Is your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob acting up? Many owners immediately think of the battery when their key fob becomes unresponsive. While a dead battery is a common culprit, it’s not the only reason your key fob might be failing. This guide will walk you through understanding your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob, how to handle a dead battery, and when a battery replacement is actually necessary.
Understanding Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Key Fob: More Than Just Remote Buttons
Your Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob is a sophisticated piece of technology, actually containing multiple systems within a single device. It’s crucial to understand these systems to properly diagnose and address any issues you might encounter. Think of it as having at least two, possibly even three, distinct functions:
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Remote Functions: This is the part you’re likely most familiar with. Pressing buttons to lock and unlock doors, activate the panic alarm, or remotely start your 2017 Grand Cherokee relies on battery power to transmit radio signals to your vehicle. When these functions stop working, a dead key fob battery is often the cause.
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Transponder/RFID Chip (Immobilizer System): This is the system that allows your Jeep to recognize your key for starting the engine. This system utilizes a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, also known as a transponder. Crucially, this RFID chip does not require battery power from your key fob to function. It’s energized by a built-in antenna in your Jeep’s ignition system when the key fob is in close proximity.
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Proximity Enter and Go (Optional Feature): If your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with proximity enter and go, your key fob has an additional layer of technology. This feature allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without physically pressing buttons. This enhanced system does require battery power for the proximity function to work over a distance.
Starting Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a Dead Key Fob Battery
The good news is that even if your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob battery is completely dead, you can still start your vehicle. This is thanks to the battery-independent RFID chip. Here’s how to start your Jeep with a dead key fob battery:
For models with a traditional ignition switch (though less common in 2017 Grand Cherokees):
- Use the physical key inside your key fob to manually unlock the driver’s side door.
- Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn to start the engine, just like a traditional key start. The ignition antenna will energize the RFID chip, allowing your Jeep to recognize the key and start.
For models with Push-Button Start (more common for 2017 Grand Cherokees):
- Use the physical key inside your key fob to manually unlock the driver’s side door.
- Once inside, take your key fob and locate the bottom end (opposite the key insert).
- Press the bottom end of the key fob directly against the Engine Start/Stop button.
- While holding the key fob against the button, press the Engine Start/Stop button as you normally would to start your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee. This brings the RFID chip close enough to the ignition antenna to be energized and allow starting.
Image: A typical Jeep key fob, similar to those used with the 2017 Grand Cherokee. Note the physical key insert, which is crucial for accessing the vehicle with a dead fob battery.
When to Replace Your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Key Fob Battery
While you can still start your Jeep with a dead key fob battery, replacing it is necessary to restore full functionality, especially for remote features and proximity entry if your vehicle is equipped with it. You should consider replacing your key fob battery if you notice any of these symptoms:
- Decreased Remote Range: You need to be much closer to your Jeep than usual for the remote lock/unlock or remote start to work.
- Intermittent Button Response: You have to press the buttons multiple times, or very firmly, for them to function.
- “Key Fob Battery Low” Message: Some 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee models may display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.
- Proximity Entry/Go Issues (if equipped): The proximity unlock feature becomes unreliable or stops working altogether.
Replacing the battery in your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob is a straightforward process you can often do yourself. Typically, these key fobs use a CR2032 type battery, which is widely available. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on accessing the battery compartment and the correct battery type for your key fob.
Troubleshooting Starting Problems: It Might Not Always Be the Key Fob Battery
It’s important to remember that starting issues with your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee are not always due to the key fob battery. If you are experiencing difficulty starting your vehicle, even using the dead key fob starting methods described above, the problem might lie elsewhere.
A common culprit is a weak or dead car battery. The RFID system, while not powered by the key fob battery, does rely on sufficient voltage from your Jeep’s car battery to energize the ignition antenna. If your car battery is too weak, it may not provide enough power to activate the RFID chip reader, even with a perfectly good key fob.
You might even receive an “Invalid Key” message on your Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) if your car battery is severely depleted, mistakenly leading you to believe there’s a key fob issue. If you experience starting problems, especially in conjunction with other electrical issues like dimming lights or slow cranking, have your car battery tested first.
Image: Close-up of a push-button start ignition, similar to that found in many 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee models. Starting a vehicle with a dead key fob battery often involves pressing the fob against this button.
Conclusion: Keep Your Key Fob Battery in Mind, But Consider the Bigger Picture
Understanding how your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob works, particularly the distinction between battery-powered remote functions and the battery-free RFID starting system, can save you time and prevent unnecessary worry. While replacing the key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can resolve many common key fob issues, remember to also consider the health of your car battery if you encounter persistent starting problems. By keeping both your key fob and car battery in good condition, you can ensure reliable operation and avoid being stranded.
