Community Forums

lakedweller · 08-29-2012, 09:57 PM

I am setting up a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee to tow. The Jeep needs a key in the ignition to unlock the steering wheel. I would like to use a non chipped key so no one can start the Jeep. I just don't know if a non chipped key will affect the computer of the Jeep. Does anyone know the answer????

BpK9Miami · 08-29-2012, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lakedweller

I am setting up a 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee to tow. The Jeep needs a key in the ignition to unlock the steering wheel. I would like to use a non chipped key so no one can start the Jeep. I just don't know if a non chipped key will affect the computer of the Jeep. Does anyone know the answer????

I towed a Wrangler X for about a year and used the spare key ("valet" key) without any problem. I also used a battery disconnect after getting it all set up for towing, and locked the doors with the regular key, so no one could get in if I stopped somewhere. I think you should be fine. Mine was a 2009 model year, but I can't imagine theres that much difference.

Good luck.

burfurd · 08-29-2012, 10:18 PM

I use a non-chipped key in my Ranger when towing. It does nothing except release the steering so it can turn. Have towed several trips 600 - 800 miles with no problems.

burfurd

autofish · 08-29-2012, 10:51 PM

I tow a 2004 JGC using a nonchip key no problems in 60k miles.

Dutch Star Don · 08-30-2012, 02:22 AM

I towed an 07 Dodge Dakota with the same issue. I had a non chipped key made and used it when we towed.....no issues.

CHCam42 · 08-30-2012, 05:27 AM

We tow a 2005 GC and there is no steering lock. The chipped key is to prevent the motor from starting. Take the key out and turn the steering wheel a few inches to see if it hit a lock. Towed our about 30000 no problem. Great tow vehicle.

bmerpaw · 08-30-2012, 10:21 AM

You can also remove the wheel locking feature & never have to use a key again. I had it done to my 2005 Jeep Liberty. Best $20.00 I ever spent.

Rich and Cork · 08-30-2012, 05:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmerpaw

You can also remove the wheel locking feature & never have to use a key again. I had it done to my 2005 Jeep Liberty. Best $20.00 I ever spent.

I was going to mention this. I have two Jeeps set up for towing and have not done this, but a friend of mine did that to his Grand.

lakedweller · 08-30-2012, 06:46 PM

Thanks for all the reply's. I will have to check and see if my GC has a lock. I called a jeep dealer today and he said if I use the non chipped key 3 times the jeep would not start even with the chipped key and would have to be reprogrammed. He sounded like he really did not know. I like disabling the wheel lock sounds like the way to go if mine does have a lock. Where would I have that done? If I disconnect the battery my Brake Buddy would not work unless I supply the 12v from my MH.

I will check things out tomorrow.

Thanks to all...

orpco · 08-31-2012, 07:17 AM

I have also been told that a nonchipped key will disable the ignition and not allow the jeep to start when using a chipped key. I too would like to disable the steering wheel lock. One less thing to remember when hooking up.

srx-6 · 08-31-2012, 07:23 AM

I have been towing a 2008 Wrangler with a non-chipped key for over three years now. Never had a problem starting it with a chipped key.

CHCam42 · 08-31-2012, 10:54 AM

We also use brake buddy and plug it into the right side cigar lighter. It is hot all the time. Never has a battery issue.

lakedweller · 08-31-2012, 09:43 PM

I did check my GC and it does not appear to have steering locks. Can't move the wheels but the steering wheel does turn from side to side... It is apparent that the previous owner of my GC towed it and maybe he had the stops removed, or maybe in anticipation of it being used as a toad Jeep just didn't put in stops. Will be testing before the end of September before our month long trip to Myrtle Beach... Again thanks to all for their responses to this post....