I have an 05 Dakota SLT with a bad key immoblizer. The service manual said that the VTSS can be disabled with a scan tool. All the local shops say their scan tools won't do that. What kind of scan tool do I need?

 

Saw the bit about it being in a dormant state until enabled, but must have glossed over the part about being able to disable it. Regardless, my money is on that you will need the Chrysler StarScan tool. They usually pop up on eBay for $1,500 or so. I'm sure a local dealership could do it, but there may be some liability they are trying to avoid. Also, I know a friend with a Mazda who did a similar thing, and he got into an accident and his insurance company wouldn't cover the cost of repairs until he re-enabled his anti theft. Something about living in a statistically crime sensitive neighbourhood that made his contract with them null. So that may be an issue as well.

Probably cheaper just to get a new key programmed (I had mine done for $150), or SKREEM unit, if that's the fault.

 

The SKREEM is not available until at least August 2021 and that is not a guarantee.

 

Salvage yard?