Jeep Cherokee Lost Car Key Replacement – All the Information You Need to Get a New Jeep Cherokee Key. Tips, Costs, Your Options, and More.

Jeep Cherokee car keys replacement

Jeep Cherokee car keys replacement

 

Call Us Now: 800-223-1453

 

In this article:

Jeep Cherokee replacement car keys – Introduction

Jeep Cherokee keys replacement by year – not sure which key you had: Was it a regular key, transponder chip, or remote key fob? Find out here

Automotive locksmith coding a Jeep Cherokee key fob

Automotive locksmith coding a Jeep Cherokee key fob

Have you lost your Jeep Cherokee car key? – How do I get a replacement key? What options do I have?

Jeep Cherokee key replacement near me – things to remember before calling a locksmith

Jeep Cherokee car key replacement cost

Key coding and programming machine for Jeep Cherokee keys

Key coding and programming machine for Jeep Cherokee keys

Tips for Jeep Cherokee key fob replacement – What to ask and verify before and after you get a new key fob

Can I get a replacement Jeep Cherokee key by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

2021 Jeep Cherokee key fob

2021 Jeep Cherokee key fob

Jeep Cherokee key programming – which keys can you program yourself? how to program your key & more.

Keyless entry information Jeep Cherokee

Remote key fob for a Jeep Cherokee

Remote key fob for a Jeep Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee key fob battery replacement – How do I change or replace the battery? What is the cost? What size is the battery? And more.

 

Introduction:

Jeep Cherokee key replacement - All you need to know

Jeep Cherokee was introduced in 1974. This model has two versions and eleven types of keys.

Remote key fobs: 2014 to 2023.

Transponder chip keys: 1998 to 2001; 2014 to 2019.

Non-transponder keys: 1985 to 2001.

Jeep transponder key coded by an automotive locksmith

Jeep transponder key coded by an automotive locksmith

    • Please keep in mind that while some keys or key fobs may look the same, they have different capabilities/frequencies/keyways. Therefore, having the right key or key fob is essential.
    • Already have your key? Need information to guide you through programming your Jeep Cherokee key fob or transponder key?
MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Jeep models

MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for Jeep models

 

Quick access or go to FAQ

 

Click on the type of key you had or your year model below to get the most accurate information:

 

Jeep Cherokee w/Prox:

 

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023: (GQ4-54T)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 Jeep Cherokee remote key fob replacement (GQ4-54T)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 Jeep Cherokee remote key fob replacement (GQ4-54T)

 

 

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021: (GQ4-53T)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 Jeep Cherokee remote key fob replacement (GQ4-53T)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 Jeep Cherokee remote key fob replacement (GQ4-53T)

 

 

 

Jeep Cherokee w/o Prox:

 

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019: (Y164-PT)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 Jeep Cherokee transponder key replacement (Y164-PT)

2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 Jeep Cherokee transponder key replacement (Y164-PT)

 

 

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001: (Y160-PT)

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Jeep Cherokee transponder key replacement (Y160-PT)

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Jeep Cherokee transponder key replacement (Y160-PT)

 

 

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001: (P1795/Y159)

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1795/Y159) - (plastic cover)

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1795/Y159) – (plastic cover)

 

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997: (P1794/Y157)

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1794/Y157)

1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1794/Y157)

 

1992, 1993: (P1793/Y155)

1992, 1993 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1793/Y155)

1992, 1993 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1793/Y155)

 

1991, 1992: (P1789/Y154)

1991, 1992 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1789/Y154)

1991, 1992 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1789/Y154)

 

Door/Trunk:

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990: (S1970AM/RA3)

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (S1970AM/RA3)

1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (S1970AM/RA3)

 

Ignition:

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990: (P1098J/B46)

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1098J/B46)

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (P1098J/B46)

 

1985: (1970AM/RA4)

1985 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (1970AM/RA4)

1985 Jeep Cherokee non-transponder key replacement (1970AM/RA4)

 

 

Call Us 24/7: 800-223-1453

 

FAQ:

 

Q: I lost my Jeep Cherokee car keys. I don’t have a spare, so need a replacement. How and where can I get a replacement key?

