Lost Car Keys Replacement

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

Freightliner Non-Transponder Car Key Replacement RA3

RA3 non chip key

Table of Contents

Freightliner Non-Chip Key RA3 - Overview

Non transponder keys overview

The RA3 key is a non-transponder key, mostly used for Freightliner models made BEFORE 2005. It is used for different models and different years.

As this key does not have a transponder chip – there is no need for it to be programmed or coded to start your vehicle.

RA3 is sold under a few additional names, depending on the manufacturer – Cole RA3, Curtis RA-3, Dominion S970AM, ESP RA3, Ilco S1970AM, Ilco EZ RA3, Jet RA3, JMA AMM-2, Orion BT11, Silca RB3, Star OBR11, Strattec 320561, Taylor 99B. However, RA3 is the most common one.

Key blank (for online purchase): RA3 (Click to order online)

Where can I get a new car key made?

How to get a non transponder key replacement

Generally speaking, you have three options:

First, call an automotive locksmith – in most cases, this would be your best choice since most dealers do not keep codes for older models on file. 

Second, order the key online – you can order a key blank online and then call a locksmith to cut it for you. However, please keep in mind that this will not save you much money as it’s a pretty cheap key anyway and the locksmith will probably have some in stock.

Third, dealer – most dealers do not keep key codes for older models (more than 10 years) on file. However, it’s worth a try.

Is programming or coding needed for the RA3 key? Does this key have a chip in it? Will it needed to be coded to the car?

Non coding is needed for this key

This RA3 is a non-transponder key and therefore no programming or coding is needed. In addition, if you have the key security code (and if you don’t you can sometimes get it from a dealer), you can take it to a local locksmith and they should be able to cut you a key on site.

How much does it usually cost?

We checked the average price for this key with dealers, automotive locksmiths and online. Needless to say, the price varies and depends on where you get it, the time of day, and your location (mobile locksmith service or dealer).

The prices mentioned below are only rough estimates.

Dealer Price:

If the dealer has the security code on file – it should cost no more than $45. However, dealers don’t usually keep records of key codes for cars that are more than 10 years old.

Locksmith Price:

On-site, mobile service – typically around $35 for the service call out plus about $50 for labor and the key itself.

Locksmith shop (where the locksmith has the key code on file): About $50.

Online Price:

(Uncut): About $3.

I already have a working key. Can I get a duplicate made at the hardware store/locksmith shop/dealership and will it start the car?

Auto locksmith copy new car key
Locksmith key copy machine

Yes. As RA3 is a non-transponder key you can make copies at any hardware store or locksmith shop.

In addition, we recommend making extra copies and keeping the key code in a safe place in case you lose your car keys in the future.

What information will I need to give the locksmith or dealer when I call for the service?

Information to provide a locksmith

First, make sure you have the exact year, make, and model, e.g., 2004 Freightliner Argosy. In addition, write down the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car which you can find on the left side of the dashboard near the side mirror. The VIN will help the locksmith or dealer verify the year, make, and model of the car.

It’s important to ask if you can come and pick up the key, or if the car has to be present. When key codes are not available (as happens with older models), an onsite service may be required to make a new key.

You can, of course, tow the car to the locksmith shop, but that would be more expensive.

Finally, make sure you can show ownership of the car by having the necessary documents – the title, ID, insurance card, etc.