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betsypupcdx's avatar
betsypupcdx
Explorer
Jun 08, 2016

Program new key for 2002 Jeep Wrangler

HI, We are going to use our 2002 Jeep Wrangler as our toad. We would like to have a couple xtra ignition keys made. I know we need to buy a transponder key blank and I have read how to program the new key to the vehicle. It doesn't sound too complicated. I found the key blank we need on EBay for around $20 which I'm sure is way less than a Jeep dealer would charge.
Has anyone programmed a new key?

Thanks
Linda
  • TennesseeBob's avatar
    TennesseeBob
    Explorer
    Jun 08, 2016
    I just had a key cut and programmed for my truck at the dealers for $30 so you will not save that much
  • klutchdust's avatar
    klutchdust
    Explorer II
    Jun 08, 2016
    I have for my 2008 and it works fine. It does not need to be programmed if you just want to unlock the ignition so it will steer, the engine will crank but not start. My wife's Tacoma was 130 for programming.
  • The_Texan's avatar
    The_Texan
    Explorer
    Jun 08, 2016
    The Jeep dealer wanted $75 to program a new key for us, but the local ACE Hardware had the programming system and only charged $30. If you are getting this key to use while towing, do NOT program it, as a theft deterrent.
  • Romer1's avatar
    Romer1
    Explorer
    Jun 08, 2016
    Just went to Lowe's and had a key made for my 02 wrangler sport. Didn't know they were programmed. Key from Lowe's works same as Jeep key.
  • 2manytoyz's avatar
    2manytoyz
    Explorer
    Jun 08, 2016
    klutchdust wrote:
    I have for my 2008 and it works fine. It does not need to be programmed if you just want to unlock the ignition so it will steer, the engine will crank but not start. My wife's Tacoma was 130 for programming.


    That's an important detail! If you are leaving a key in the ignition to unlock the steering, DON'T get a chipped key!

    When I towed a 2004 Jeep Wrangler, that's exactly what I did too. No worries of someone hopping in it and driving off while at a rest stop.
  • Hikerdogs's avatar
    Hikerdogs
    Explorer
    Jun 10, 2016
    Romer1 wrote:
    Just went to Lowe's and had a key made for my 02 wrangler sport. Didn't know they were programmed. Key from Lowe's works same as Jeep key.


    The chipped key was an option for the TJ series Jeeps. Our 2004 Wrangler doesn't have the option. If security is a concern you can lower the glove compartment and remove fuse #4. This fuse is for the ignition system. With the fuse removed the engine will crank all day long but never start.
  • dkreuzen's avatar
    dkreuzen
    Explorer
    Jun 10, 2016
    betsypupcdx wrote:
    HI, We are going to use our 2002 Jeep Wrangler as our toad. We would like to have a couple xtra ignition keys made. I know we need to buy a transponder key blank and I have read how to program the new key to the vehicle. It doesn't sound too complicated. I found the key blank we need on EBay for around $20 which I'm sure is way less than a Jeep dealer would charge.
    Has anyone programmed a new key?

    Thanks
    Linda


    First you need to be sure you need a chipped key. Normally a chipped key has a gray handle and a standard key would have a black one.
    If it is a chipped key you can program the new keys yourself IF you have two good programmed keys. The instructions are in the user manual. You can get key blanks almost anywhere including Amazon.
  • betsypupcdx's avatar
    betsypupcdx
    Explorer
    Jun 15, 2016
    I bought a transponder key off EBay for $10 and free shipping. Had it cut at Ace Hardware for $1. Was able to program it in less than 2 min by following the instructions in the Jeep manual. Have since ordered another.
    Thanks for your help!!!
    I can always count on RV.net for great advice.

    Linda H

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