How to get a Jeep Cherokee replacement key

 

Generally speaking, you have three options:

First, call an automotive locksmith near you that offers a mobile service for Jeep Cherokee cars. We can connect you with a locksmith near you.

Second, tow the car to a Jeep dealership.

Third, order a key online and have the dealer or locksmith cut and program it for you (if necessary).

A word of caution: The type of key you need depends on the year and model of your Jeep Cherokee. Therefore, the options for getting a new key made and programmed depend on whether you need a remote key fob, a transponder chip key, or a regular metal key.

 

Let’s review each option.
Locksmith:
Jeep Cherokee key fob coding by an automotive locksmith

Jeep Cherokee key fob coding by an automotive locksmith

An automotive locksmith can make most car keys on-site, including keys for the newest Jeep Cherokee models. Most automotive locksmiths offer a mobile service because most Jeep Cherokee keys made after 1998 need to be programmed or coded to the car.

This Coding process can’t be done remotely and involves connecting the coding machine physically to the car’s OBD (like in the picture below) and therefore the car must be present.

Car OBD and coding machine

Car OBD and coding machine

Saying that, you will have to make sure that the locksmith carries the necessary equipment to cut and program a replacement key, including the right coding machine (e.g. AD100 Pro Car Key Programmer or LAUNCH X431 PRO5) and the right key blank (remote key fob or chip key).

The best way to do that is to provide the locksmith with the year make and model or VIN number when you call.

Because Jeep Cherokee is a very common car, chances are they will have the right key blank for your model.

"Lishi tools" used by an automotive locksmith to decode Jeep Cherokee keys

“Lishi tools” used by an automotive locksmith to decode Jeep Cherokee keys

Usually, a locksmith would be your fastest, most convenient and cheapest option overall to get a replacement key.

 

Order the key online:
New Jeep Cherokee key fob on a cutting machine

New Jeep Cherokee key fob on a cutting machine

Today you can get most Jeep Cherokee keys online (with the exception of the most recent model) and relatively fast within 24 Hr. Getting a replacement key online has its pros and cons.

This option is mostly relevant for people who need a duplicate or spare key and can drive the car.

For people who have lost their Jeep Cherokee keys and don’t have a spare, it may not be as relevant.

The reason is because when you order a key online, it is what we call a “blank key”.

A blank key is a key that needs to be cut, and, as mentioned above for most Jeep Cherokee keys made after 1998, programmed or coded with a special machine.

Lonsdor coding machine for Jeep Cherokee car keys

Therefore, ordering a replacement key online is only the first step. You will still have to contact and pay either the dealer or locksmith to have the key cut and programmed.

Moreover, remember that although many car keys may look alike, they have different security features and chip values. This is especially true for remote key fobs sold online and so it’s very easy for most people to get confused and order the wrong key.

 

The third option- Jeep dealership:

The last option to get a Jeep Cherokee key replacement without the original is to look for a Jeep dealership near you.

The plus side is that they will have the right key blank in stock and should be able to program the key for you as well, even for the latest model as they carry the newest coding machines for Jeep models.

Advanced Diagnostics "Smart Pro" coding machine for Jeep Cherokee car keys

Advanced Diagnostics “Smart Pro” coding machine for Jeep Cherokee car keys

The downside is that the dealership usually charges more for a replacement key than a locksmith would.

Another major downside of getting a replacement key at the dealership is that if you had a transponder chip key or key fob (or in other words if your car was made after 1998 as explained above) you will have to tow the car there, which will make the process even more expansive.

Jeep Cherokee transponder key on a computer operated cutting machine

Jeep Cherokee transponder key on a computer operated cutting machine

In conclusion,

If your Jeep Cherokee had a chip key or key fob, and you need a replacement ASAP, a locksmith would be your best bet.

The only exception for that is if you just bought a brand-new car, and then a Jeep Cherokee dealer would be the best way.

In case you only need a spare key, you can try and get it online, but make sure you know exactly which key blank or part number you need.

 

Not ready to call for service just yet? Click here for some GREAT ideas on how to find lost car keys.

