Question 1

How do I spot a fake or predatory locksmith before I get burned?

Accepted Answer

A few things to check before you hand anyone your keys. Search the business name and look for reviews that mention specific vehicles and real job details, not just stars with no text. If the phone quote is vague, like a low minimum fee with no explanation of what is included, that is a setup for add-ons billed in your driveway after the work is done.

For a 2013 Chrysler 200 remote head key job specifically, a legitimate locksmith should be able to tell you upfront that it involves cutting a blade and programming the transponder chip to the immobilizer. If someone cannot explain that clearly or gets evasive about what tools they use, that is your answer. A real number and a fixed quote before the job starts is the baseline.

Question 2

What exactly is a remote head key and why can't I just copy it at a hardware store?

Accepted Answer

A remote head key is a single unit where the fob and the key blade are built together. Your 2013 Chrysler 200 uses one with six buttons and a transponder chip embedded in the head. That chip communicates with the vehicle's immobilizer every time you turn the key. If the chip is not recognized, the engine will crank and immediately shut off, or it will not start at all.

A hardware store key cutter can duplicate the blade shape, but they cannot program the chip. You would end up with a key that physically turns in the ignition but does not start the car. Programming requires a professional tool connected to the OBD port to register the new key to your specific vehicle. The 2013 200 is old enough that this does not require factory-level gateway credentials, but it is still not a DIY job.

Question 3

What equipment do you use to program a key for this car?

Accepted Answer

For the 2013 Chrysler 200, I use a professional key programming tool connected to the OBD port to handle immobilizer registration. The 2013 model year predates the security gateway architecture that Chrysler introduced on later vehicles, so this job does not require the additional authorization layer that newer models need.

Having more than one platform matters on Chrysler work. Occasionally one tool hits a snag on a specific job and a second approach gets it done cleanly. I keep multiple platforms on the van for exactly that reason.

Question 4

My 2013 Chrysler 200 cranks but shuts off immediately. Is that the key?

Accepted Answer

That pattern, cranks fine but dies right away, points to the immobilizer not recognizing the transponder chip in your remote head key. It is one of the more common complaints on this generation of 200. It can happen when a key is worn, damaged, or has not been properly paired after a module replacement.

It can also happen if someone tried to program a key with the wrong process or the wrong equipment and left the system in a partial state. Either way, the fix is diagnosing what the immobilizer is seeing through the OBD port and either re-pairing the existing key or programming a replacement. This is not a crank/no-start you want to chase through fuel or spark before you rule out the key system, because those tests will come back clean.

Question 5

Can I program a second remote head key for my 2013 Chrysler 200 myself?

Accepted Answer

No onboard sequence exists for adding a remote head key on this vehicle. The transponder registration has to go through a scan tool at the OBD port. If you bought a key online, it still needs to be cut to your vehicle and programmed before it will work. The remote buttons on a pre-cut, pre-owned fob also need to be synced separately. Bring the unprogrammed key with you when you call, and we handle both steps on site.

2013 Chrysler 200
Key Replacement - Save vs Dealer in San Diego

Stranded? | We Come to You Now

2013 Chrysler 200
Key Options

Locked Out? Compare the Solutions

2013 Chrysler 200 Remote Head Key Replacement - Fast, Affordable & Professional

Save vs the Dealer on Your Chrysler 200 Key

Chrysler 200 Rapid Response, Done Right

Five Stars From Rescued Chrysler Drivers

Chrysler 200 Mobile Service FAQ

Chrysler 200 Key Service Areas

Stranded Without a Chrysler 200 Key?

2013 Chrysler 200Key Replacement - Save vs Dealer in San Diego

Stranded? | We Come to You Now

2013 Chrysler 200Key Options