2018 International MV Key Fob Programming Guide

As an ASE-certified electrical technician and locksmith, I see a lot of medium-duty commercial trucks roll through the shop. When it comes to the 2018 International MV, the key and remote systems are significantly different from your average passenger car. Unlike consumer vehicles, commercial trucks utilize the Diamond Logic electrical system, meaning any remote keyless entry (RKE) features are heavily integrated into the Body Control Module (BCM).

Here is everything you need to know about replacing and programming a key fob for a 2018 International MV.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

If you are hoping to do a pedal-dance or cycle the ignition on and off to program a new remote for your 2018 International MV, I have bad news. There is no on-board DIY programming procedure for this truck.

Because the International MV utilizes Navistar’s Diamond Logic multiplexed electrical system, adding a new remote fob requires connecting directly to the vehicle's diagnostic port (usually the 9-pin J1939 connector under the dash).

To program a fob, a technician must:

1. Connect a Nexiq USB-Link (or equivalent commercial vehicle interface) to the diagnostic port.
2. Open Navistar’s Diamond Logic Builder (DLB) software.
3. Access the Body Controller configuration.
4. Put the Body Controller into learn mode for RKE.
5. Press the lock/unlock buttons on the new fob so the BCM registers the remote's unique radio frequency ID.

Attempting to bypass this system is not possible. You will need specialized commercial diagnostic equipment.

Battery replacement

Even though you can't program a new fob yourself, replacing a dead battery in an existing, already-programmed fob is incredibly easy and won't erase the fob's memory.

1. Locate the seam: Look along the edge of the plastic key fob for a small notch or seam.
2. Pry open the case: Use a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic trim tool to gently pry the two halves of the shell apart.
3. Remove the old battery: Take note of which side is facing up (usually the positive "+" side). Carefully slide the old CR2032 battery out of its contact bracket.
4. Insert the new battery: Insert a fresh CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive "+" side is facing the same direction as the old one.
5. Snap it shut: Line up the two halves of the plastic shell and firmly squeeze them together until they click into place. Test the fob near your truck.

Where to buy a replacement fob

Finding a remote for a commercial vehicle like the International MV isn't as simple as hopping online for a passenger car fob.

• International Dealership (Pros/Cons): The absolute best place to get a replacement. Commercial trucks are highly customized. By giving the dealer your VIN, they can pull the exact build sheet and order the correct Diamond Logic-compatible fob. The con? It’s the most expensive route, often costing upwards of $100-$200 for the part alone.
• Commercial Locksmith (Pros/Cons): A heavy-duty mobile locksmith who specializes in semi-trucks and medium-duty fleets can usually source the fob and program it on-site. This is highly convenient if the truck is stranded, though the service call fee can make it pricey.
• Amazon / eBay (Pros/Cons): I highly advise against buying commercial truck fobs on Amazon. The aftermarket support for International RKE systems is extremely poor, and many online fobs lack the correct internal circuit boards to communicate with the Diamond Logic BCM.

If on-board programming isn't supported

Since on-board programming is completely unavailable for the 2018 International MV, you must budget for professional programming.

Most commercial truck dealerships will charge between 1 and 1.5 hours of labor to hook up their DLB software and program the fobs, which can range from $150 to $250 just for the labor.

It is also worth noting the physical key aspect. Many International MVs use a standard mechanical fleet key without a transponder immobilizer (unless specifically optioned by the fleet purchaser for anti-theft purposes). If your truck does not have a transponder system, any locksmith can cut a mechanical key for the ignition for just a few dollars, but the remote functions (locking/unlocking the doors) will still strictly require the DLB software programming.

Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.