Tool to check chip value of Jeep car key

Tool to check chip value of Jeep car key

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Q: Jeep Cherokee key replacement near me – How to find a locksmith or dealer and what should you tell them?

Jeep Cherokee key replacement service near your location - Tips

First, make sure you have the exact year, make, and model, e.g., 2021 Jeep Cherokee w/Prox.

In addition, write down the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car located on the left side of the dashboard near the mirror. The VIN helps the locksmith or dealer verify the year, make, and model of the car and determine which key you had.

Check a few locksmiths near your location

Also, keep in mind that many locksmiths offer mobile service and travel up to 30 miles radius from where their store is located. Therefore, depends on your location, it might be a good idea to expand your search and call for a few additional quotes, even if on the map, these locksmiths seems to be far from you.

All Jeep Cherokee key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with the car on-site

All Jeep Cherokee key fobs and transponder keys must be coded with the car on-site

Remember,

Their distance as you see on the map, is their business address, not their physical and current location. All you have to make sure, is that they carry the right equipment to cut and program your Jeep Cherokee key.

You can also try and call a few Jeep dealers near your location, but remember that you will need to tow the car there.

Jeep car key coding machine

Jeep car key coding machine

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

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Q: Jeep Cherokee key replacement cost – How much does it cost to replace a Jeep Cherokee key without the original? What is the average price?

Jeep Cherokee key replacement cost - estimate only

 

In short, replacing a Jeep Cherokee key can cost between $130 to $450. The cost depends on a number of factors:
  1. The type of key you need
  2. The car’s year of manufacture
  3. Time of day & your location
  4. Where you get a key replacement (dealer, automotive locksmith, online, etc.)
  5. Availability of code to cut a new key
  6. Original ignition or not

Factors to consider about key replacement cost

The type of key you had and the year the car was manufactured are the most important factors for identifying if you need a chip, intelligent fob, “push to start”, remote, regular “non-transponder” key. The newer the car is, the better the security features the key has. On later models, you can therefore expect to pay more than $250 for a replacement key.

Jeep Cherokee key fobs are more expensive to replace than transponder keys

Jeep Cherokee key fobs are more expensive to replace than transponder keys

Also,

the price depends on where you get a key replacement. Did your replacement key come from the dealer, or an automotive locksmith? Or did you get it online? Click here to get a more detailed explanation of how to get a replacement key.

All Jeep key fobs and transponder keys must be coded on site with a special machine like in this picture

All Jeep key fobs and transponder keys must be coded on site with a special machine like in this picture

The dealer usually charges about 10% to 15% less for the replacement key than a locksmith would charge. However, you will likely have to tow the car there to program the new key or remote. Therefore, the total price is usually higher.

Ignition cylinder parts

Ignition cylinder parts

Furthermore,

consider that if you have a locksmith come out and make you a new key outside regular business hours, the price may increase.

Finally,

If you have previously had your ignition cylinder replaced, which is quite common in older cars, this probably means that the code for the key may not be useful. In such cases, the key will have to be cut manually by a locksmith, or you will have to change the ignition again, and here the dealer can’t help.

Rekey kit to change Jeep Cherokee ignition cylinder parts

Rekey kit to change Jeep Cherokee ignition cylinder parts

For a more detailed explanation and GREAT TIPS on how to save money, please visit our blog post: Car keys replacement costs

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Tips for Jeep Cherokee key fob replacement – What to ask and verify before and after you get a new key fob:

Jeep Cherokee key fob replacement - Emergency key, chip and battery

Jeep Cherokee key fob replacement – Emergency key, chip and battery

Very often when people get a replacement key fob, there are certain things they forget to check and ask the dealer or locksmith.

 

We gathered here the most relevant information and tips to make sure you won’t face a problem down the road.
First,

Make sure to get the key code of your Jeep Cherokee key fob – Every key fob, has a unique code which locksmiths and dealers use to know the exact cuts to match your ignition, door and trunk cylinders.

Ask and keep your key code in a safe place

Obviously, this code is different from one car to another. This key code costs money, and before the locksmith or dealer cut you a new key fob, they must pay to get the code from the Jeep database, which may cost them up to $100. Make sure you write down this key code and keep it in a safe place. In case you lose your Jeep Cherokee key fob again in the future, it will cost you less to get a replacement, and the process will be faster.

