I recently (about 2 months ago) bought myself a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 Quad Cab with the 5.7L. It has the factory remote which only locks/unlocks the doors, and has a panic button. I want to put a remote start/security package on the . I looked around in my local stores, believe I found a good deal on a Python model 1600. Total cost with the bypass kit was quoted to me at $350 installed. My question is, do I need a bypass kit? My key does not have a chip in it, and the clerk was not 100% sure, but assumed I would need one because it is a 2003 vehicle. The kit itself is about $80 dollars, and if I don't really need it, I will make sure they do not put it in. 80 bucks is 80 bucks, and I need to know for sure before I go back to the store. Thanks.

More info about the key, if needed.

I have 2 keys, and 2 remotes that came with the truck. The keys look like your standard keys, oval at the back and covered with hard black plastic with the ram logo on it. They are almost exactly the same as the 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan I drove for awhile, the only difference is the logo on the plastic. If there is a chip in the Ram key, it must be one of the smallest ever.

 

I'm not sure if this applies to you guys as well but I've been told for most Chrysler vehicles if the key is grey it has the security chip but the black keys do not.

 

I would have to say that my key is one of the that does NOT have the security chip in, due to the description I put above. The main question is, since I lack the security chip, do I still need a bypass kit to install a remote start/security system?

 

Your right. The black keys are not chipped. You do not need a bypass kit if you have a black key. If you want JUST a remote start then look here at this Directed Avital 3-Channel Remote Start System. I watched some Viper remote starts sell for 20-30 last week. If you get a full alarm then I would look for a Viper 5901 or Clifford 50.7x (same units). You can get them BNIB off Ebay for around 250ish