A dead or failing key fob is more than an inconvenience — it changes how you interact with your truck. The right replacement restores one-touch lock, unlock, and remote start functionality without unexpected compatibility headaches.
I’m Amir — the founder and writer behind Four Wheel Ask. I’ve spent years analyzing automotive electronics, comparing OEM specifications against aftermarket alternatives, and aggregating real-world owner feedback to separate dependable components from problematic designs.
With so many FCC frequencies, button layouts, and ignition system variants across the Ram lineup, matching the correct fob to your specific truck matters. After carefully reviewing dozens of replacement options, this guide highlights the most consistently reliable fit for the best 2017 dodge ram 1500 key fob.
How To Choose The Best 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 Key Fob
Selecting a key fob for a 2017 Ram 1500 goes beyond picking a shape that looks right. The truck’s generation uses a locked-down CAN bus system that requires professional programming, and the ignition type — standard turn-key versus push-button start — dictates which internal board and FCC frequency your vehicle accepts. Understanding these constraints before you click buy prevents wasted return shipping and unnecessary locksmith fees.
FCC ID and Part Number Matching Is Non-Negotiable
Every compatible remote must match one of two FCC IDs: GQ4-53T for 3-button traditional ignition fobs or GQ4-54T for 4-button push-to-start smart keys. Cross-referencing the FCC ID printed on your original fob against the replacement listing is the only way to guarantee internal frequency alignment. Part numbers such as 56046953, 56046955, or 68288424AB further refine trim and feature compatibility, but the FCC ID is your primary gatekeeper.
Ignition System Determines Fob Type
The 2017 Ram 1500 came in two ignition configurations. Trucks with a traditional key cylinder require a FOBIK-style remote — three buttons, no proximity sensors, and a physical flip-out key blade. Models equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go use a proximity smart key with four buttons and rely on passive RF communication. Installing the wrong style produces a fob that powers on but never communicates with the body control module.
Professional Programming Is Mandatory
All 2013-and-later Ram trucks use encrypted rolling-code security that prevents DIY cloning. Every replacement fob in this guide must be programmed by a dealer or an automotive locksmith with a compatible scan tool. No amount of button-pressing sequences in the driver seat will work on this generation. Factor between an extra programming fee when budgeting for your replacement.
Build Quality and OEM vs. Aftermarket
Original Mopar parts carry a higher upfront cost but use thicker shell plastic, denser rubber membrane buttons, and corrosion-resistant gold-plated contacts. Aftermarket fobs have improved significantly, with many suppliers now pre-installing batteries and pre-testing boards. The trade-off usually appears in button tactile feel and long-term durability of the blade retention mechanism rather than immediate functionality.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NorthCoast Keyless FOBIK | FOBIK | OEM-grade fit for turn-key trucks | GQ4‑53T, 3‑button, P/N 56046953 | Amazon |
| Mopar OEM Smart Key | Smart Key | Factory authentic push-to-start | GQ4‑53T, 4‑button, P/N 56046955 | Amazon |
| USARemote 2‑Pack Smart Key | Smart Key | Two matching fobs for push-start | GQ4‑54T, 4‑button, 2‑pack | Amazon |
| ATPSTOGO DIY Kit | FOBIK | Self-programming with OBD II tool | GQ4‑53T, 3/4‑button, DIY programmer | Amazon |
| KeylessOption Smart Key | Smart Key | Budget push-to-start replacement | GQ4‑54T, 5‑button, slide-out insert | Amazon |
| SUPALAND FOBIK 2‑Pack | FOBIK | Entry-level two-fob value | GQ4‑53T, 3‑button, 2‑pack, blade included | Amazon |
| MechanMagic Proximity Key | Smart Key | Affordable proximity smart key | GQ4‑54T, 4‑button, push-start only | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. NorthCoast Keyless FOBIK Key Fob
NorthCoast Keyless supplies an OEM-sourced electronic assembly that mirrors the factory Dodge part without the dealer markup. The fob carries the GQ4-53T FCC designation and directly replaces part numbers 56046953 and 68508720, which covers the vast majority of 2013-2022 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks with traditional turn-key ignition. The shell and circuit board match OE specifications, meaning the button feel and blade retention mechanism behave identically to the original component your truck left the factory with.