The key fob on the inside, chip and emergency key - Jeep

The key fob on the inside, chip and emergency key – Jeep

Second,

Verify they cut you the emergency key, and that it works on the doors cylinders and trunk – Every key fob comes with an emergency key attached to it. The emergency key can be used to access the car in case the battery is dead.

Verify the emergency key is working smoothly on all cylinders

Verify the emergency key is working smoothly on all cylinders

Uncut emergency key on cutting machine - Automotive locksmith

Uncut emergency key on cutting machine – Automotive locksmith

Sometimes, when locksmiths or dealers program a new replacement key fob, they forget to cut the emergency key as well.

Emergency key after it was cut

Emergency key after it was cut

Make sure they cut you the emergency key and that it works for each door and the trunk to avoid a future lockout situation. It should work smoothly, just like your house key. Don’t be lazy, check it on site.

Emergency key cut - Make sure they cut it for you and check it works

Emergency key cut – Make sure they cut it for you and check it works

Finally,

know which battery your Jeep Cherokee key fob has – These key fobs, like all key fobs, are battery operated. Make sure you know the type of battery you need and keep a spare one. (Jeep Cherokee key fobs usually use CR-2032 battery).

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Q: Can I get a Jeep Cherokee key replacement by its VIN?

Jeep Cherokee key replacement by VIN

A: That depends on the year of manufacture of your car and the type of key you had.

The VIN gives dealers or automotive locksmiths the option of accessing the key code on file – i.e., to cut you a replacement key by code which makes the process fast and easy. There are however two things to consider:

  1. If your vehicle is older than 10 years, Jeep dealers will no longer have its key code record, so an automotive locksmith will be your only option to get a replacement key.

    Jeep key replacement by VIN is possible but coding is needed

    Jeep key replacement by VIN is possible but coding is needed

  2. For vehicles equipped with a transponder system and/or a remote/intelligent key/fob key, the codes should be available. However, as coding is required, you will have to either tow the car to the dealer, or have an automotive locksmith come and code the key on site.

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Q: Jeep Cherokee key programming – which keys can you program yourself? Which keys require a programming tool? & more

Automotive locksmith programming a Jeep Cherokee key on-site

A: Jeep Cherokee has different types of keys. Some require programming, and some don’t. All transponder chip keys and/or smart key fobs need to be programmed. This process requires a special programming machine that only an automotive locksmith or the dealer has. There is no need to program non-transponder metal keys.

Key coding machine for Jeep key fobs and transponder keys

Key coding machine for Jeep key fobs and transponder keys

To make things simple, we divided all Jeep Cherokee keys into two categories:

  1. No programming needed (Non-transponder keys).
  2. Keys that need to be programmed (Transponder or remote keys). These keys required the expertise of an automotive locksmith or the dealer.

 

No programming needed:
Car key cutting machine

Car key cutting machine

Jeep non-transponder keys are metal keys that have no chip in them, so no programming is needed.

P1795/Y159, P1794/Y157, P1793/Y155, P1789/Y154, P1098J/B46, 1970AM/RA4, S1970AM/RA3.

 

For Jeep Cherokee keys that need to be programmed, you will need an automotive locksmith or the dealer:
Car key coding machine for Jeep key fobs and transponder keys

Car key coding machine for Jeep key fobs and transponder keys

These keys, also known as remote smart keys, intelligent keys or key fobs, and transponder keys, have a security chip. Programming is needed. Also, a special machine is needed to program them. An automotive locksmith or dealer should do it for you. This process must be followed for most models made after 1998.

GQ4-54T, GQ4-53T, Y164-PT, Y160-PT.

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Q: I have a Jeep Cherokee key and would like to get a keyless entry system to unlock all doors as well. Can you tell me which one I should get? Will it need to be programmed and can I program it myself or not?

A: Jeep Cherokee has a few keyless entry system options. For newer car models, the key you have contains a built-in keyless entry system (a remote master key or key fob/smart key). Some need to be programmed by a professional locksmith or dealer and some don’t. Below you will find all the information relevant to the Jeep Cherokee entry system.

