Losing or damaging your car key fob can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to your Dodge Journey. Like many car owners, you might find yourself needing a replacement key fob for your Dodge Journey. Initially, when we bought our Journey, it came with only one key. This is a common situation, and thankfully, getting a spare or replacement key fob for your Dodge Journey is manageable. This guide will walk you through your options for obtaining a key fob for your Dodge Journey, from dealership programming to DIY methods and recall considerations.
Initially facing the single key issue, we explored purchasing additional keys online from platforms like eBay and Amazon. These marketplaces offer a range of aftermarket key fobs for various vehicles, including the Dodge Journey. We opted to buy two keys and decided to visit a dealership for programming. Dealership programming can be convenient, but it’s worth noting that costs can vary. In our experience, we were charged $50 for programming one key, with the dealership clearly stating that the fee applied regardless of whether the programming was successful. This highlights the importance of understanding the potential costs upfront when choosing dealership programming for your Dodge Journey key fob.
However, there’s a more cost-effective approach for Dodge Journey owners who already have two working key fobs. Once you have two functioning keys, you can program spare key fobs yourself. The procedure is readily available online with a quick search and is surprisingly straightforward. This DIY programming method can save you significant money and time compared to dealership visits for every spare key.
Interestingly, during a recall service for our Dodge Journey, we discovered an opportunity related to key fobs. The recall paperwork indicated that the dealership would replace any keys programmed to the vehicle that were in our possession. Crucially, the documentation didn’t specify that these keys had to be original equipment manufacturer (OEM) keys. Despite some initial back-and-forth with the dealership, and after contacting FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), we successfully had our aftermarket spare keys replaced under the recall. This experience suggests that it’s worthwhile to inquire about key fob replacement coverage during any Dodge Journey recalls, even for non-OEM keys.
It’s important to remember that there’s a limit to the number of key fobs that can be programmed to your Dodge Journey’s Wireless Ignition Module (WIM). Typically, this limit is around 7 or 8 keys. Once this limit is reached, you won’t be able to program any additional key fobs. This is a good piece of information to keep in mind, especially if you are considering programming multiple spare keys for your Dodge Journey.
In our journey with the Dodge Journey, we also invested in mid-level scan tools like the Autel MD802 and Foxwell NT510, equipped with Chrysler software. These tools offer bidirectional testing capabilities, which are valuable for diagnosing and troubleshooting vehicle issues. Initially, neither of these tools had the capability to program key fobs for the Dodge Journey. However, recent updates to the Foxwell NT510, specifically version V8.30 of the Chrysler software, have significantly expanded its functionality. Exploring the updated functions on a 2006 Caravan revealed access to many more features, including SKIM/SKREEM key programming. This advancement in scan tool technology means that owners and independent mechanics now have more accessible options for programming Dodge Journey key fobs, potentially bypassing the need for dealership programming in some cases. We even ordered a spare key to test the new programming function, highlighting the evolving landscape of automotive key programming and the increasing capabilities of aftermarket scan tools.
In conclusion, obtaining a key fob for your Dodge Journey involves several options, from purchasing and programming aftermarket keys to utilizing dealership services and exploring recall-related replacements. DIY programming is feasible with two existing keys, while dealerships and updated scan tools offer programming services for new keys. Being aware of these options, potential costs, and recall opportunities will help you navigate the process of securing a replacement or spare key fob for your Dodge Journey effectively.
