Last updated: February 2026
You're standing in a parking lot off Kanner Highway, patting every pocket for the third time, and the reality is setting in: your Dodge Charger or Ram 1500 key is gone. That sick feeling is real. Dodge and Ram key replacement in Stuart, FL costs between $85 and $325 depending on your key type, and Stuart Locksmiths can have a working replacement programmed on-site in most cases within 20 to 45 minutes.
Dodge and Ram use some of the more complex transponder and proximity key systems in the American truck and car market, which means a regular hardware store can't cut you a working replacement. You need someone with the right programming equipment and up-to-date software for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) platforms.
That's exactly what we do at Stuart Locksmiths. We've handled hundreds of Dodge and Ram key replacements across Martin County, from Ram 2500s used on job sites near Indiantown Road to Dodge Durango drivers stuck near the St. Lucie River bridge.
Why Dodge and Ram Keys Are Harder to Replace Than You Think
Most Dodge and Ram vehicles made after 2009 use a transponder chip embedded in the key head. The car's immobilizer system checks for that chip's signal every time you turn the ignition. No matching signal, no start. A blank key cut to the right shape does nothing.
Vehicles from 2013 onward, including the Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500, plus the Dodge Charger and Challenger, often use proximity fobs with push-button start. These need to be paired to the vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM), which requires professional OBD-II programming tools, not a YouTube tutorial.
Here's something most people don't realize: if you go down to zero working keys before getting a replacement made, the programming process gets significantly more complex. The reason is that some Dodge and Ram models require a working key present to "teach" a new one through the standard procedure. When there are no keys left, technicians have to use a more advanced bypass method. It adds time and sometimes cost. Get a spare made before you're in that situation.
We also handle Ignition Repair & Replacement for Dodge and Ram vehicles where the cylinder itself has worn or been damaged, which is a separate but related problem we see often on older Ram trucks.
Dodge & Ram Key Replacement Pricing in Stuart
Dealer pricing for Dodge and Ram keys in the Treasure Coast area typically runs $250 to $500 or more, plus you're waiting for a tow and an appointment slot. Our mobile service costs less and comes to you.
| Key Type | Common Vehicles | Stuart Locksmiths Price Range | Dealer Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Transponder Key | 2009-2012 Ram 1500, Dodge Avenger | $85 - $135 | $175 - $250 |
| Remote Head Key (Fob + Key) | 2013-2018 Ram 1500, Dodge Charger/Challenger | $150 - $225 | $250 - $375 |
| Proximity/Smart Key (Push-to-Start) | 2019+ Ram 1500, Dodge Durango, Chrysler models | $225 - $325 | $350 - $500+ |
| Zero Keys (All Keys Lost) | Any model, no working keys remain | Add $50 - $75 | Often requires tow + dealer visit |
Prices depend on year, model, and key type confirmed at the time of service. Call (772) 362-5731 with your VIN and we can give you a firm quote before anyone rolls out.
According to ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America), automotive key programming now accounts for over 40% of locksmith service calls nationally, with average mobile service costing 30-50% less than dealership replacement. (Source: ALOA Industry Report)
Our Dodge & Ram Key Replacement Process
We keep this straightforward. No mystery, no unnecessary upsells.
- Call with your details. Give us your year, model, and VIN. We'll confirm the key type and quote you a price right there. No surprises on the bill.
- We dispatch to your location. Our mobile locksmith unit covers all of Stuart and surrounding Martin County areas. Most arrival times run 20 to 35 minutes from your call.
- Proof of ownership check. We need to see your ID and vehicle registration before any work starts. This is non-negotiable, it protects you as much as it protects the next vehicle owner.
- Key cutting and programming. We cut the new key on our mobile key cutter and then connect our FCA-compatible programming tool to your OBD-II port. For most Ram and Dodge models, programming takes 8 to 15 minutes.
- Test everything before we leave. We verify the key starts the vehicle, locks and unlocks doors, and that any remote functions work. We don't pack up until you're satisfied.
Why Stuart Locksmiths for Your Dodge or Ram
Stuart, FL sees a lot of trucks. Ram pickups are everywhere in Martin County, from construction crews running between Palm City job sites to fishing charters launching off the St. Lucie Inlet. We've built our automotive inventory around the vehicles people actually drive here.
