Lost Car Keys Replacement

All You Need to Know about Car Keys, Programming and more

Dodge Key Programming – All the information you need to know how to program a new Dodge key fob, transponder, or regular keys without the original, how to make a duplicate, costs, tips, which keys you can program yourself, procedures, what you should know before, and more.

Dodge key fob programming - All you need to know
Dodge key fob programming – All you need to know

 

 

In this article:

Introduction to programming Dodge keys

How to add a duplicate Dodge key once you already have a working key?

Tips for programming your new key

Programming machine for Dodge key fobs
Programming machine for Dodge key fobs

How can I save money on getting a duplicate or a new Dodge remote key made?

Dodge programming procedure – How is it actually done?

Automotive locksmith - On-site programming service
Automotive locksmith – On-site programming service

Dodge key programming cost – Estimated price of programming a new key fob 

I already have a programmed remote key, I just need a duplicate – Dodge duplicate remote key cost

 

Introduction:

General information Dodge key programming
General information Dodge key programming

All Dodge models/car keys made after 1998 require programming or coding. That includes transponder keys and key fobs.

Here are a couple of examples of transponder keys:

Transponder key that requires programming - Dodge
Transponder key that requires programming – Dodge

 

Transponder key that requires programming - Dodge
Transponder key that requires programming – Dodge

Here are a couple of examples of key fobs:

Dodge key fob and emergency key - Must be programmed with a special machine
Dodge key fob and emergency key – Must be programmed with a special machine

 

Dodge key fob and emergency key - Must be programmed with a special machine
Dodge key fob and emergency key – Must be programmed with a special machine

 

Cutting and programming the actual key when you don’t have a working key already require help from an outside source like the dealer or an automotive locksmith.

However, programming an additional key for some models is easier. The process of programming a new key to start the car involves, basically, two phases:

 

A. Cutting a new key :

"Blank" Uncut Dodge Transponder Keys
“Blank” Uncut Dodge Transponder Keys

For transponder keys – That means cutting a blank key to match the ignition and will be able to turn the ignition to “ON” or “RUN” position.

For key fobs – The emergency key will only unlock the doors.

You can call the dealer or a locksmith to cut the key for you. Keep in mind, you will have to provide proof of ownership and the VIN number.

 

B. Program the key when you don’t have a working key.

Programming machine for Dodge key fob
Programming machine for Dodge key fob

As mentioned above, if your Dodge model was made after 1998 then chances are is equipped with some sort of transponder security feature.

That security feature requires an additional action (programming the key) to start the car.

Program a new key, when you have no keys available require a programming machine AND  a pin code. Therefore, a locksmith or a dealer are your only options.

 

IMPORTANT:

 

You can’t program a new Dodge transponder key or key fob if you don’t have both the key and the car on-site. You won’t be able to code it remotely or have someone ship you a coded key. In other words, you will either have to tow the car to the dealer or call a locksmith for on-site service.

In addition, programming a new key when you do not have a working key only possible with a special programming machine and pin code that most automotive locksmiths or the dealer have.

On-site coding service with special programming machine for Dodge keys
On-site coding service with special programming machine for Dodge keys

 

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I already have a working key, I just want to make a duplicate. What is the procedure of programming an extra duplicate key?

Here is what you will need to add a duplicate Dodge key:

  1. Two already programmed and working keys.
  2. A cut key that you wish to program – make sure it has the right transponder value as your other key.
  3. You can program up to four additional keys for each vehicle using this method.

 

Here are the steps you should take to program an additional Dodge key:

Transponder key - Dodge - Y162PT
Transponder key – Dodge – Y162PT
  1. insert your first original key – One of the two keys that currently you are able to start the car with into the ignition cylinder.
  2. Turn the ignition cylinder to “ON” position for five-ten seconds and after to “OFF” position. DO NOT LEAVE THE KEYLESS THAN FIVE OR MORE THAN 10 SECONDS.
  3. Remove the first original key from the ignition cylinder.
  4. Now you have EIGHT seconds to do the next step.
  5. Insert the second already programmed into the ignition cylinder and turn it to “ON” position.
  6. Take a look at the security light. It should go on which will indicate the is in “learning mode”
  7. Once the security light goes on and “learning mode” is enabled, turn the ignition to OFF position.
  8. Now you have 40 seconds to do the next step.
  9. Insert the new key you want to program and turn the ignition cylinder to ON position.
  10. After 8-15 seconds the security light will go on for about 3 seconds. Once you see the security light on for 3 seconds, it means the new key has been programmed and can start the car.
  11. To add additional keys, repeat steps 1-10.

