Last updated: February 2026
Your Jeep is sitting in a parking lot off US-1 and the key is gone. Maybe it's at the bottom of the St. Lucie River after a boat launch mishap, maybe it just vanished. Either way, you're stuck. Stuart Locksmiths handles Jeep key replacement in Stuart, FL directly on-site, with most jobs done in 30 to 60 minutes, costing between $85 and $350 depending on your Jeep model and key type. No tow truck required. No dealership appointment.
Why Replacing a Jeep Key Is Different from Other Vehicles
Jeep has used some of the most complex key technology in the Stellantis lineup since 2007. The newer Wrangler, Gladiator, and Grand Cherokee models run on a 128-bit encrypted transponder system that requires both cutting and programming to work.
That's the part most people don't expect. A cut-only key starts the ignition for about 3 seconds, then the immobilizer kicks in and kills the engine. The programming step is what most dealers charge a premium for, and it's exactly what our mobile unit handles in your driveway or parking lot.
We've completed over 420 Jeep key replacements across Martin County since 2019. Models from a 2004 Wrangler TJ with a basic transponder chip to a 2024 Grand Cherokee with a proximity smart key. We've seen the full range.
Jeep Key Replacement Pricing in Stuart, FL
Here's what you can expect to pay for Jeep key replacement. These are real ranges based on actual jobs completed in Stuart and Martin County, not ballpark guesses.
| Key Type | Typical Jeep Models | Estimated Cost | Time on Site |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Transponder Key | Wrangler TJ/JK (2004-2012), Liberty | $85 - $135 | 25-35 min |
| Remote Head Key (Flip Key) | Grand Cherokee (2011-2018), Compass | $140 - $220 | 30-45 min |
| Proximity Smart Key (Push-Start) | Grand Cherokee (2019+), Wrangler JL, Gladiator | $220 - $350 | 45-60 min |
| Key Fob Replacement Only | All push-start models, no key cut needed | $85 - $150 | 20-30 min |
Dealer pricing for the same services typically runs 40-70% higher. A Jeep Grand Cherokee proximity key at a dealership in the Treasure Coast area can hit $450-$550 once you add programming labor and the service department fee. (Source: ALOA Service Pricing Survey, 2024)
Need a key fob programmed separately from a key cut? That's a separate service we offer too.
How Our Jeep Key Replacement Process Works
No guesswork. No waiting room. Here's exactly what happens from your call to driving away.
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Call Us and Confirm Your Jeep Info
Tell us your year, model, and trim. This matters. A 2018 Wrangler JK and a 2020 Wrangler JL use completely different key systems. We identify the right equipment and blanks before we leave the shop, which cuts your wait time by 15-20 minutes. -
We Come to You in Stuart
Our mobile unit covers all of Stuart, including the areas around Kanner Highway, Monterey Road, and the US-1 corridor. Average arrival time is 20-35 minutes. We'll give you an honest ETA when you call. -
VIN and Ownership Verification
We verify the vehicle is yours. This is non-negotiable. Title, registration, or insurance card works fine. Florida law requires it and so do we. -
Key Cutting and Programming
We cut the blade on-site using our computerized key cutter. Then we use our OBD-II diagnostic tool to program the transponder or smart key directly to your Jeep's ECU. This pairs the key's unique code to your specific vehicle. -
Test, Confirm, Done
We test start cycles, lock/unlock functions, and remote range before we collect payment. You drive away. That's it.
Jeep Models We Service in Stuart
We carry key blanks and programming data for every Jeep model sold in the US market from 2000 forward.
- Jeep Wrangler (TJ, JK, JL) 2000-2024
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ, WK, WK2, WL) 2000-2024
- Jeep Gladiator JT 2020-2024
- Jeep Compass 2007-2024
- Jeep Patriot 2007-2017
- Jeep Cherokee (KL) 2014-2024
- Jeep Liberty 2002-2012
- Jeep Renegade 2015-2024
Not sure which key system your Jeep uses? Give us your VIN over the phone and we'll tell you in under 2 minutes. For other makes, check out our pages for Dodge & Ram Key Replacement and Ford Key Replacement.
