We lost the keys to our 96 Dakota need a way to change the switch out without tearing the column up.

Any help is appreciated.

 

No sorry no easy way to do it. But if you lost the key you may be able to contact your local Dodge dealer and see if they can make you a new key from the code. If not then take your truck to a locksmith some can figure out the key code from the ignition switch without removing it. Or maybe just remove the door lock or glove box lock that may be enough for a replacement key to be made from the lock.

I will move this to the 1st generation Dakota sub-forum.

 

why wasnt one in your wallet? course the wallet is on a chain.

 

you should be able to take your vin to the dodge dealership and they can make one up specifically for your vehicle. when i was running my own shop i had to do that numerous times. cheap and easy...

 

just go to the dealer with your registration and id (proof of ownership) and they can cut you a key. it's no problem for them to do it at all. your truck doesn't even have to leave the driveway

 

I went to the JY and got a replacement ignition switch both the electrical part and the lock part. It is very little to take apart on that column, 2 or 3 Phillips screws for the column jackets
the steering wheel dont even have to come off.

and if the ign has ever been replaced then the "take the VIN to the dealer" will not work. they may cut a key but it may not work.

Also remember that the door locks can be changed to match a key but the ignition cannot so you will either need to find that original key to work the doors (have 2 keys like a Furd or GM) or else take your door locks out and have them re pinned to match the new ignition lock. only costs a few dollars per door if you pull the locks yourself, and take them into the locksmith.