 

How do I add and program an additional Dodge key fob?

Dodge duplicate key fobs
Dodge duplicate key fobs

As mention above, there is no self-programming for Dodge key fobs. If you wish to program an additional key, you will have to either call a locksmith or the dealer, as a special coding machine is needed to program those keys.

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A few tips before you start the process of programming a new car key for Dodge models:

A. Once you program a new key, ALL previous keys will be erased and won’t start the car.

In other words, if you find your old key after programming the new one, it will not work.

Therefore, we highly recommend having at least two new cut keys and program them both.

Most Dodge keys look the same but have a different chip value inside
Most Dodge keys look the same but have a different chip value inside

B. There are a few transponder keys (Y160-PT, Y164-PT, FOBIK, Push to start remotes, etc) that work on Dodge models. You must have the right type of transponder key that matches your model and year.

Otherwise, the key will not program. You can check the right key for the exact make and model here.

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How can I save money on getting a duplicate or a new Dodge key/remote key fob?

If possible, avoid buying a key from a locksmith or dealer - get it online yourself
If possible, avoid buying a key from a locksmith or dealer – get it online yourself

As we explained above, the process of getting a new key involves cutting the new key and program it.

When you call a locksmith or the dealer, they will charge you for a service call, the actual key, the labor of cutting the key, and programming.

Fortunately, you can save money by ordering it online, and only have them cut and program it. This alone will save you about $50-$100 as the locksmith or the dealer make a profit by selling you the key as well.

True, it may take a longer time to get a key online but if you are not in a big rush or need a key ASAP, we recommend you do that. This is especially true if you only need a duplicate made.

 

Bottom line, how and what should I do?

  1. Order your key online – Make sure you get the right key. In case you get the wrong key or remote programming will not be possible. You can look up your exact key for your Dodge model Here. Simply choose your model and year and get it online. You can order your key here.
  2. Call the dealer or locksmith – Explain to them you already have the key/remote and would like it to be cut and/or programmed. Ask them for a quote on this procedure.
  3. In addition, keep in mind, the process usually costs somewhere between $80-$150, depends on the type of key/remote you have.
  4. Finally, schedule a time with them to have it done. Remember to provide them with the exact year, make and model, VIN number, and make sure you have proof of ownership.

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Dodge programming procedure – How is it actually done?

Dodge transponder and remote car keys, also known as key fobs, smart keys or push to start keys, are the latest generation of security car keys.

Therefore, onboard programming or self-programming is not available for these type of keys or remotes and an additional equipment or programming machine is necessary to complete this process.

An automotive locksmith or the dealer will have to connect this machine to the car’s computer to start the programming procedure.

Below, a few examples of Dodge remote key fobs that require a programming machine:
IYZ-C01C Dodge remote key fob - Programming required
IYZ-C01C Dodge remote key fob – Programming required

 

M3N40821302 Dodge remote key fob - Programming required
M3N40821302 Dodge remote key fob – Programming required

 

 

Y162-PT Dodge transponder chip car key - Programming required
Y162-PT Dodge transponder chip car key – Programming required

 

OHT692713AA Dodge transponder chip car key - Programming required
OHT692713AA Dodge transponder chip car key – Programming required
Below, an example of programming machines, used by the dealer or an automotive locksmith to program Dodge transponder remote key fobs:

 

Car key programming machine for Dodge key fobs
Car key programming machine for Dodge key fobs

 

Automotive locksmith programming 2 new Dodge key fobs on-site
Automotive locksmith programming 2 new Dodge key fobs on-site

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Dodge key programming cost – How much does it cost to program a new Dodge transponder key and key fob.

As stated above, getting your Dodge key online and having the dealer or an automotive locksmith programming the key fob or transponder can save you a lot of money. If you need to order your key, you can do it HERE.

Coding machine for Dodge keys
Coding machine for Dodge keys

Programming a new Dodge key, assuming you already have a blank key, involves two phases: (Regardless of the type of key – remote key fob or transponder key)

 

1. Cutting the key or remote key fob so it will fit your car’s ignition/doors.
Automotive locksmith cutting a new car key
Automotive locksmith cutting a new car key

Before the key can be programmed, it needs to be cut to fit your car (ignition and doors). The most common way an automotive locksmith or the dealership do that is by “pulling” the key code, using your VIN from the database. Every Dodge car has a unique key code, which is attached to the VIN number.

