What's the easiest way to get a spare key fob?

Question

I bought a used Jeep that has a key fob. It's got four buttons: lock, unlock, panic, and the 2x button that starts it, it comes with that sentry thing where the doors unlock as soon as I touch it, and it also has the emergency key that's tucked inside it. The used car salesman told me it only comes with one and he can't order a new one, but the manual said you can have duplicates if they're programmed right from an "authorized dealer." I'd like to have a spare key just for the piece of mind. If I lose or damage my main key, I'd rather just use the spare to turn it on, than get it towed to a dealer.
Do I have to go to one of those Jeep dealers that sell brand new ones? I'd rather not, because every time I went to one, I got treated like a piece of crap because I didn't want to buy an expensive car. I'm willing to drop a few hundred bucks for one, but probably not if it goes over $500.

y · Answer

If you have two working fobs, you can program a third(extra). They are relatively inexpensive and you can order them online. They will have all the instructions and such you need. If you only have one(chipped) functioning fob, then you do have to take it to the dealership, I have seen 4 to 600 charged for them.

John Alden · Answer

Easiest? Drive to your local dealer and order one.

CactiJoe · Answer

Amazon. It comes with instruction on how to program it. If you do this, then your old FOB will not work.

thebax2006 · Answer

You're not dealing with salesmen. Call the parts department and have your VIN handy to give to them so they can order you the correct parts. After the parts come in pick them up and on the way out speak with a Service Writer to make an appointment to get them programmed to the vehicle.

Free Advice · Answer

you tube a tutorial

Uncle Pennybags · Answer

Locksmiths can often make these.  Not all the time, but many times.

I'd try there first.

? · Answer

Parts Counter of  the Dealership  of your  Kind of  vehicle

Anonymous · Answer

Dealer only if you need new keys.

Anonymous · Answer

It has to be a Jeep dealer, depending upon the age of your model it may also be possible for an automotive locksmith to supply and program the car to the key.

You did read that correctly: the car gets programmed to recognise the key, not the other way around. When you get that done make sure they wipe all other keys from the system and only leave the one you have and the one you are buying.

The key comes as two separate parts: the key fob which has the electronics and the key blade. Aftermarket fobs/keyheads do need programming to set the electronics to meet Jeep technical requirements, after which the car can be programmed to recognise it.

Unfortunately it’s not cheap. But there’s no other way. As you’re only buying a single key fob and blade it will likely fall within your budget.

If it’s an older model, then it may have the less secure system where fobs get programmed to the car. That can be a lot cheaper as on the least secure systems you can even secondhand fobs which have been reprogrammed.

I strongly suggest that you join an online Jeep owners’ forum where you can get excellent advice from experienced owners.

Anonymous · Answer

The easiest way is to get over your social anxiety, call the parts department at a Jeep dealer, and ask the price. If you're not willing to pay it, look for alternatives online. Internet keyword searches aren't exactly rocket science. Amazon probably has them but either Jeep or a locksmith has to program it.

What's the easiest way to get a spare key fob?

12 Answers