This unit is pre-loaded with its battery and electronics, so there is no assembly required before programming. The key blade slides out and must be cut by a local locksmith or hardware shop to match your existing door and ignition cylinder. Because the fob uses the older FOBIK protocol, it does not support Keyless Enter-N-Go push-button start — confirming compatibility with your specific ignition type is essential before purchasing.
Owner feedback consistently notes that the fob’s rubber buttons retain their tactile snap longer than budget-grade alternatives, and the plastic housing does not develop the hairline cracks that occasionally appear on cheaper shells after a few months of pocket carry. For Ram owners who want genuine factory-level reliability without paying the dealership premium, this fob delivers exactly that balance.
What works
- Factory-sourced circuit board matches OE fit and function
- Pre-installed battery and electronics reduce setup steps
- Consistent button feedback and durable shell construction
What doesn’t
- Not compatible with push-to-start ignition systems
- Requires professional programming and blade cutting
2. Mopar OEM Smart Key Fob
When nothing less than factory-original hardware will do, the Mopar OEM fob carries the official Dodge stamp and the same electronic tolerances specified in the Ram design engineering documents. This 4-button smart key operates on FCC ID GQ4-53T and replaces part numbers 56046955 and 68508721, making it the direct dealer part that a Ram service bay would hand you. The fob includes the integrated emergency key blade — also uncut — and supports the proximity-based Keyless Enter-N-Go system on push-start trucks.
The build quality stands in a class above aftermarket alternatives for one main reason: the internal board is manufactured to OE surface-mount standards, with conformal coating that resists moisture ingress better than most budget clones. The rubber button membrane is also molded from a higher-durometer compound, which delivers a more positive click and resists the mushy feel that develops on remanufactured units after repeated use. This fob is a true drop-in replacement for the original part that came with the truck.
Several owners report that the Mopar fob’s range matches the original, with consistent lock and unlock response at distances where some aftermarket units begin to miss signals. The premium investment is best justified for buyers who plan to keep their Ram for several more years and want to avoid the cumulative cost of replacing a budget fob every twelve months.
What works
- Genuine Mopar parts with full factory quality control
- Superior moisture resistance and button durability
- Consistent long-range signal performance
What doesn’t
- Higher upfront cost than aftermarket alternatives
- Still requires dealer or locksmith programming
3. USARemote 2‑Pack Smart Key Fob
USARemote addresses a common pain point for households with multiple drivers by packaging two complete smart key fobs in a single kit. Both units are built for the GQ4-54T protocol and fit 2013-2018 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks equipped with push-button start. Each fob arrives with the electronics pre-installed, the battery loaded, and an uncut emergency insert key that a locksmith can shape to match your door cylinder.
The 4-button layout covers lock, unlock, panic, and remote start, and the aftermarket shell uses a textured ABS plastic that provides a secure grip without adding bulk. While the tactile feedback of the buttons does not feel as crisp as an OEM Mopar unit, the difference is marginal in daily use, and the fob’s overall form factor slots into the same dash cubby or cup holder slot as the original. Programming is required by a dealer or qualified locksmith.
What makes this kit stand out is the cost-per-fob math. Receiving two functional units for a combined price that often undercuts a single dealer fob gives you a backup immediately — a smart move considering how long a replacement can take to ship if your only fob fails unexpectedly. Owners who bought this kit as a spare set consistently report that both fobs program without issues and hold their signal strength over time.
What works
- Two complete fobs for the price of one dealer unit
- Pre-installed battery and electronics
- Emergency key insert included with each fob
What doesn’t
- Button feel lacks the precision of genuine Mopar units
- Professional programming required before use
4. ATPSTOGO DIY Key Fob Kit
The ATPSTOGO kit is the only product in this selection that eliminates the need for a dealer or locksmith visit. The bundle includes two FOBIK-style key fobs, an OBD II programming tool, and a detailed illustrated manual that walks you through the process step by step. Each fob targets FCC ID GQ4-53T and supports 2013-2017 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks with conventional turn-key ignition — it does not work with push-to-start comfort entry systems.
