Replacing the key fob battery in your 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee should be a straightforward task. However, you might encounter a frustrating issue where new batteries, surprisingly, don’t seem to work. Many owners have experienced putting in fresh batteries only to find their key fob still unresponsive. Interestingly, the old, seemingly dead battery often works intermittently, leading to confusion and wasted batteries.
One Jeep owner faced this exact problem. After trying several new and used batteries, none of them would operate the key fob functions. Each time, reinstalling the original, weak battery brought the fob back to life, albeit temporarily. The solution, in this particular case, was quite unexpected and not commonly documented.
The key to getting the new battery to work was to use the key fob to start the vehicle directly, employing the “fob-on-start-button” method—the same procedure used when the fob battery is presumed dead. After initiating the vehicle start in this manner, all key fob functions returned to normal operation. This suggests a possible undocumented process within the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s system. It’s speculated that either the key fob or the vehicle’s computer tracks battery voltage levels. When a new battery is installed, the system might not immediately recognize the change in power.
Even dealership staff may not be fully aware of this quirk. In the described situation, the dealer’s service options included selling a new key fob, overpriced batteries, or a reprogramming service—none covered under warranty. This experience mirrors a growing trend across auto manufacturers where basic maintenance issues can lead to costly dealership visits. What should be simple, do-it-yourself tasks are increasingly becoming profit centers.
It’s worth noting the battery life discrepancy observed. While an older 2002 Chrysler key fob battery lasted approximately 8 years, the 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee fob battery seems to last only 1-2 years. Although the older Chrysler didn’t have remote start, the Jeep’s remote start feature, while convenient, could contribute to quicker battery depletion, even with infrequent use of other fob functions like door locking and unlocking.
If you’re struggling with a new battery in your 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob, try the “fob-on-start-button” method. It might be the simple, undocumented fix you need to get everything working again without unnecessary dealer intervention.
