Programming a New Key Fob for Your Chrysler Town & Country
For Chrysler Town & Country owners looking to program an additional key fob, it’s important to know the standard procedure. Typically, you will need two currently working key fobs to successfully program a third one (and up to a total of 8). The fact that your existing fobs start your vehicle suggests they are functioning correctly and should enable you to program extra fobs.
However, exercise caution when purchasing key fobs online. Some internet vendors may sell fobs that 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 & Country.
Alt text: New Chrysler Town and Country key fob with fresh white lettering, indicating it’s likely unused and ready for programming.
Observing the physical condition of your current key fobs can offer clues about their history. A newer fob often exhibits bright white lettering, as seen in the example on the left. Conversely, an older, original fob, like the one on the right, might show yellowing lettering and signs of wear and tear from regular use. Noticeable wear, such as faded lettering and a worn key ring hole, are indicators of an older, frequently used key fob.
Alt text: Used Chrysler Town and Country key fob with yellowed and worn lettering, showing signs of extensive use and age.
Do you know if your Chrysler Town & Country is equipped with remote start? Look for the remote start button – typically an arrow circle depicted twice (x2) on your key fob. A dealer can also verify if your vehicle has this feature.
Key Fob Programming: Hardware Stores vs. Locksmiths vs. Dealers
When it comes to programming or replacing your Chrysler Town & Country key fob, you have several options, each with varying costs and levels of expertise.
Hardware stores may offer key programming services, but their pricing can be surprisingly high. Furthermore, it’s unusual for a typical hardware store to possess the specialized tools required to properly program a key fob to a Chrysler vehicle. Hardware stores generally focus on copying the chip within a traditional key, a method that is not compatible with Chrysler key fobs. Chrysler key fobs require a specific programming process to be “tagged” to your vehicle and cannot be simply cloned or reprogrammed from another vehicle.
A more cost-effective alternative to hardware stores is a local locksmith. Locksmiths specializing in automotive keys often have the necessary equipment and expertise to program Chrysler key fobs. You can expect to be quoted around $75 by a locksmith for a new key fob and programming service, which is considerably less expensive than other options.
The most comprehensive, albeit typically most expensive, option is your Chrysler dealership. Dealer costs for a new key fob and programming can reach approximately $200 or potentially more. This price usually breaks down to around $125 for the key fob itself and approximately half an hour of labor for cutting a physical key (if applicable) and programming the fob. While pricier, a dealership offers the assurance of genuine parts and certified technicians, and they can definitively confirm features like remote start for your vehicle.