A clever design feature is the interchangeable keypad system. The kit ships with both 3-button and 4-button button pads, allowing you to choose the layout that matches your original remote. The fobs are pre-loaded with batteries and pre-tested at the factory, and the OBD II programmer connects to your truck’s diagnostic port to deliver the programming signal directly to the body control module. The entire procedure can be completed in the driver seat without any prior technical experience.
The self-programming capability saves the typical fee that a locksmith charges, which effectively offsets the kit’s price premium. Owners who have used the system note that the OBD tool instructions are clear, but the screen can be difficult to read in direct sunlight, so performing the setup in a garage or shaded area is recommended. For anyone who values independence from dealer service schedules, this kit offers genuine autonomy.
What works
- Complete DIY programming eliminates dealer or locksmith fees
- Interchangeable 3-button and 4-button keypads
- Includes two fobs plus programming tool and manual
What doesn’t
- Only compatible with turn-key ignition systems
- OBD tool screen is hard to read in direct sunlight
5. KeylessOption Smart Key Fob
KeylessOption offers a fully tested GQ4-54T replacement that targets 2013-2018 Ram trucks with push-to-start ignition. The fob features a 5-button layout — lock, unlock, panic, remote start, and tailgate release — and includes an uncut slide-out emergency key that a locksmith can cut to match your door cylinder. The electronics arrive pre-installed, and the unit is shipped in an unlocked state, ready for dealer or locksmith programming.
The shell construction uses a smooth-finish plastic that is slightly thinner than OEM, but the overall dimensional accuracy allows the fob to sit flush in the dash without rattling. The rubber button membrane is responsive, though some owners note that the remote start button requires a slightly firmer press than the lock button during the first few weeks of use. The fob’s range on a fresh battery is comparable to the original, with consistent communication up to roughly thirty feet from the vehicle.
KeylessOption provides tech support with every purchase, which is a practical safety net for first-time buyers navigating the programming process. The primary limitation is that this fob is designed exclusively for push-start trucks, so owners of traditional turn-key Ram 1500 models need to look at the FOBIK alternatives. For the price point, it delivers a fully functioning replacement that handles daily communication without hesitation.
What works
- Fully pre-tested with pre-installed battery and electronics
- Five-button layout includes tailgate release
- Tech support available to assist with programming
What doesn’t
- Plastic shell feels slightly thinner than OE
- Not compatible with turn-key ignition trucks
6. SUPALAND FOBIK 2‑Pack
SUPALAND’s two-pack of 3-button FOBIK remotes brings the entry-point price for a spare fob set lower than any single OEM unit. Each fob is built for FCC ID GQ4-53T, covering 2013-2021 Ram 1500 trucks plus the 1500 Classic through 2024, as well as the 2500 through 4500 HD chassis from 2013-2018. The remotes are designed exclusively for turn-key ignition vehicles and include an uncut key blade, a pre-installed battery, and factory-mounted electronics that are tested before shipping.
The shell is molded from a standard black ABS plastic with a matte texture that resists fingerprints. The buttons are marked with clear lock and unlock icons, and the panic button sits in the center position. The button feel is functional but not premium — the travel is a bit longer than OEM, and the tactile feedback is softer. That said, both fobs in the pack pair correctly during programming, and the range on a fresh battery is adequate for typical daily parking lot use.
Owner reports highlight the two-pack value as the main reason to choose this set. Having a second fob programmed and stored as a backup eliminates the stress of losing the only remote, especially on older trucks where a dead fob means no remote functionality at all. The trade-off in button refinement is noticeable from day one, but for budget-conscious owners who need two functional remotes, the savings are substantial.
