Losing or damaging your key fob can be a major inconvenience, especially when it comes to your Chrysler Town and Country. Understanding your replacement options and the process involved is crucial to getting back on the road quickly and affordably. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Chrysler Town And Country Key Fob Replacement, from programming to cost considerations.
It’s common to wonder about programming new key fobs, especially if you have existing ones. As a general rule, if you possess two working key fobs for your Chrysler Town and Country, you can typically program a third one yourself. This is a convenient feature that can save you time and money. The fact that both of your current fobs start your vehicle is a positive sign, suggesting they are functioning correctly and likely capable of programming additional fobs. Keep in mind that Chrysler systems often allow for the programming of up to 8 key fobs.
However, proceed with caution when purchasing key fobs online. The internet offers a wide array of options, but some key fobs sold online may have been previously programmed to another vehicle. These pre-programmed fobs cannot be reprogrammed to a different vehicle, rendering them useless for your Chrysler Town and Country. Carefully inspect the fobs you are considering. For instance, a brand-new fob often has bright white lettering, indicating its unused status. In contrast, an older, original fob might exhibit yellowing lettering and signs of wear and tear from regular use. The wear on a fob can sometimes be a clue to its history. Consider if your vehicle is equipped with remote start. The presence of an arrow circle symbol x2 on your key fob indicates remote start functionality.
You might encounter key programming services at hardware stores. While convenient, be aware that the pricing can sometimes be higher than expected. Furthermore, it’s not typical for hardware stores to possess the sophisticated tools required to program key fobs directly to your Chrysler Town and Country’s system. Hardware stores generally focus on duplicating keys by reading the chip in your existing key and transferring that information to a new key blank. This method is insufficient for Chrysler key fobs, as these fobs require a specific programming process to be tagged to your vehicle. A Chrysler key fob programmed to one vehicle cannot be simply reprogrammed for another.
For a more cost-effective and specialized solution, consider contacting a local locksmith. Locksmiths specializing in automotive keys often provide competitive pricing for key fob replacement and programming. Quotes from locksmiths can be significantly lower than other options. For example, you might find a local locksmith offering a new key fob and programming service for around $75.
Dealerships are another viable option for Chrysler Town and Country key fob replacement. While dealerships generally offer reliable service, be prepared for a higher price point. Dealer costs for a new key fob and programming can reach approximately $200 or even more. This typically breaks down to the cost of the key fob itself, which can be around $125, plus labor charges for cutting the physical key (if applicable) and the programming service, often estimated at half an hour of labor. One advantage of visiting a dealership is their ability to definitively confirm whether your Chrysler Town and Country is equipped with remote start, if you are unsure.
In conclusion, replacing your Chrysler Town and Country key fob involves understanding programming procedures, exploring different service providers like locksmiths and dealerships, and being cautious about aftermarket purchases. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and efficiently regain full access to your vehicle.
