I just an 06 Dakota and only got 1 key with it. It is black and has the keyless entry on it. My question is is there a way to tell if the truck has The Sentry Immobilizer System in it or is it just a nrmal key with a remote on it?

 

Typically the black keyed Dodges are not sentry. The sentry keys are gray I believe. Otherwise I honestly have no clue how to test for it other than taking the shroud around the column off and looking for a black plastic ring around the ignition

 

Look for a 1/4 inch or 4mm Red Light with no text that lights up briefly near your speedometer when you turn your key. If that is there, you will need a transponder key. And if you do, you cannot simply buy one and program it yourself. Another key can only be programmed by you if you already have 2 working keys.

I too recently got my 08 and it only came with 1 key. My dealership wanted me to buy the key for around $150 and then there was going to be a $59 programming charge. Mine was a 4 button key because it had the factory remote start as well. What I did was buy THIS KEY and he accepted my offer of $65. This seller also offers 3 button remotes as well HERE If you happen to be real lucky and can use a key without a transponder, he has them as well HERE I then found a locksmith that cut the key, programmed it to the truck and I also bought a valet key from him, had it cut and programmed, and for both keys including purchasing the valet key, cutting and programming both, he charged me a whopping $60. Not bad. It took calling a bunch of locksmiths because most of them wanted me to buy the remote key from them and then programming was going to cost at least $90 or better.

 

Yeah dealer only gave me 1 key when I bought mine... of course not informing me before the paperwork was signed. I had it cut and programmed by a locksmith for $120 here, which included key. I could have brought him a key, but if something happened where the key didn't cut properly or for some reason the FCC ID was wrong and wouldn't work I'd have to get another and it was just easier to get it from them and not deal with the hassle (I know my luck with these types of things lol).

Edit: I believe I have the black key.

 

Simple. Unlock the door with the key, not the remote. If the alarm sounds, you have a sentry system. Sorry guys but, a dealer trying to sell a vehicle with only 1 key and/or trying to charge me for a second key would be a deal breaker for me. Cars/trucks come with 2 keys and a reputable dealer should furnish 2 keys, no charge.

 

Was out with a buddy yesterday and they are thinking of getting rid of their Caravan. He told me that it only came with one remote too! Stealership tried to get extra for a second. He nearly walked out so they threw it in! For crying out loud! They advertise that their base cars/trucks/vans come with remote keyless entry as standard, they don't tell you that your wife can't get in!

 

Yeah I was kinda miffed about it too... but now I know when I buy a used car... does it come with two keys if not... I walk.

The other thing I didn't even think of when I bought it was look for the jack and tools. Since it was a CPO I didn't think to check. Sure enough right before a trip I decided might be good to check everything including the spare... and what do you know no tools. So I called ripped the dealer up and called Dodge and of course Dodge gives me well it's a used vehicle and we have nothing to do with it. The stealership did finally give me the jack and tools though.

 

Lcoopers,

If you want to PM me your Vin I will send you a build sheet. That will have all the options listed including if the Sentry key was included.