I have a 2008 Dakota, and I have the remote integrated with my key, and I hate it. So, I went to my local locksmith and had him cut a regular key, which works to open the door, and even will start the engine for about a second.... A POX ON WHOMEVER DESIGNED TRANSISTOR KEYS!!! A Double POX on whomever decided it was a good idea to hang the remote on the end of a regular key! So, what options do I have? This is the first vehicle I have had that has had this blighted piece of...er, Technology. I saw a reference to hiding a key in proximity in the remote start thread, what is that about? Can I ziptie a key inside the steering column and have a regular $0.99 key work? Oh, and did I mention A POX ON WHOMEVER DESIGNED TRANSISTOR KEYS!!!

 

Careful upon whom you wish a pox! The designers only filled a need - created by the insurance companies. The transistor keys reduce the ease of stealing your truck. A screwdriver doesn't work anymore.

As for the transmitter integrated with the key, it makes sure that the two don't get separated and lost.

I think your problem is that you are too old-school, you put your keys in your front pocket. You need a Murse (LOL).

Happy Gnu Year!

 

We let the genie out of the bottle, and he ain't goin' back in.

 

Barry,

The Sentry Key System uses ignition keys which have an embedded electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if someone uses an invalid key to try to start the engine.

A key which has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle. You can program a key yourself as instructions are provided on page 17 of the Owner's Manual.

For any additional technical inquiries I would recommend reviewing with a Dodge dealer.

 

You can get Chip Keys, that look like Normal keys. (the ones with the Rubber top)
This is what my truck came with, and it is a Chip Key. As a Un-programmed one only runs it for a few seconds. I dotn have electronic locks, or a remote start, Hence why I dont have the FOB Keys.
I bought 4 additional ones now off Ebay. Along with my 2 OEM keys. The first 2 off Ebay broke, Only lasted a year, But for $25 for both, I dont mind lol
Programming them is simple, you just need to PROGRAMMED keys.

 

fify.

 

haha I didnt even notice I put to, not two.

 

The key I had cut is a straight brass key, no rubber or anything, using the same key blank as the rest of my stable. I do already have 2 programmed keys, so I ought to be able to make more, but I haven't done that... It's funny you mention the manual, considering the "largest dodge dealer in Indiana" was unable to provide me one. They told me "You can probably download one from somewhere on the internet." LOL

I stand by my POX on whomever came up with that idea. It's not as bad as my Mercedes - those cost $300 and take 2-3 weeks, but IMHO a key should be a key, and items with partial function suck. Having to pay ALOT more money for a less convenient replacement, sucks. I don't want a monstrous, fat head on my key, I don't even like the small(er) rubber covered variety.

 

Here is a link for the Owners Manual download.

 

Thanks for the link, but I already found it here. I was more making a comment on the irony of the "largest dealer in Indiana" being unable to come up with a manual themselves, not that I wasn't aboe to find one on my own.