It’s a common question among Dodge Neon owners, particularly those with models around 2003: can you add a factory Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system if your car didn’t originally come with one? Many owners appreciate the convenience of a key fob for locking and unlocking their doors remotely, and the desire to have a factory-integrated system is understandable.
The confusion often arises because power locks and RKE are distinct systems. Just because your 2003 Dodge Neon has power locks doesn’t automatically mean it has the receiver necessary for remote keyless entry. From the factory, RKE was often an optional feature, meaning some Neons came equipped, and others did not.
If you’re looking to retrofit a factory RKE system, the core question isn’t about whether it was standard, but whether it’s possible to add it now. The good news is, in many cases, it is indeed feasible to retrofit a factory RKE system. You may need to source components like the remote receiver module and, of course, the key fobs themselves. These parts would be the same factory components used in 2003 Dodge Neons that were originally equipped with RKE.
The challenge often lies in finding dealerships that are knowledgeable and willing to assist with this type of retrofit. Some dealerships might mistakenly believe or claim that if your specific 2003 Neon didn’t come with factory RKE, it’s impossible to add it. This is often not the case.
To successfully retrofit factory RKE, you’ll likely need detailed information about the specific parts required for a 2003 Dodge Neon. Equipped with part numbers and system diagrams, you can approach dealerships or independent mechanics with concrete information, making it harder for them to dismiss your request. Be prepared to potentially source the parts yourself if necessary, and then seek professional installation and programming to ensure everything functions correctly. With the right information and persistence, achieving a factory RKE system in your 2003 Dodge Neon is often within reach.
