Experiencing problems with your Ram 1500 key fob? It can be frustrating when your remote start is unreliable or your doors won’t unlock at the first press. While there could be several reasons for key fob malfunctions, one of the most common culprits is surprisingly simple: the battery for your Ram 1500 key fob might be the issue.
Many owners automatically assume a key fob problem is complex, but often, it’s just a matter of a weak or dying battery. Even if the indicator light on your fob illuminates when you press a button, it doesn’t guarantee the battery is in optimal condition. These batteries can weaken over time, especially if they’ve been sitting on the shelf for a while before being installed in your fob, or if your fob has been in use since you bought your Ram 1500.
One user reported their original battery was still going strong after 16 months, even with remote starts from a considerable distance. However, battery life can vary. Before you delve into more complicated troubleshooting, replacing the battery for your Ram 1500 key fob is a straightforward and inexpensive first step. It’s a good idea to start here, as it eliminates a very common problem quickly.
Another potential, though less frequent, issue to consider, especially if battery replacement doesn’t solve the problem, is interference from LED lights. Interestingly, some Ram 1500 owners have noted that aftermarket LED bulbs, particularly in the Center High Mounted Stop Light (CHMSL) or even garage door opener LEDs, can sometimes interfere with key fob signals. While this might sound unusual, it’s worth noting if you’ve recently upgraded to LEDs in these areas.
If you find yourself needing to press the start button multiple times while inside your truck, or if you discover the “dead fob battery” trick (using the fob to physically press the start button) works, this strongly suggests a battery issue. This trick works because the truck can read the RFID chip in the fob even with a very weak or dead battery when it’s in close proximity to the ignition.
Before assuming more complex electronic issues, prioritize changing the battery for your Ram 1500 key fob. It’s a simple fix that resolves a surprisingly large number of key fob problems and can save you time and potential frustration. Checking for oxidation on the battery contacts inside the fob is also a quick inspection point once you have the fob open for battery replacement.
