For most drivers, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a prime target thanks to its combination of comfort, leveled-up technology, and off-the-road capabilities.
Like any other automobile, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has some issues. Intermittent starting failure and engine turnover are two major problems reported by many owners.
This blog post will focus on a specific instance of a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 3.6L engine that fails to turn or occasionally starts.
We will focus on the steps of diagnosis in this case, its common causes, and how it could be remedied.
Understanding the Problem
Focused on this instance, a customer has brought in a Jeep Grand Cherokee and has claimed that the vehicle does not start most times.
In the beginning, the button that is needed for ignition did not seem to align itself, resulting in no crank for the vehicle.
A vehicle crank-up occurred at one point, but the vehicle cut off on itself almost instantly.
These types of issues may easily suggest that the problem is with the electrical structure of the vehicle or possible communication issues within the vehicle’s communication systems.
1- Initial Observations
While diagnosing the vehicle, those observations that were evident pointed towards an if not any few electrical issues present within the vehicle.
For instance, pressing the pedal responsible for the hazard lamps turning on succeeded in waking parts of the network.
Which in this case, is good news because it means there are responsive systems within the cog.
Unfortunately, the network relating to the liftgate system indicated an error message that made things worse to see more communication faults.
2- Diagnostic Steps Taken
As the first step in diagnosing the problem, the computer systems of the vehicle were checked for any stored codes.
Several modules, including the powertrain control module (PCM) and transmission control module (TCM), were reported to not be able to communicate with each other.
When communication problems like these occur, the vehicle’s electrical network stability must be monitored.
3- Key Components to Check
As a follow-up to the earlier reports, those particular elements stood out because they would interfere with the starting system.
The RF (Radio Frequency) Hub was singled out as a very important part of the system because it connects the key fob to the computerized systems in the vehicle.
When the RF Hub is faulty, the car will likely be unable to interpret the key and start its engine.
4- Checking the RF Hub
An RF Hub examination, it was decided, would encompass the use of a wiring diagram.
This diagram shows how the RF Hub is powered on by the power distribution module that is fitted under the hood.
It is also important to make sure that the RF Hub has its appropriate fuse, which in this case was fuse 51.
5- Testing the Fuse
Testing the Fuse Using a test tool, the fuse was evaluated for its voltage load and loaded conditions.
The tool offered an almost instantaneous reading of the voltage registered across the fuse and the terminal load could also be tested.
The results showed that the fuse was functioning normally, meaning power was extended to the RF Hub.
6- Accessing the RF Hub
Accessing the RF Hub Taking into account that the fuse was okay, the next step consisted of gaining access to the RF Hub.
This meant that the quarter panel from the rear side of the car had to be taken off. Fortunately, the panel was not too difficult to take apart and the RF Hub could be accessed.
7- Inspecting the RF Hub Connections
During server inspection, it was found that one of the nuts, the one which connects the RF Hub’s ground connection, was loose.
It is rational to explain that this loose ground connection caused defaulted signal communication from time to time, which would, in turn, lead to the starting problems that had been reported by the customer.
The bolt was simple to fix and could solve the problem of the car not starting.
Final Steps and Testing
Having connected the ground terminal, now was a good opportunity to try to start the car again.
The console received the key fob and a push of the button was made on the ignition switch.
Everyone who was in the car was relieved as it cranked and started successfully. This was a great step forward since the problem seemed to have been sorted out.
Verifying Additional Functions
While the car was running, it was a good time to check the other operational features of the vehicle like the liftgate.
If the liftgate was functioning as intended, it would imply that all of the systems were working properly and communicating with one another.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee UV owners.
In most situations, may be experiencing problems with the systems that control communication due to sporadic cranking problems.
In this case, the starting failures were attributed to a loose ground connection at the RF Hub. However, such situations can be avoided through regular maintenance and intensive inspections.
If the vehicle exhibits these or similar problems, a professional must assess the car to make sure it is repaired correctly.
FAQs
What to do if the push button start doesn’t work?
In almost all cases when a push button start will not work, the priority should be the battery in the key fob that operates the push button start.
A fob battery that is finished will stop it from activating. Secondly, confirm that the vehicle is placed in a park or neutral state.
Many times it is possible that the brake pedal is not fully pressed in the first place. If those fail, check to see if there is any warning light illumination, which may be indicative of some system being faulty or not functioning.
A broken keyless entry is one likely cause. First, allow several minutes to reset the system by removing the battery.
If the concern remains even after this action, then recourse should be made to check the starter or ignition system.
How to roll the windows down with the key fob Jeep Renegade?
In the case that you want to lower the car windows in your Jeep Renegade using the key fob, know that the vehicle must be unlocked first.
Press the unlock icon on the key fob and keep it depressed, don’t relieve it for a couple of seconds. This procedure activates the car windows allowing them to lower.
If you have this option available in your Renegade, then all windows should be able to lower at the same time.
To cease this operation, you only need to take your finger off the unlock button. Otherwise, if your window setup is any different, please refer to the owner’s manual for guidance.
However, one should keep in mind that this function is not present in all models, thus checking the features of the vehicle is reasonable.
How to start a Jeep Renegade with a key fob?
If you want to start a Jeep Renegade using a key fob, ensure that you have in possession this key fob device.
Get within reach of the car and ensure that the vehicle is not locked. Depress the pedal of the brake. Find the “Start/Stop” feature on the dashboard.
Still placing your foot firmly on the brake, push that button to start the engine. If the vehicle does not engage, assess the battery of the key fob or check to see if you have not moved beyond the range.
Some models may ask you to hold the fob next to the battery of the start button in case the battery is almost exhausted.
Once the vehicle has started, the lights on the dash should come on as they typically do when the vehicle has been engaged.
How do you roll all 4 windows down with a key fob?
It is first necessary to check whether the car is designed for that. So, you come up to the vehicle while holding the key fob.
Now, press maintains the unlock switch on the fob. Wait for a few moments. This, as a rule, extends the window arms.
Check your owner’s manual for specific steps, as certain models require you to press a specific button combination.
If this feature is not available on your car, consider using the driver’s side window controls instead.
Whenever you use the windows remotely, pay close attention to the surroundings. This function is really helpful on hot summer days.
Can I start my Jeep Renegade with my phone?
If your phone has the right technology, you can use it to start your Jeep Renegade. The Jeep Renegade has an option available through the Jeep application called ‘Remote Start’.
This app allows you to start your vehicle remotely using your smartphone.
When using this feature, make sure that your vehicle is compatible with it and that you have the respective app installed. In addition, you will need to verify your identity and register your vehicle.
If everything is correctly configured, you can simply open the application and click on the appropriate icon. In addition, it is extremely convenient in huge temperatures.
How do I auto-start my Jeep with a key fob?
To start a Jeep using a key fob, first confirm that your vehicle has the auto-start feature. First of all, find your key fob.
Lock the doors by pressing the lock button once. After this, press & hold the remote start button for about four seconds.
The lights flashing will indicate whether the engine has begun or not. To shut down the engine, To initiate the process once more, just activate the remote start button once again.
It is important to note that you put the Jeep in the park and close the hood before trying to start it for safety concerns.
You should always check your owner’s handbook to know how to start the engine and if it’s compatible with your model of Jeep. Make the most of remote starting the car.