Losing, breaking, or simply needing a spare key fob for your Dodge Journey is a common concern for vehicle owners. Understanding your options for Dodge Journey Key Fobs, whether it’s programming a new one, replacing a lost fob, or dealing with recalls, can save you both time and money. Let’s delve into the essentials of Dodge Journey key fobs.
One of the first experiences many Dodge Journey owners face is the cost of key fob programming at dealerships. As shared in a personal account, dealerships can charge a significant fee, sometimes around $50 or more, just to program a single key, regardless of whether it’s successful. This expense can quickly add up, especially if you need multiple keys.
However, there’s good news for Dodge Journey owners who already have two working key fobs. You can program spare keys yourself, avoiding the dealership fees. The procedure is readily available online with a quick search. Having two functioning keys initially is the key to unlocking DIY programming for your Dodge Journey.
Another important aspect to be aware of is the Dodge key fob recall. According to recall paperwork, dealerships were supposed to replace all keys programmed to the vehicle during the recall service, even if they weren’t OEM keys. However, getting dealerships to honor this for aftermarket keys can sometimes require persistence. Owners have reported needing to contact FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) directly to ensure their spare keys obtained from third-party sources were also replaced under the recall.
It’s also worth noting that there’s a limit to the number of key fobs that can be programmed to your Dodge Journey’s Wireless Ignition Module (WIM). This limit is typically around 7 or 8 keys. Once you reach this limit, you won’t be able to program any additional key fobs.
For those looking for more advanced solutions, especially DIY enthusiasts or those in the automotive repair field, scan tools offer another avenue for key fob programming. While older or basic scan tools might lack this capability, newer models and software updates are expanding these functions. For instance, updates to tools like the Foxwell NT510 with Chrysler software have introduced SKIM/SKREEM key programming capabilities, potentially for Dodge Journey models as well. This opens up possibilities for independent key programming and diagnostics.
In conclusion, managing your Dodge Journey key fobs involves understanding dealership services, DIY programming options, recall implications, key limits, and the potential of using scan tools. By being informed about these aspects, you can navigate key fob issues effectively and ensure you always have reliable access to your Dodge Journey.