Why Stuart Locksmiths for Your Jeep Key
There are a few mobile locksmiths working the Treasure Coast. Here's what separates us.
- Licensed and insured in Florida. Our license is posted. Ask for it. Many "mobile locksmiths" advertising on Google in Martin County are unlicensed and carry no liability insurance.
- We stock Jeep-specific blanks on the truck. We don't order your key after you call. We stock OEM-compatible blanks for every major Jeep model. No waiting 2 days for parts.
- Flat-rate quotes over the phone. You'll know the exact price before we arrive. No surprise fees after the work is done.
- Local knowledge matters. We know Stuart. We know the Publix parking lots on Monterey, the marina areas near Flagler Avenue, and the Willoughby subdivisions. We're not navigating here from Palm Beach.
- Over 420 Jeep jobs completed. That's not a claim, that's a record. Our reviews back it up.
Need more than just a key? We also offer full Automotive Locksmith services including Ignition Repair & Replacement if your Jeep's cylinder is worn or damaged.
Jeep Key Loss Is More Common Than You Think
According to ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America), automotive key replacement accounts for roughly 31% of all locksmith service calls nationally. Jeep Wrangler owners in particular report higher-than-average key loss rates, likely tied to outdoor activity use. Beach days at Stuart Beach or hikes through Jonathan Dickinson State Park are not friendly to key survival.
| Service Provider | Average Jeep Smart Key Cost | Typical Wait Time | Comes to You? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stuart Locksmiths | $220 - $350 | 20-35 min | Yes |
| Jeep Dealership (Treasure Coast) | $450 - $550 | 1-3 days | No |
| National Auto Parts Store | $35-$80 (key only, no programming) | Immediate | No |
| Tow + Dealer Combo | $600 - $800+ | Same day, maybe | Tow only |
(Source: ALOA Automotive Locksmith Pricing Data, 2024)
We also serve Jeep owners throughout Martin County. If you're in Palm City or Jensen Beach, we're just minutes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you replace a Jeep Wrangler key if I have absolutely no working key?
Yes. When you have zero working keys, we use the VIN to pull the key code from the Jeep database, cut a new key from scratch, and program it directly to your ECU. It takes about 45-60 minutes and costs $10-$30 more than a standard duplicate due to the additional programming steps.
How much does it cost to replace a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob in Stuart?
The 2021 Grand Cherokee uses a proximity smart key. Budget $250-$320 for a full replacement including programming. If you just need a second key programmed and already have one working key, it's closer to $180-$220.
Will you come to me if my Jeep is stuck at a trailhead or beach access in Martin County?
Yes. We cover all of Stuart and Martin County, including areas near Hobe Sound and the Indiantown corridor. If you can tell us your location, we'll come to you. Just be aware that some remote access areas add 10-15 minutes to our arrival time.
Does replacing a Jeep key void my factory warranty?
No. Using a licensed locksmith for key replacement does not void your Jeep factory or powertrain warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects you on this. The dealer cannot void your warranty simply because someone other than them cut or programmed a key.
Can you make a spare key for my Jeep Gladiator while I still have the original?
Absolutely. Making a spare while you have a working key is cheaper and faster. We can program a second key to your Gladiator in about 25-35 minutes for $180-$260 depending on trim level and key type.
What if my Jeep key fob works but the key blade is broken?
That's a blade replacement and reattachment job, not a full replacement. If the chip in the fob is undamaged, we can often transfer it to a new shell or cut a new blade for $65-$110. No reprogramming needed in most cases.
My Jeep Cherokee won't recognize the new key I bought online. Can you fix that?
Yes. Aftermarket keys bought online are rarely pre-programmed. We can program most OEM-compatible aftermarket key blanks to your Cherokee's system. Bring the key and your vehicle to us, or we'll come to you. Standalone programming runs $75-$110.
How long does Jeep key replacement take at Stuart Locksmiths?
Basic transponder keys take 25-35 minutes on-site. Proximity smart keys for newer Grand Cherokees and Wranglers take 45-60 minutes. We'll tell you the estimated time before we arrive based on your specific model.