Lost your spare key fob for your 2016 Jeep Patriot? Or perhaps you’ve purchased a new blank key fob and need to get it working? The good news is, if you have two working key fobs, you can program a new one yourself right at home! This guide, brought to you by the experts at keyfobprog.com, will walk you through the simple steps to program your 2016 Jeep Patriot Key Fob, saving you time and money compared to dealership programming fees.
Step-by-Step Guide to Programming Your 2016 Jeep Patriot Key Fob
The 2016 Jeep Patriot owner’s manual outlines a straightforward procedure for customer key programming. This method is designed for owners who already have two valid, working Sentry Keys. If you meet this requirement, follow these steps carefully:
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Prepare the New Key: First, you’ll need to have the new Sentry Key transponder blank cut to match your ignition switch lock cylinder key code. This ensures the mechanical key will actually turn in your ignition. You can typically get this done at a locksmith or the dealership.
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Insert the First Valid Key: Take one of your two existing, working key fobs and insert it into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position. This is the position just before you would crank the engine to start. Hold it in this position for at least three seconds, but importantly, no longer than 15 seconds.
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Remove the First Key and Insert the Second Valid Key: Turn the ignition switch back to the LOCK position and remove the first key. Immediately, within 15 seconds, insert your second valid, working key fob into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch again to the ON/RUN position.
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Wait for the Chime and Security Light: Keep the second key in the ON/RUN position. After approximately 10 seconds, you will hear a chime sound. Simultaneously, the Vehicle Security Light on your dashboard will begin to flash. This indicates the system is ready to learn a new key.
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Remove the Second Key and Insert the New Blank Key: Turn the ignition switch to the LOCK position and remove the second valid key. Now, within 60 seconds, insert the new, uncut blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch. Turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position once more.
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Programming Confirmation: After about 10 seconds, you should hear a single chime. The Vehicle Security Light will stop flashing, and then it will turn on solid for three seconds before turning off completely. This sequence confirms that the new Sentry Key has been successfully programmed to your 2016 Jeep Patriot. The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions, like locking and unlocking your doors remotely, will also be programmed during this process.
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Test the New Key: Remove the newly programmed key and test all its functions. Try starting your Jeep Patriot with it and using the remote lock/unlock buttons.
You can repeat this entire procedure to program up to a total of eight keys for your 2016 Jeep Patriot.
What if You Only Have One Working Key Fob?
The DIY programming procedure outlined above specifically requires two valid Sentry Keys to start. If you only have one working key, or if you’ve lost all your keys, you won’t be able to use this method. In these situations, you will need to seek professional help.
Your options include:
- Authorized Jeep Dealer: A Jeep dealership will have the diagnostic equipment necessary to program new key fobs even without existing working keys. However, this is typically the most expensive option.
- Automotive Locksmith: A qualified automotive locksmith often provides a more affordable alternative to the dealership. Many locksmiths have the tools and expertise to program key fobs for vehicles like the 2016 Jeep Patriot. Be sure to choose a reputable locksmith experienced with modern vehicle security systems.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Timing is Important: Pay close attention to the timing in each step. Don’t hold the key in the ON/RUN position for longer than 15 seconds in step 2, and ensure you insert the next key within the specified timeframes.
- Valid Keys are Crucial: This DIY method only works if you start with two valid Sentry Keys. If one or both of your existing keys are faulty or not properly recognized by the system, the programming may fail.
- New Key Compatibility: Ensure the new key fob you are trying to program is compatible with your 2016 Jeep Patriot. Purchase your blank key from a reputable source that guarantees compatibility.
- Owner’s Manual Reference: Always refer to your official 2016 Jeep Patriot owner’s manual for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions. The page number for customer key programming is often around page 16, but this can vary slightly depending on the manual version.
Conclusion
Programming a new key fob for your 2016 Jeep Patriot can be a simple DIY task if you have two existing working keys. By following these steps from keyfobprog.com and referencing your owner’s manual, you can save yourself a trip to the dealer and the associated costs. However, if you encounter issues or don’t have two valid keys, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified professional like a Jeep dealership or automotive locksmith for assistance.
