Experiencing issues with your 2011 Dodge Durango key fob? It can be frustrating when your key fob suddenly stops working, especially when the proximity functions are still operational. You’re not alone. Many 2011 Dodge Durango owners have encountered similar problems where the buttons on their key fobs become unresponsive while the keyless entry and ignition still function correctly. Let’s explore the potential causes and troubleshooting steps to get your key fob buttons working again.
One common observation is that while the buttons for lock, unlock, and trunk release cease to function, the proximity features, allowing you to unlock the door by touching the handle and start the car, remain unaffected. This distinction is crucial because it suggests that the issue might not be with the key fob battery itself. It’s reasonable to assume that if the battery were completely dead, neither function would work. The fact that proximity features are still working points towards a more specific problem within the Durango’s remote keyless entry system.
Another related symptom reported by Durango owners is a car clock that loses time and doesn’t self-correct. This might seem unrelated to the key fob issue at first glance, but it could indicate a broader problem with the vehicle’s computer systems or communication modules that handle both the remote keyless entry and time synchronization. If your car clock is also showing signs of malfunction, it strengthens the possibility of a deeper electronic issue rather than just simple key fob battery drain.
So, what could be causing your 2011 Dodge Durango key fob buttons to stop working while proximity functions remain active? Here are a few potential areas to investigate:
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Key Fob Battery (Partial Drain): While proximity functions might still work with a low battery, the button functions could be more sensitive to voltage drops. It’s possible that the battery is weak enough to power the proximity chip but not strong enough for the button transmitters. Trying a fresh battery in your key fob is always a good first step and a simple solution to rule out.
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Receiver Antenna or Module Issue: As speculated, the button press and proximity functions might operate on different frequencies or use separate antennas and receiver modules in the vehicle. If the antenna or receiver responsible for capturing the button signals is faulty, it would explain why those functions are failing while proximity continues to work. This could involve a problem with the Radio Frequency (RF) receiver module in your Durango.
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Software Glitch or Computer Hang-up: Modern vehicles rely heavily on computer systems. It’s conceivable that the computer module responsible for processing key fob button commands has encountered a software glitch or is in a hung state. This could be a temporary issue that might be resolved by a system reset.
To troubleshoot this “2011 Dodge Durango Key Fob Not Working” problem, consider these steps:
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Replace the Key Fob Battery: Even if you suspect the battery isn’t the primary issue, replacing it with a new, high-quality battery is a quick and inexpensive step to eliminate it as a possibility. Ensure you are using the correct type of battery for your key fob.
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Check the Car Battery: A weak car battery can sometimes cause unusual electrical issues. Ensure your Durango’s battery is properly charged and in good condition.
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Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your 2011 Dodge Durango owner’s manual may contain troubleshooting steps for key fob issues or information about resetting the remote keyless entry system.
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Seek Professional Diagnosis: If replacing the key fob battery doesn’t resolve the problem, and the issue persists, it’s advisable to seek professional diagnosis from a qualified automotive technician or a Dodge dealership. They have specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose potential issues with the receiver module, antenna, or vehicle computer systems. They can also check for any fault codes related to the remote keyless entry system.
In conclusion, while a non-working key fob button on your 2011 Dodge Durango can be inconvenient, understanding the distinction between button and proximity functions can help narrow down the potential causes. Starting with simple steps like battery replacement and progressing to professional diagnostics if needed will help you effectively address this issue and regain full functionality of your key fob. Remember to address the clock issue as well, as it might be related to the same underlying electronic problem.
