If your Jeep Cherokee key fob is not being recognized or detected, it is not the first time that it is happening. This situation could be very annoying particularly when it is an emergency.
Gaining knowledge as to what is causing the issue and how to fix it will help as one will be able to operate the vehicle once more.
Below, we will identify some of the reasons why this particular situation occurs and provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix it.
Understanding the Issue
There are contributory factors that can trigger the ‘Key Fob Not Detected’ warning message including a discharged key fob’s battery, the car receiver not working properly, or the key fob itself having some problems.
Occasionally, it might be as easy as a simple programming mistake or an outside electronic device interfering with the signal.
Understanding the methods for these sorts of repairs can prevent many hours of needless worry.
Common Causes of Key Fob Detection Issues
- Dead Battery: The most common cause is that the key fob housing contains a weak battery or the battery is dead. In instances where the battery cannot perform any work, the key fob will not be able to work.
- Key Fob Damage: A key fob that has been physically damaged might be malfunctioning and unable to function properly. Look for any potential cracks and water damage as well.
- Vehicle Receiver Malfunction: One of the problems might be that the receiver situated in the vehicle that is used to communicate with the key fob might be damaged.
- Programming Issues: The key fob may fail to be recognized by the vehicle if it is not programmed successfully.
- Interference: Electronic devices that are faulty ignition switches or other electronic devices can interfere with the key fob signals.
Troubleshooting Steps
An exploration of the potential sources and solutions of the “Key Fob Not Detected” problem can be summarized as follows:
1. Check the Key Fob Battery
The first thing that should be checked is the key fob battery. If it is out of power, a new battery should be installed.
To change the battery, most rather than all Jeep models use a CR2032 battery, and this can be purchased at any auto parts or electrical supply store.
- A small flathead screwdriver can be used to open the case of the key fob.
- The old battery must be taken out and a replacement fitted, making sure that the positive side of the battery looks in the right direction.
- Finally, the key fob is to be put back together and tested to ensure whether it is working or not.
2. Inspect the Key Fob for Damage
The next step would be to visually depict how the key fob looks and whether its appearance is worth it.
It needs to be binned if, cracking is dealt with, or if there are any signs of the wetness it’s needed to.
On the other hand, if there do not seem to be any issues with the fob, move on to the next step.
3. Check the Vehicle’s Receiver
The vehicle’s receiver may also be faulty if the fob is in good shape. The ignition switch usually holds this part in place.
If a malfunction is suspected, a professional mechanic may need to be called upon to spotlight the details.
4. Reprogram the Key Fob
If it is necessary to program the key that is not working, it will be possible to do so if another one is available.
The sum of factors would include the actual programming technique itself:
- Enter the car and lock all the doors.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it “ON” but don’t crank the engine.
- With the working fob press and hold the unlocked button for about 5 seconds.
- As you continue holding the “UNLOCK” button. You need to wait for a chime sound that indicates the programmed success.
5. Use Diagnostic Tools
Should, however, the above steps yield no results, it is appropriate to set your sights further, to the diagnostic phase of the procedure.
Such a tool would be the AEL Hotel Maxi IM608, which can help locate problems with the key or the receiver fitted inside the vehicle.
This is how it works:
- Plug the OBD-II diagnostic connector into an OBD-II port in the vehicle.
- Proceed to a Jeep automatic selection page and then select your model.
- Continue through some of the other procedures aimed at checking the status and programming options of the key fob.
6. Test for Interference
Electronic interference sometimes prevents the recognition of the key fob. To test for this, do the following:
- Remove oneself from the surrounding electronic devices as well as phones and laptops.
- In the eventuality that the vehicle is ignited, attempt to start it with the key fob located in the area of the ignition switch.
- If, however, the vehicle did start, the reason for the problem may have been interference.
7. Consult a Professional
This is because, despite every step above, the key fob can still not be detected.
It is best to consult a professional who can run extensive diagnostic and inspection procedures.
