugs his cable in there, then into the VCI and the OBD port, and runs the IM608: Jeep, automatic selection, read VIN, hot function, learn a key. His tip: check the key count first. It showed two, so after adding the new fob it should read three.

The tool asks him to turn the ignition off and the hazards on, then hold the new remote near the start button and press unlock within 60 seconds. The key count goes to three.

2021 Jeep Wrangler: STAR Connector Location

For the 2021 Wrangler push-start flip key, drop the glove box. The STAR connector is on the left side, and from there the cable runs over to the IM608. A tricky location.

1954 Jeep Willys: Ignition Key Cut by Hand

With the ignition core out, Bill pushes a marked blank into the lock so the wafers scratch the marker. That shows where each cut goes. Then he files the blank down a little at a time with a pippin file until it works.

FAQ

What is a STAR connector?

It is the connection point Bill has to plug into on these newer Jeeps and Chryslers before his programmer can add a key. Its location varies by vehicle.

Where is the STAR connector on a 2018 Grand Cherokee?

In Bill’s videos it is on the passenger side, down low. In one clip he pulls back the passenger-side carpet to reach it. On the 2021 Wrangler it is behind the glove box on the left side.