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Jeep KEY ISSUE.

Just purchased a 2000 Cherokee Classic FWD with all the bells 'n whistles from a one-owner (through a commercial wholesaler) in pristine condition with 85k miles & a bunch of expensive after-market "off-road" extras. This is my "first" Jeep. I've research it for "watch out for this 'n that". The seller had only ONE key with a lock/unlock remote (not a remote start device). I best not lose it!! Lots of negative reports of "key won't turn" & expensive repair/replacements. I had no clue the key/remote was a critical, whiz-bang electronic device until I read the owner's manual and numerous discussions in various blogs.

1) What maintenance measures can I take to prevent these "key" issues?
2) Where can I procure an "extra" key/remote set without spending a fortune? Owner manual refers to a PIN number required to obtain additional key. Previous owner is medically incapacitated -- PIN number not available.
3) Are there other "Jeep issues" I should be aware of that isn't generally known by the average owner or not covered in the owner manual?

I'm a retired 72 year guy in the Mojave Desert 40 miles north of Palm Springs. Not into "off-roading" but our rural roadways in the desert are dirt/sand and the desert can, but rarely, suffer flash flooding which tears up the dirt roads and can leave tons of dirt/sand/debris atop roadways. Any advice on preventative maintenance and operation of this 2000 model Jeep would be much appreciated.

Bill Ford
Joshua Tree CA
billford@isp.com