Let me get to the point. We have lost all sets of keys for our 04 Dodge Neon SXT! So in the meantime, I'm trying to figure out the cheapest way to go about it in acquiring new or used ones. Question....would a set of keys work from a salvage yard? If the key switch is removed from the donor car, along with the keys? Or would it have to be remade from a dodge dealer and reprogrammed? If anyone knows, hit me up on the questions. Thank you.

 

You'll need someone with a DRBIII, and it'll be pricey. The other half of the problem is going to be getting a locksmith out to cut you at least one new key from your locks, or you'll need to change your locks and ignition to a new key (at least the ignition so you can use the car, and locks if you don't want multiple keys for the car).

 

Great! one of the keys surfaced back up....was lost at convenient store and they managed to hang on to it, until we came looking for them....almost a month later. Now I just need to make a spare one.

 

One key is way better than none, but you'll still need a DRBIII. You won't need a locksmith though. Pick up a couple of keys off eBay (I got two shipped for like $15), have 'em cut at a hardware store for a buck, then just pay for programming.

 

Thanks for the info. What kind of estimate will I be looking at for the reprogramming? Ebay would be the cheapest to get the keys from?

 

I guess I lied. Some locksmiths can do the programming, and for cheaper than a dealership. I'd guess $50-$100 just depending who it is. I'd pick up a couple of keys and pay for the programming once for two more. The key you have now will probably be considered your "original," so hang onto that and one extra key. If you have the original and a spare, you can do the programming yourself. I've got 3 keys for each of my cars that have transponder keys, in case this exact situation happens.

EDIT (eBay link): I got the Strattec keys. Proper key with no battery: Keys

 

Here is a post I put in another forum:

Hi All,

I read somewhere that most 2004 Dodge Rams DO NOT have transponders in the key's. That was an option. So I went and had three keys made at $1.80 each. They work fine. I like $1.80 a key a lot better than $175!!!!

Here was my plan if it was a transponder key. (Maybe this will help someone else) Get the cheap non-transponder keys for $1.80 each, then take my one transponder key I have and wire tie it up under the dash near the steering column. Then all the cheap keys should work! I don't know how close the transponder key needs to be to the SKIM module...If wire tying it under the dash did not work my second option was going to be tape it under the steering column with black duct tape.

 

I did something similar for my remote start. Now I can get a key made anywhere for the car for $2.

 

Just make sure you hide it good, and/or cut the actual cut part of the key off so someone who may break into the car can't simply grab the key and start your car with it. I'm talking a smash and grab; not someone really interested in the car because they'll get it either way.

 

But if you cut the key and loose the copies you are screwed. Hide it real good up in the wire bundle and maybe wrap the whole thing with tape or something.