 

Keyless entry information for the Jeep Cherokee:
Keyless entry information Jeep Cherokee

Keyless entry information Jeep Cherokee

Jeep Cherokee has three keyless entry remotes. Choose the year of your car:

For year models 2014 to 2022, there is a built-in keyless entry in the remote key fobs and transponder chip key.

1999 to 2001: GQ43VT9T (Choose Method B)

1997 to 1998: GQ43VT10T (No self-programming – automotive locksmith or dealer only)

1991 to 1996: CHRY-1276 RC (No self-programming – automotive locksmith or dealer only)

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Jeep Cherokee key fob battery – important information: How to replace, size, cost, and more.

Key fob batteries

Jeep Cherokee model has different kinds of keys. If your model uses a key fob or a transponder key, here is some important information you should know about the battery.

 

There are 2 types of keys that are battery operated:

 

Key fob: (like in the picture below)
Jeep Cherokee remote key fob battery replacement information

Jeep Cherokee remote key fob battery replacement information

 

Watch a short video here: how to replace Jeep key fob battery, type of battery and more:

How to replace the battery - Easy DYI video

 

Remote key fob: (like in the following picture)
Jeep Cherokee remote key fob battery replacement information

Jeep Cherokee remote key fob battery replacement information

 

Watch a short video here: how to replace Jeep key fob battery, type of battery and more: (Used for Chrysler, Dodge & Jeep)

How to replace the battery - Easy DYI video

 

Transponder chip key: (like in the picture below)
Jeep Cherokee transponder key battery replacement information

Jeep Cherokee transponder key battery replacement information

 

Watch a short video here: how to replace this transponder key battery, type of battery and more:

How to replace the battery - Easy DYI video

 

Things to remember when your Jeep Cherokee key fob battery is dead:

First, even if the key fob’s battery is dead, you still can unlock and start your Cherokee. You can use the emergency key provided with the key fob to unlock the doors as shown below:

Jeep fob emergency key

Jeep fob emergency key

 

The key fob on the inside - battery , chip and emergency key (Fobik)

The key fob on the inside – battery , chip and emergency key (Fobik)

 

How to start Jeep Cherokee with a dead key fob?
Push the "start" button with your dead key fob to start the car like in this picture

Push the “start” button with your dead key fob to start the car like in this picture

You can start your Jeep Cherokee by pushing the “Start” button with your key fob. The car’s computer recognizes the chip inside the key fob and authorizes the process.

All Jeep key fobs can start the car even if the battery is dead

All Jeep key fobs can start the car even if the battery is dead

This way, you will be able to start your vehicle EVEN if the key fob battery is dead.

 

For Jeep Cherokee models that use Fobik key like in the picture below:
Jeep Cherokee Fobik key - Can still start the car even if the battery is dead

Jeep Cherokee Fobik key – Can still start the car even if the battery is dead

First,

Take the cover off, like in the picture below:

Gently remove the key cover

Gently remove the key cover

 

Expose the designated spot for the Fobik

Expose the designated spot for the Fobik

Second,

Insert the Fobik and turn, clock wise, like in the picture below:

Insert the Fobik and turn clock wise to start the car

Insert the Fobik and turn clock wise to start the car

 

Jeep Cherokee key battery information:

Car key battery replacement variety

Jeep Cherokee key fobs and transponder key are battery operated. Every two years or so, or when the battery is low, you may need to change the key battery. Here is all the information you need.

The type of battery you need is a CR-2032. The average price for these batteries is about $5.

You can order CR-2032 online here.

Also, you can find it at Home Depot, Walmart, AutoZone, etc.

 

Here is some general information about the Jeep Cherokee key battery:

Type of battery: CR-2032 lithium

CR-2032 key battery replacement

CR-2032 key battery replacement

Size: Diameter – 20 mm, height – 3.2 mm

Finally, remember that your battery life depends on several factors such as usage, weather conditions, etc. To better protect your Jeep Cherokee key and extend its battery life, it may be a good idea to have a key cover or a case. You can order a key fob cover here.

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