What works
- Two complete fobs at a very accessible price point
- Pre-installed battery and electronics ready for programming
- Wide vehicle compatibility across Ram HD chassis
What doesn’t
- Button feel is softer and less precise than OEM
- Not compatible with push-to-start ignition systems
7. MechanMagic Proximity Smart Key
MechanMagic delivers a 4-button proximity smart key for 2013-2018 Ram trucks that use push-button start. The fob operates on FCC ID GQ4-54T and replaces part numbers 56046956AC and 68288424AB. This unit is the correct choice for Laramie, Outdoorsman, and SLT trims equipped with the Keyless Enter-N-Go system, and it explicitly does not support older turn-key ignition setups. The electronics are pre-installed, and each fob is factory-tested before shipment.
Build quality sits slightly above the entry-level tier, with a shell that snaps together cleanly and a battery compartment that holds the lithium cell securely. The 4-button arrangement mirrors the OEM layout, and the proximity sensor responds consistently when the fob is within range of the truck’s door handles. The emergency key insert is a slide-out blade that requires cutting by a locksmith, and programming must be performed by a dealer or qualified professional.
Owners note that the fob’s overall performance is reliable once programmed, with no unexpected phantom lock cycles or delayed unlock responses. The main compromise is in the shell’s long-term durability — the plastic does not feel as robust as a Mopar unit, and the rubber buttons may show wear sooner than the factory original. For a spare or secondary fob that gets occasional use, this represents a practical budget option for push-start Ram models.
What works
- Factory pre-tested electronics with reliable proximity response
- Correct GQ4-54T protocol for push-start Rams
- Includes uncut emergency key insert
What doesn’t
- Shell plastic lacks the density of genuine Mopar parts
- Rubber buttons show wear faster than OE alternatives
Hardware & Specs Guide
FCC ID GQ4-53T — FOBIK (Turn‑Key Ignition)
This designation applies to 3-button remotes used on 2013-2021 Ram trucks with traditional key cylinders. The FOBIK system uses a fixed frequency of 433 MHz and stores the rolling code on a dedicated crypto chip that cannot be cloned by simple duplication tools. Always verify that the part number matches one of the 56046953 suffix variants or the 68508720 supersession to ensure trim-level compatibility with features such as remote start.
FCC ID GQ4-54T — Smart Key (Push‑to‑Start)
The GQ4-54T fobs communicate using both LF (low frequency) for passive entry when you touch the door handle and UHF (ultra-high frequency) for remote button commands. These units include a transponder chip inside the fob body that the truck reads when you press the start button. Replacing this type of fob requires matching both the radio frequency and the transponder ID, which is why dealer-level programming tools are mandatory.
Button Configurations and Shell Durability
All Ram key fobs from this generation use a rubber membrane switch assembly under the buttons. OEM shells use a higher-density ABS compound that resists cracking around the key ring hole and the blade pivot point. Aftermarket shells may use a recycled-content plastic that becomes brittle after exposure to extreme cabin heat — a common failure point reported by owners who park in direct sun for extended periods.
Battery Specifications and Range
Every fob in this guide uses a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell. A fresh battery in a properly functioning fob should provide roughly thirty feet of signal range in open conditions. Cold weather below freezing can reduce battery voltage temporarily, shortening range by about twenty percent. Replacing the battery annually, regardless of performance, is the best practice to avoid being stranded by a weak signal during a remote start attempt.
FAQ
Can I program a 2017 Ram 1500 key fob myself at home?
How do I know if my Ram needs a FOBIK or a Smart Key fob?
Do aftermarket key fobs work as reliably as OEM Mopar units?
What is the typical cost for a locksmith to program a Ram key fob?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the 2017 dodge ram 1500 key fob winner is the NorthCoast Keyless FOBIK because it delivers OEM-grade electronics and construction at a mid-range investment, making it the clearest value for turn-key trucks. If you need a push-to-start smart key, grab the Mopar OEM Smart Key for absolute factory authenticity and the most durable hardware available. And for the owner who wants to avoid the dealer or locksmith entirely, nothing beats the ATPSTOGO DIY Kit with its included OBD II programmer and interchangeable button pads.
Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Md Amir is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.