Suzuki DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM Key Replacement

Quick answerThe DR-Z400 uses plain mechanical keys with no immobilizer, so a new key starts the bike as soon as it is cut. The detail that surprises owners is that the DR-Z400SM manual describes two pairs of keys: one pair for the ignition switch and a different pair for the steering lock. Losing the ignition key and losing the steering lock key are two separate jobs.

Suzuki DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM key quick facts

The DR-Z400SM owner's manual says the bike comes with two pairs of keys, one for the ignition switch and the other for the steering lock.
The manual has separate boxes for an ignition key number and a steering lock key number, both taken from the plate supplied with the keys.
The ignition switch has OFF, ON and P positions. P lights the taillight for roadside parking and lets you remove the key.
The steering lock is a separate lock, used with the handlebars turned all the way to the left.
There is no immobilizer and no chip in the key.

Suzuki DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM key types by year

Years	Models	Key type	Chip	Notes
2005-2024	DR-Z400SM	mechanical cut key, plus a separate steering lock key	no	The DR-Z400SM owner's manual describes two pairs of keys with two key numbers.
2000-2024	DR-Z400S	mechanical cut key	no	Plain key with no immobilizer. The two-key wording comes from the DR-Z400SM manual, so check the key section of your own manual for a separate steering lock key.

Two different keys, two key numbers

Most street bikes lock the steering through the ignition switch. The DR-Z400SM does it the dirt bike way, with a separate steering lock. Suzuki's manual says the motorcycle comes with two pairs of keys, one for the ignition switch and the other for the steering lock, and gives you two boxes to record the numbers: one marked ignition and one marked steering.

A steering lock key that is rarely used is easy to misplace. If the lock is engaged when that happens, the bike will start but will not steer. Tell us which key you are missing, because the ignition key will not work the steering lock.

Need a key for your DR-Z400S?

Call or text with the year and where the bike is parked.

Call (619) 775-1858 Text your year, make and model

Or read first: all services · common questions · about us · contact details

The ignition switch

The switch has three positions. OFF cuts every circuit and releases the key. ON completes the ignition circuit and holds the key. P is for temporary roadside parking at night: the taillight stays on and the key comes out. There is no LOCK position on the switch because the steering lock is separate.

With no immobilizer, a correctly cut key is all the bike needs. That keeps a lost key visit on a DR-Z400 at the simpler end of the work we do.

What a lost key visit involves

We check your photo ID against the registration or title, then cut an ignition key to the lock or to the key number if you still have the plate. If the steering lock key is also missing, we make that key separately. The manual also lists a helmet holder on the bike, so tell us if that needs a key too and we will check it on the same visit.

Photo ID and registration or title
The key number plate, or the numbers written in the manual, if you have them
Whether the steering lock is currently engaged
Any worn or broken key, including the piece left in your hand

Where to find the key code

On the plate supplied with the keys. The DR-Z400SM manual has two boxes to copy the numbers into, one for the ignition key and one for the steering lock key.

What to have ready

Have this ready when you call or text

Year, make and model of the bike
Where the bike is parked
Whether you have any working key, a broken key or a key code
Photo ID and registration or title (we verify ownership before making a key)

Suzuki DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM key FAQ

Does the DR-Z400 have a chip key or immobilizer?

No. It uses plain mechanical keys, so a new key needs cutting only and no programming.

Why does my DR-Z400SM ignition key not fit the steering lock?

Because it is a different key. Suzuki's manual says the bike comes with one pair of keys for the ignition switch and another pair for the steering lock.

My steering is locked and I lost the small key. Can you help?

Yes. With proof of ownership we can make a key for the steering lock at the bike. Do not force the bars, since that damages the lock and the frame stop.

What is the P position on the DR-Z400 ignition?

Parking. It turns the taillight on for roadside parking at night and lets you take the key out. Left on for long, it will drain the battery.

More Suzuki models

Services for this bike

Lost Your Only Motorcycle Key? What to Do NextIf you lost the only key to your motorcycle, a new one can almost always be made, but the route depends on whether your bike uses a plain metal key, a chipped transponder key, or a keyless fob.
Motorcycle Gas Cap, Seat or Steering Lock Stuck? What to DoStuck gas cap, seat and steering locks on motorcycles usually come down to grime or corrosion in an exposed cylinder, a worn key, a stretched seat cable, or parts under tension that hold the latch closed.
How to Find Your Motorcycle Key CodeA motorcycle key code is a short number or letter-number code that tells a locksmith or dealer how to cut a key for your locks.
Lost Motorcycle Master Key, Code Card or Key Tag: What ChangesA master key, code card or master PIN is the item the maker uses to authorize new keys for your bike.

Where we come to you

Sources

Page last updated November 14, 2026.