We carry key blanks and fob shells for Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Classic, and TRX trims, plus Dodge Charger, Challenger, Durango, and Journey models going back to 2007. That means no waiting on a parts order. The key that fits your truck is on the van today.
Our technicians are licensed through the state of Florida and carry automotive programming tools updated for the current FCA software releases. We're not guessing at compatibility. We're also available for Car Lockout Service if you're locked out rather than dealing with a lost key, and we handle Transponder Key Programming for situations where you have a cut key that just won't communicate with the car.
Customers in Jensen Beach and Port St. Lucie also call us regularly. We cover the full Treasure Coast corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make a Dodge or Ram key without the original?
Yes. As long as you have your VIN and proof of ownership, we can cut and program a new key from scratch. This is called an "all keys lost" situation and it takes a bit longer, usually 45 to 60 minutes, but we handle it regularly.
How much does Dodge key replacement cost in Stuart, FL?
Basic transponder keys run $85 to $135. Remote head keys (the combo fob and key type) run $150 to $225. Smart proximity keys for push-button-start Dodge and Ram models run $225 to $325. Call (772) 362-5731 with your year and VIN for an exact quote.
Does my Ram 1500 use a smart key or a regular key?
It depends on the trim level and year. Ram 1500s from 2019 and up with the Laramie, Rebel, Limited, or Longhorn trims almost always use proximity smart keys with push-to-start. Base trims often use a remote head key. Check your door handle for a button or look for a push-start button on the dash. Either way, we have both types covered.
Can I program a Dodge key myself using an online service?
For Dodge and Ram vehicles made after 2013, the answer is generally no. FCA's immobilizer systems on these platforms require bi-directional communication with the BCM through a licensed programming tool. DIY kits and phone apps that claim to do this don't have access to that system. You'll end up with a cut key that physically fits but won't start the car.
How long does Dodge or Ram key programming take?
Programming itself takes 8 to 15 minutes for standard key additions. The full service call from arrival to departure usually runs 20 to 45 minutes. All-keys-lost scenarios take closer to 45 to 60 minutes.
Do you carry key fobs for the Dodge Charger and Challenger?
Yes. We stock OEM-compatible fob shells and transponder chips for both models across multiple model years. We also program them on-site, so you're not leaving with a key that needs a second trip to a dealer to activate.
My Ram key is worn and the ignition turns hard. Do I need a new key or ignition work?
Often both. Worn keys accelerate ignition cylinder wear, and a badly worn cylinder starts chewing up new keys. We can assess both at the same visit. Check out our Ignition Repair & Replacement page for more details on what that service covers.
Will my Ram truck's anti-theft system reset automatically after key replacement?
The new key gets programmed into the anti-theft system during our process, so it's recognized as a valid key from the moment programming is done. There's no additional reset required on your end.
Can you replace a Dodge key if the key broke off in the ignition?
That's a two-step job: broken key extraction first, then replacement. We carry the extraction tools for this on the van. If the broken key damaged the ignition cylinder, we can handle that at the same appointment too.
Is mobile Dodge key replacement available on weekends in Stuart?
Yes. Stuart Locksmiths takes calls 7 days a week. Stuart traffic and schedules don't follow a Monday-Friday pattern, and neither do we. Call (772) 362-5731 any day.
How many keys can you program to my Dodge or Ram at once?
Most FCA platforms allow 8 keys programmed to a single vehicle. We recommend getting at least 2 during the same visit since adding a second key at the same time costs far less than a second service call later. A spare is worth it, especially if you're out near Hobe Sound or on the water when the primary key fails.
Do you service other makes as well?
Absolutely. We cover the full range of domestic and import vehicles. See our Car Key Replacement page for the full list, or check specific pages for Jeep Key Replacement and Ford Key Replacement if you have multiple vehicles to sort out.
Ready to get your Dodge or Ram back on the road? Call Stuart Locksmiths at (772) 362-5731. Have your VIN ready and we'll quote you right over the phone before dispatching. No dealership wait, no tow bill, no surprise charges.