Discovering you need a new key fob for your 2017 Jeep Cherokee can be frustrating, especially when you learn about the hefty price tag from dealerships, often exceeding $300 for a replacement fob and the programming service. However, if you’re already equipped with the AlfaOBD mobile app and a compatible OBD2 adapter like the OBDLink MX+ or vLinker MC+, you possess the necessary tools to program a new key fob yourself. This guide will walk you through the process, saving you significant money compared to dealer or locksmith costs. We extend our gratitude to the JeepCherokeeClub.com forum members, particularly @erikrj, for their invaluable shared experiences and tips in DIY key fob replacement.
Step 1: Selecting the Correct Blank Key Fob
Choosing the right blank key fob is crucial. Jeep Cherokee fobs are unique and not interchangeable with those from other FCA models. Many third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress incorrectly list fobs for Grand Cherokees (WK2) and RAM 1500s (DT/DS) as compatible with the Cherokee. This is a mistake that can lead to purchasing the wrong fob.
To ensure compatibility, identify your ignition system type:
- Push-To-Start (Keyless) Ignition: Use fob Model: GQ4-54T, Frequency: 433Mhz.
- Key-in-Ignition Slot: Use fob Model: GQ4-53T, Frequency: 433Mhz.
Crucially, verify that the fob you intend to purchase explicitly mentions the Transponder Chip: HITAG AES, CHIP 4A / PCF7961M chip. This chip specification is paramount. If these terms (“HITAG”, “AES”, “4A”, or “PCF7961M”) are absent from the product description, the fob is unlikely to work with your 2017 Jeep Cherokee. Do not purchase a blank FOB that does not specifically list one of these chip types.
Furthermore, ensure the replacement fob has the same number of buttons as your original. If your original fob includes features like remote start or a power liftgate, your new fob must also have corresponding buttons (3 or 4-button models).
Example of a Compatible Key Fob: This example highlights a key fob that will work with your Jeep Cherokee KL. It correctly specifies the part number as either “GQ4-53T” or “GQ4-54T”, the 433Mhz frequency, and, most importantly, confirms the HITAG AES 4A / PCF7961M chip, all essential for 2017 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob Programming.
Example of an Incompatible Key Fob: Be cautious of listings that claim “Cherokee compatibility” but are misleading. This example, often intended for RAM 1500/2500 vehicles, may list “GQ4-53T” part number but fails to specify the HITAG AES 4A / PCF7961M chip. Despite mentioning “Cherokee”, this fob is incompatible and will not program to your vehicle. The same caution applies to fobs advertised for “Grand Cherokee,” which are frequently mistaken for regular Cherokee fobs. Different models, different key fobs.
Step 2: Testing Your New Blank Fob
Once you receive your new, unprogrammed key fob, it’s vital to test its basic compatibility before proceeding with programming. Ensure all your currently programmed key fobs are away from the vehicle during this test.
- Door Chime Test: With the driver’s door open, insert the new, unprogrammed fob into the key slot (for key-type ignition models) or have it inside the vehicle (for keyless models). Listen for the open-door chimes.
- EVIC “Key In Ignition” Test: Turn the key to the ACC (Accessory) position or press the Push To Start button once (without starting the engine). Check if the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) displays “Key In Ignition”.
Important Compatibility Check: If you hear the door chimes and the EVIC displays “Key In Ignition,” your 2017 Jeep Cherokee recognizes the blank fob as the correct type. You can confidently proceed to the programming step. However, if you don’t hear chimes and the EVIC remains dark, your Cherokee is not recognizing the fob. This indicates a potential issue with the fob’s frequency, chip type, encryption, or a combination of these factors. In this case, STOP. This fob cannot be programmed to your Cherokee. Return it and order a verified compatible replacement.
Step 3: Programming Your 2017 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob
With a compatible blank fob confirmed, you can now proceed with programming using the AlfaOBD app and your OBD2 adapter.
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Connect OBD2 Adapter & AlfaOBD: Plug your OBD2 adapter into your Jeep Cherokee’s OBD2 port. With the ignition in the RUN position (key turned to RUN or Push To Start pressed twice without starting the engine), establish a connection with AlfaOBD.
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Select Radio Frequency HUB (RFH) Module: In AlfaOBD, navigate to module selection and choose the “Radio Frequency HUB” module. Then, press “Connect”.
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Read System Status: Once connected to the RFH module, select “READ SYSTEM STATUS“.
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Verify Programmed Key Fob Count: Scroll down to “Number of Key Fobs Programmed“. Confirm that the count is 7 or less. A 2017 Jeep Cherokee can have a maximum of 8 key fobs programmed at any time. If all 8 slots are full (unlikely unless you’ve lost and replaced many fobs), you’ll need to erase existing keys first. For this guide, we assume you have fewer than 8 programmed fobs.
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Retrieve PIN Code: In the RFH module dropdown menu, locate the option to read the PIN number. This unique PIN is stored within your Cherokee’s RFH and is essential for key fob programming. Note down this PIN code.
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Initiate Key Fob Programming: Under the “Program Ignition FOBIKs…” dropdown menu, select the appropriate option based on your ignition type:
- [5a] ‘key-in-ignition slot’ style fob (Baseline): Choose this option if your Cherokee uses a key-in-ignition.
- [5b] “Push To Start” (Highline) keyless fob: Choose this for push-button start models.
Enter the PIN code you recorded in step 4 when prompted and press “START” to begin the wireless key fob programming process.
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Verify Successful Programming: Once programming completes, AlfaOBD should display a “Successful” message. To confirm, return to “RFH System Status” and check “Number of Key Fobs Programmed“. The count should have increased by one. Note: If the count hasn’t immediately updated, cycle the driver’s door open and closed to simulate entry/exit, wait about 20 seconds, and re-check. Sometimes, there might be a slight delay in the update appearing in AlfaOBD.
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Optional: Cutting the Emergency Physical Key: Each key fob includes a slot for a physical emergency key. This key is solely for unlocking the driver’s door manually if the car or fob battery dies. It does not start the vehicle, as there’s no physical ignition slot on the dashboard. This is a standard double-sided auto key, not a laser-cut key.
You can have this key cut at any locksmith, Home Depot, Lowes, or similar service by providing one of your existing, cut keys as a template. If you’ve lost all physical keys, you’ll need to visit a Jeep dealer to obtain the original key code associated with your vehicle from the factory. A locksmith can then use this code to create a duplicate physical key.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully programmed a new key fob for your 2017 Jeep Cherokee. Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the savings you’ve realized by taking the DIY route for your key fob programming needs!
