How to Program a Key for a 2006 Jeep Commander
by Leonardo R. Grabkowski
The 2006 Jeep Commander comes with sentry keys--also called chip keys--that must be programmed to the ignition module. This setup is part of the vehicle's anti-theft system; it makes it harder for a thief to make a duplicate key for your Commander. The Commander's keys can be programmed at home. However, the procedure is only useful if programming an extra key. If you do not have two currently programmed keys, you'll need to visit a Jeep dealer for key programming with a dealer-only scan tool.
Step 1
Place your first working key in the ignition. Turn it to "On," but don't crank the engine. Keep the key at the "On" setting for eight seconds, and then turn it back to "Off" and remove it.
Step 2
Insert the second key into the ignition. Turn it to "On" and wait about 10 seconds. You will hear a chime, and a dash light labeled "SKIM" will illuminate.
Step 3
Turn the key back to "Off" and remove it from the ignition.
Step 4
Insert the key you want to program. Turn it to "On" and wait for the "SKIM" light to turn off. This takes approximately 20 seconds. Once the light turns off, the key is programmed.
Tips
- This procedure will also program the keyless entry, which is integrated with the key.
Things You'll Need
- Replacement key
Writer Bio
Leonardo R. Grabkowski has been writing professionally for more than four years. Grabkowski attended college in Oregon. He builds websites on the side and has a slight obsession with Drupal, Joomla and Wordpress.
