Just purchased a 2008 Dodge Avenger SXT. Everything runs great. Still exploring it in detail.

It comes with two fob keys (with buttons). One key for me, one for my wife... I needed anextra key made for my son.
I had an extra key made, but just the basic key (no buttons). Figuring it was just a spare key at time of purchase.

If the car is locked with either the remote fob keyor the in-car electronic switches, the theft deterrent arms itself. His basic key will open the door but always sets off the theft deterrent. (Even though it is a legitimate key.) So if he or a passenger uses the electronic locks somewhere in town, I'd have to travel to the car to make it driveable again. Or, beingthe night owl that he is, if hetries to use the car it wakes the neighbors.

And yes, one-by-one the friendly dealership staff came out scratching their heads on this one, so I'm asking here. Any ideas, suggestions, alternatives?

So far, the only 3 options I've been offered are:
1) Lock the doors with the manual plungers, always.
2) Have the dealership disable the deterrent system.
3) Purchase another fob style key.

It just seems like an annoyance to have to have a $130 extra key madevs. negating functionalityI've already paid for (automatic locks, keyless lock/entry).

It is just a spare key. And so far I'm happy this is my only gripe about the vehicle.

And a side question...Does Dodge have patch upgrades to car computer software? Can this be fixed with version 1.3 or whatever when I take it in for maintenance?

 

lets see they dont put key switches in the doors ne more from what i can see on the wire diagram so that why the alarm goes off as u open the door. Try this open the door like u would with the an orginal key and stick in the ign and turn the key to start. I bet the alarm will stop going off and the car will start. If that works I know why they would have it setup like that and I will tell u if that is the case.
Next U can not disable the alarm system what so ever its a built in function and unless u replace all computers that have the alarm code burnt into it the car wont start.
3rd yes dodge,chrysler,jeep can update computers they have been able to do that sence 1996 and now with the newer systems 99 and up just about ne computer can be updated.
SO if what i said was right above there is nothing wrong with the system thats how it was built and if the little experment works I will tell u why.

 

There is a chip inside your key, that is why it won't work.

 

Here's a hack for your FOB http://lifehacker.com/software/annoy...ton-257792.php
I can't stand the freakin horn either. Wait, I just realized this isn't going to help you with your son.lol

 

Here's a link that mentions pulling the fuse for the alarm http://www.ehow.com/how_112650_shut-car-alarm.html

 

lol...thanks SueK. I'm also trying to disable the lock chirp, and the manual instructions don't work. So thanks for the alternatives everyone.

 

You're welcome! This is the first car I ever bought with the alarm and I'm finding for some reason I don't like it. lol

 

Had everyone bought the "Premium Convenience Group" u can turn horn on/off via cluster display.

 

I think I got the the inconvience group.lol No I think I'm getting used to or I've learn how to work the thing so it won't beep lol

 

If you use the "Step" button on the console under the climate controls, you can go through the preferences and shut off the horn with locking.
I was happy when I stumbled across that one.

P.S. You must be in park to go through these programming menus, otherwise you can only see items like tire pressure, temp, etc.