2020 International MV Key Fob Programming & Replacement Guide

As an ASE-certified electrical technician and locksmith who frequently works on commercial fleets, I get a lot of questions about medium-duty trucks like the 2020 International MV. Unlike standard passenger vehicles, the International MV utilizes Navistar’s Diamond Logic electrical system. If your MV was ordered with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) option, replacing and programming a key fob is a completely different process than what you’d find on a standard pickup truck.

Here is everything you need to know about replacing, programming, and maintaining the remote key fob for your 2020 International MV.

Quick reference

Step-by-step on-board programming

If you are hoping to do a "door-shut, key-turn, brake-press" dance to program a new remote to your 2020 International MV, I have to stop you right there. There is no DIY on-board programming procedure for this truck.

Because the 2020 International MV operates on the highly advanced Diamond Logic multiplexed electrical system, the Body Controller (BC) handles all RKE functions. Adding a new remote requires interfacing directly with this controller.

To program a new key fob, the following professional procedure is used:

1. Connect a Nexiq USB-Link (or equivalent RP1210-compliant interface) to the 9-pin diagnostic port under the dash.
2. Launch the Navistar Diamond Logic Builder (DLB) software on a diagnostic laptop.
3. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off).
4. Navigate to the Body Controller module within DLB.
5. Select the "Features" or "Programmable Parameters" tab, locate the Remote Keyless Entry configuration, and initialize the fob learning sequence.
6. Press the Lock and Unlock buttons on the new fob simultaneously until the system acknowledges the signal.
7. Disconnect the datalink and test the remote functions.

Note: This requires DLB software with the appropriate tier of diagnostic permissions, meaning this is strictly a job for a commercial truck dealer or a specialized heavy-duty locksmith.

Battery replacement

Even heavy-duty fobs die eventually. Fortunately, replacing the battery is a quick, tool-light DIY job.

1. Look for a small notch or seam along the edge of the remote casing.
2. Insert a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool into the notch and gently twist to split the two halves of the shell apart.
3. Remove the green circuit board (if it doesn't stay in the front half) and locate the battery on the back.
4. Slide the old battery out of its retaining clip.
5. Insert a new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing up.
6. Snap the two halves of the plastic shell back together tightly to ensure the weather seal is intact.
7. Test the remote. (Changing the battery does not erase the fob from the truck's memory).

Where to buy a replacement fob

When dealing with the International MV, your purchasing options are much narrower than with a Ford or Chevy.

• Commercial Truck Dealership: This is your most reliable route. Because the fobs are tied to the specific Body Controller programming of the truck (and frequently ordered as a specific upfitter package), giving your VIN to the parts counter ensures you get the exact remote required. Expect to pay premium commercial pricing (often $100–$200 for the fob alone).
• Heavy-Duty Locksmiths: Some specialized fleet locksmiths carry OEM Navistar remotes. They can supply and program the fob on-site, saving you a tow or a trip to the dealer.
• Amazon / eBay: I strongly advise against buying commercial truck remotes online. Standard aftermarket support for Navistar Diamond Logic remotes is virtually non-existent, and you are highly likely to end up with a useless piece of plastic that DLB cannot recognize.

If on-board programming isn't supported

Because on-board programming is impossible on the 2020 MV, you must factor programming labor into your replacement costs. Commercial dealerships typically charge 1 to 2 hours of labor for diagnostic hookup and DLB programming, which can easily add $150 to $350 to the final bill.

It is also important to note that most International MVs do not use a transponder immobilizer chip in the physical ignition key. The key itself is usually a standard mechanical heavy-duty key (like the common 1098 profile), which costs only a few dollars to cut. The security of the truck relies on the mechanical door lock and the RKE system rather than a chipped ignition.

Don't let a lost remote sideline your route or your fleet. Find a mobile locksmith or shop on Repairius.