Additional Tips:
- For occasions when you may require a key fob when in dire situations, make it a habit of having a spare at all times.
- Consequently, keep changing the battery of the key fob as per the schedule to avoid such occurrences in the future.
- If you are prone to encountering difficulties recurrently, it may be beneficial to seek inspection of the electrical components of your car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be quite frustrating to lose a key fob in the middle of your business. However, with the proper information and a few pre-troubleshooting steps done first, the problem can be fixed easily.
You should ensure that the battery is not dead, that there are no physical issues, and that perhaps the fob will need to be reprogrammed.
It is worth noting that in an extreme circumstance, help from a professional is also an option. Thus, these steps ensure the readiness of the Jeep Cherokee at all times.
FAQs
How do you start a Jeep with a dead key fob?
A Jeep can be started even when the key fob is dead. To begin with, the key must be taken out of the fob. This can be done by sliding the release button.
Use this key to break into the driver’s door. Then put the key fob into the ignition, preferably without taking it out, into the first position.
Even though the battery is not working and should be completely dead, the fob’s function may still operate while in position “1”.
The key should be turned to “ON”. In that state, the car is supposed to commence.
But if it does not, they may also try putting the fob against the start button while switching the ignition.
Why is my key fob not being detected?
There can be several reasons why your key fob does not get detected. First, the battery should be checked.
A battery that is weak or dead can cause no communication with your vehicle. If necessary, replace it. Secondly, make sure the fob is not too far away.
If you are too far away, it will not connect. In addition, check the fob for any scratches or damage. Cracks or water damage can alter its use.
Other times, the receiver of the vehicle may be problematic. Restarting a vehicle of course This may help you reset the system.
Lastly, if the manual is available, reprogram the fob. If this doesn’t get resolved, seek professional help or visit your dealership.
How to program a new Jeep key fob?
To program a new key fob, start with sitting in the driver’s seat while all the doors are shut. Insert the key into the ignition and switch it to the “On” position without starting the engine.
Turn it back to “Off” and repeat the same procedure three more times. On the fourth turn, leave it in the “On” position.
Now, press and keep the “Unlock” key depressed. While is it held, press once on the panic button, and let go of both keys.
You are supposed to hear a chime sound, and that means you have successfully finished the programming process.
Lock the doors and unlock them with the fob to test it. If this is successful, that means your new key fob can now be used.
Why can’t my car find my key fob?
There are several reasons that your car might not be locating the key fob. First, the battery in the key fob might be depleted or at a low level.
Try replacing it to ascertain whether the problem is fixed. Second, interference from other electronic gadgets that are placed in the area may also cause this problem.
See if you can get away from some of the interfering objects. Third, there is a possibility that the key fob is out of range, therefore always ensure that you are standing within the correct distance from the car.
Finally, the fault may be with the car’s receiver or it may be due for a reset.
If that does not work, you may want to go to a car dealership or a locksmith for help around.
Do you have to reprogram the Jeep key fob after changing the battery?
Most of the time when changing the battery on the jeep key fob, there is no need to reprogram the fob.
Programming is retained by the majority of key fobs even if the battery is changed.
However, if the fob is not functioning after the battery change, there is a possibility that reprogramming the fob is necessary.
This is especially so when the battery has been taken out for a while or the fob was reset by mistake.
To reprogram, the Jeep model’s specifics must be followed, which frequently requires variations of turning the ignition key.
You should consult your owner’s manual for useful information. If the problem still exists, it is better to go to a dealership or locate a locksmith.
How do I get my car to recognize a key?
Start with checking the key fob’s battery to facilitate key recognition for your car. Make sure to check what the car battery needs first as it must be within reach for recognition.
For instance, certain systems require passengers to sit in the car. If the key is old fashion, ensure that the key has been properly placed into the ignition switch.
However, with the smart key, one starts by pressing the start switch while one foot is on the brake pedal.
If the key is not recognized, it should be programmed again as instructed in the vehicle manual. This is commonly integrating a series of such motions with the ignition and the doors.