You can find aftermarket keys on Ebay for cheap that have the RFID technology in them. Do a search for "dodge ram key." Then you just need to get the key cut, and program your vehicle computer to recognize the new key as outlined in the owner's manual. As Lesimon says, programming requires two functioning keys, otherwise you need to go to the dealer.

 

^^^ x2

I did the ebay key also. Except I got just the chip key (w/o door fob) since it was cheaper. That way I have three working keys. If I lose a key w/fob, then I'll breakdown and buy the more expensive integrated key/fob and still be able to program it myself.

 

I'm glad my truck uses a cheap key. I keep one hidden on the outside of the truck and it is about impossible to find even if you know the general area it is in. I had the truck at a shop and one of the guys accidentally bumped the lock when he was looking at something. I grabbed my spare and let them in. Well it happened later and they knew I had a spare and looked and looked for it and couldn't find it. So I guess the hiding place is good If I'm worried about someone stealing my truck I'll wire in my own security device, just run the ignition wire through a switch and put the switch somewhere not obvious. If you flip it even if you had a key it wouldn't start. If you tried to hotwire it it still wouldn't start because the wire that usually carries power would be dead.

 

It doesn't matter if they use a key, if they break the ignition cylinder or whatever trick they may use, the PCM will not detect the signal from the resistor and it will shut the truck off. They have been using this since at least 01 (maybe not in the rams though.) Almost every new car company has this as an option, if not standard.

 

I did the ebay key as well. Only problem I had is getting it cut, first time was no problem, guy at home depot even did it for free. Second time around and a few months later the guy at lowes wouldnt do it, said it was illegal(bull$hit) so I took it to another home depot and I had to talk the guy into doing it. He was telling me if you mess up your computer in your car with it home depot didnt want to be responsible.

 

I carry a key in either pocket, so if I want to leave it running with the dog in it I can and still lock it up, I don't even have the key fob thing for the door, I guess I need to get on,or maybe get to remote start with door lock control

 

You got lucky. My 05 does have it. Kinda confusing though. My wife's Jeep Grand has the same type of key, my 02 Ram 1500 SLT had the regular key, and now my 05... I must be an option or a part of an options group. My 05 is a Laramie, though, I'm not that means it's standard equipt.

 

Yeah, I belive they made it so gray keys are have the resistor in them, and the black keys do not (except the black keyless entry keys.)