DeckSmeck

I have two dead keys to my jeep. I have a code for it that the previous owner wrote in the manual. Is there a way to get a key made without towing my vehicle to the dealer? It is a 2001 Grand Jeep Cherokee.

dave1123

Key chips don't die unless the transponder code was wiped. Were they laid on top of a strong transmitter or microwaved? I'd say your SKIM module is at fault.

DeckSmeck

Maybe I am misunderstanding what the key is. It isn't a fob. It is just a key but with a thick base. When i put the key in and want to start it, a light on the dash shows a key with a circle around it and a diagonal line through it. It actually starts but then it shuts off immediately. I thought the keys get old and stop working. Mine is very old.

dave1123

The key has an imbedded RF chip in it the the Security Key Identification Module around the ignition switch interrogates when you put it into the ignition. The key sends back a code that the SKIM has to have in it's memory. If it doesn't get a proper code, you'll get that key-in-a-circle light and the jeep won't run after it burns the fuel in the rail because the fuel pump won't run.

What I'm saying is it's unusual for the keys to loose the RF chip code unless they've been wiped. It's more likely the SKIM is malfunctioning.

SteveMongr

here is info regarding the keys and skim that will help you understand the system and its requirements.
Second link is location of modules, including the SKIM that dave123 mentions.
http://www.wjjeeps.com/sentry.htm
http://www.wjjeeps.com/modules.htm