Changing the battery in your Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob should be a straightforward task. However, sometimes you might find yourself in a situation where the fob doesn’t seem to work even after installing a fresh battery. You’re not alone, and there’s a simple trick that might get you back on the road without a trip to the dealership.
The Unexpected Key Fob Issue After Battery Replacement
Many Jeep Grand Cherokee owners have experienced a peculiar problem: replacing the key fob battery with a brand new one, only to have the fob remain unresponsive. It’s a frustrating scenario, especially when the old, weak battery still manages to operate the key fob, albeit intermittently. You might try multiple new batteries, thinking you’ve purchased faulty ones, but the issue persists.
The Fob-on-Start-Button Solution
Before you consider expensive solutions like a new key fob or dealer reprogramming, try this simple method. If your key fob is not working after a battery change, proceed to your Jeep Grand Cherokee and use the “fob-on-start-button” method, which is typically used when your key fob battery is dead.
To do this, get into your Jeep and attempt to start the vehicle by pressing the start button with the key fob itself. Hold the key fob directly against the start button and push to start the engine.
Why This Trick Works
While not officially documented, this method appears to reset or resynchronize the key fob with your Jeep’s system after a battery change. It’s speculated that there might be a memory function in either the fob or the vehicle that monitors battery levels. When a new battery is installed, the system might not immediately recognize the change in power. Using the fob directly on the start button could override this and re-establish communication.
Avoid Unnecessary Dealer Costs
Dealerships might suggest costly solutions like selling you a new key fob or reprogramming your existing one, often not covered under warranty. Before resorting to these measures, trying the fob-on-start-button method can save you time and money. It’s a quick, easy DIY fix that addresses a surprisingly common issue with Jeep Grand Cherokee key fobs after a battery change.
This simple procedure could be the key to resolving your key fob issues and getting back to enjoying the convenience of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