Sometimes, this code can be found on one of the cylinders (Door cylinder, glove box, etc). However, to have access to this cylinder, we must disassemble the door or glove box cylinder to take it out. Therefore, most locksmiths prefer to pay for this code and save time. (Unlike when you already have a cut key and just need a duplicate)

Here is an example of a key code on a glove box cylinder:
Key code on a cylinder - Used by an automotive locksmith to cut a new key
Keycode on a cylinder – Used by an automotive locksmith to cut a new key

This is relevant for both transponder keys and key fobs.

Uncut Dodge fob emergency key
Uncut Dodge fob emergency key

 

Uncut Dodge transponder key
Uncut Dodge transponder key

 

2. Program the key or remote key fob – to actually start the car.
Automotive locksmith coding a new Dodge key fob on-site
Automotive locksmith coding a new Dodge key fob on-site

The programming procedure is simply a process to let your Dodge car know that the new key is “authorized” to start the car. That being done by connecting a programming machine to your car’s computer. The process takes about 5 minutes for each key to be programmed.

Both the dealer and an automotive locksmith will have to do the same thing, however, according to our research, prices vary:

Cost of programming Dodge key fob and transponder key:

Dodge coding machine connected to the car for transponder key programming
Dodge coding machine connected to the car for transponder key programming

 

Dodge coding machine connected to the car for key fob programming
Dodge coding machine connected to the car for key fob programming
By the dealer: (Not including the key)
Estimated cost programming Dodge key fob - Dealership
Estimated cost programming Dodge key fob – Dealership

These are average costs: (Depends on your location, the dealership, and more)

Cutting the key: Usually around $80

Programming the key: Usually around $80

In addition, you will have to two your car to the dealer which is an additional expanse of $100 (estimate)

Total estimated cost: $260

 

By an automotive locksmith: (Not including the key)
Estimated cost programming Dodge key fob - Locksmith
Estimated cost programming Dodge key fob – Locksmith

These are average costs, as it depends on the year and model of your Dodge car, your location (for service call fee) time of day etc.

We checked the prices during regular business hours, the same as we did with the dealer, and here are the results:

Cutting the key: Usually around $70

Programming the key: Usually around $70

In addition, an automotive locksmith usually charges a service call or a trip charge which is about $60.

Total estimated cost: $200

 

In conclusion,

Key fobs - Dodge
Key fobs – Dodge

As you can see, the price of replacing and programming a new Dodge key fob or transponder key varies depends on many factors.

Therefore, we highly recommend contacting a few service providers including automotive locksmiths and dealerships for a quote.

Finally, we highly recommend making an extra key while replacing your key as it is much cheaper than making a new one once you lost all your keys.

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I already have a programmed key, I just need a duplicate – Dodge key fob and transponder duplicate key cost

Duplicate Dodge key fob
Duplicate Dodge key fob

 

The price of making a duplicate Dodge key is cheaper than making an original key when all keys are lost for two main reasons:

  1. You already have a cut key – That means no need to “pull” a code from the database.
  2. Your car’s computer already “knows” that one key is authorized to start the car and therefore we can use that key to add some more. (Note that not in all models and years it’s possible)

 

Here is the average cost of getting a duplicate Dodge key from the dealership and an automotive locksmith:

 

Cost of duplicate a Dodge key by the dealer: (Not including the key)
Estimated cost of duplicating Dodge key fob - Dealership
Estimated cost of duplicating Dodge key fob – Dealership

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Dodge car.

Cutting the key: Usually around $20

Programming the key: Usually around $80

Total estimated cost: $100

 

Cost of duplicate a Dodge key by an automotive locksmith: (Not including the key)
Estimated cost of duplicating Dodge key fob - Automotive locksmith
Estimated cost of duplicating Dodge key fob – Automotive locksmith

These are average costs, as it really depends on the year and model of your Dodge car, your location(as a locksmith will come to you) time of day etc.

We checked the prices during regular business hours, the same as we did with the dealer, and here are the results:

Cutting the key: Usually around $10

Programming the key: Usually around $70

In addition, an automotive locksmith usually charges a service call or a trip charge which is usually about $60 or you can drive your car to the locksmith shop and save this expanse which we obviously recommend.

Total estimated cost: $80

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Order Online Now!
Order Online Now!

 

Useful links

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