If you own a Grand Cherokee Jeep, you are likely to encounter several errors along the line, and one of them is a Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob not detected. This is not an uncommon problem, as many drivers have experienced it at one time or the other.
In a 2014 model or other Cherokee Jeep models, a key fob not detected Jeep Grand Cherokee error may be caused by a broken fob, faulty receiver, or a dead battery.
Several issues may be responsible for this, but there are quick fixes and simple solutions that can set things right.
In this article, we will highlight these possible issues regarding your 2016 model or later versions and discuss quick fixes.
The fixes have been thoroughly researched, so you have nothing to worry about, as they will work for your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more.
What Is A Key Fob?
Key fobs are small remote-controlled handheld devices used to operate keyless entry systems. When the button is pressed it unlocks the car. This technology has revolutionized the security systems of modern vehicles.
Fobs use RFID technology and are programmed to execute different commands. This may include opening the doors or starting the engine. Furthermore, most automotive fobs have multiple functions assigned to each button.
They are typically enclosed in a small plastic container and are quite handy. Some units look like badges that only require a slight press to activate the keyless system.
Not all fobs work for all vehicles as they come in different specifications so motorists are advised to only install units that are compatible with their vehicle.
Key Fob Caveats
- Check if your car has a split-year.
- Not all aftermarket fobs will work for your Jeep model.
- Key fobs have small back stickers that have their serial and FCC numbers.
- When shopping for a fob you will need information such as your car brand, year, model, and the VIN.
Now that you know what a key fob is, let us delve further into the reasons why your key fob may be detected by your car’s keyless entry system.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Key Fob Not Detected or Working: 8 Common Causes
The first thing you should know is that several factors are responsible for a malfunctioning key fob. So, if you notice this error, be aware that one or more factors may be at play.
Identifying the problem is necessary before proffering a solution, as this will save you time and resources.
| Factors Responsible | Quick Fixes |
|---|---|
| Dead Fob Battery | Replace Fob Battery |
| Faulty Connection | Improved Connection Through Repairs/Change Antenna |
| Wrong Key Fob | Use the Right Key Fob |
| Programming Issue | Reprogram Fob |
| Worn Out Car Battery | Replace Car Battery |
| Faulty Car Lock | Fix Locks |
| Radio signal interference | Remove Signal Obstructions |
| Broken Wire | Replace Wires/Change Fuse/Change Receiver |
You will also avoid potential hazards associated with a malfunctioning key fob.
So take your time to learn more about possible factors responsible for the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob not working. Here they are:
1. Dead Fob Battery
Key fobs require a battery to transmit signals so commands can be executed. While batteries have extended life, they do not operate infinitely.
Along the line, they run out of power; when they do, the fob will either not work or malfunction.
Battery life is greatly affected if the weather is extremely cold and you leave the fob exposed in the open or if the fob is exposed to hot weather. A weak fob battery will not be able to detect the fob.
2. Faulty Connection
If the connection is faulty or loose, just know that the fob will not work as the vehicle will not detect it.
Faulty connections may occur for several reasons, such as corrosion or dirt. Any foreign body that interacts with the transmission will cause signal loss.
3. A Wrong Key Fob
This one is quite obvious, Isn’t it? Using the wrong key fob on your vehicle will not work even if it is in its best condition.
Fobs have unique RFID chips that interact with the vehicle they are installed in, so if the vehicle receiver doesn’t recognize the fob sending the signal, it will not work.
If you have two or more vehicles that use key fobs, be mindful of the one you step out with lest you pick up the wrong one for the wrong vehicle.
4. Programming Issue
Electronic transmitters rely on programming to send signals, but if the programming is faulty or the module is damaged, it will not work.
The keyless entry system in the vehicle must get the right signals; otherwise, a key fob will not be detected 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be the result.
5. Radio Interference
If a radio signal in the area interferes with your fob’s signal, detection will be hard to come by. A metal object may affect the signal or an active electric equipment.
Furthermore, if there are active radio transmitters or towers in the area, your key fob may not work as well as it should or not.
6. Worn Out Battery
A weak battery is not the only thing that can affect your keyless entry system. If the battery suffers from wear and tear, sending signals will be difficult, if not impossible.
Some things like irregular use may escalate battery wear and tear. If you don’t use your vehicle often, the battery will begin to wear down since it will be out of action for a long time.
Another factor that may cause battery degradation is if you have so many gadgets in the car that draw power.
Drawing power from the battery will drain it faster than usual, leading to key fob detection problems, among other issues.
7. Faulty Lock
A Faulty lock may not seem like an obvious problem, but there are reports of faulty locks that can trigger this error.
If the door lock is bad, the fob may be unable to detect the keyless entry system. If the lock has a broken wire, the fob will not work, or water has damaged the keyless system.
This problem may be difficult for you to fix on your own, but this is something an auto mechanic can remedy in no time.
8. Wire Breaks
Last but not least, of possible reason as to why your key fob has left the vehicle jeep is if a wire is broken inside it.
If the fob falls from your hand on a hard place by accident, one or two wires may be affected, but this can be fixed.
Key Fob Not Working in Your Jeep Grand Cherokee? Try These 7 Fixes
Is it possible to fix a key fob not detected error? The answer is yes, but your approach will depend on the root cause of the problem. A proper fix is only possible after doing a thorough evaluation.
If the key fob battery is dead, replacing it with a new battery will fix the problem. If the fob is bad, the only option is to get a new one.
However, in a situation where it stops working, all of a sudden, something more serious may be in play. Below are some helpful tips to fix issues affecting your key fob’s functionality.
1. Improve Contact Conductivity
If foreign agents affect the signal transmission, the keyless entry system will not detect the fob signals. Corrosion or dirt are common causes of signal interference, but these can be fixed.
If your 2017 or 2018 model is experiencing an undetected key fob error due to poor conductivity, you can do any of the following.
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean the contacts thoroughly
- Check for trapped debris in between contacts and remove them
- Replace rusted or broken contacts
- Check for electric circuitry damage and fix, if any
- Use nose pliers to eject any foreign body between contacts
If your 2019 model is experiencing a Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob not detected issue because of poor conductivity, these steps will fix it.
2. Change The Battery
Another measure you can take is to change the key fob battery if you notice it is weak. A weak battery is as hard as a battery-less fob because it will disappoint you when you least expect it.
If the fob isn’t working and you notice it is because of the battery, you can replace it. Just use a driver to remove the screws holding the cover in place.
Once the cover is off, remove the battery.
Replace the new battery with a new one, then replace the cover and the screws. This action will correct the error if the battery is responsible.
3. Change The Antenna
A faulty antenna may be responsible for the error continuing despite changing the battery. A broken or misaligned antenna will not receive signals as well as it should.
Start by checking your connections and tighten screws if required. Check connections to make sure nothing is out of place.
If nothing works, you might need to replace the antenna.
4. Reprogram Fob
If it is a programming issue, no quick fix will resolve it until it is reprogrammed. You may need an expert for this, though.
The expert will check if the fob is compatible with the Jeep and will reprogram it if necessary by returning it to its default setting.
5. Fuse Replacement
Another quick fix is to replace the fuse in case the fuse box is faulty. Replacement should only be done as a last resort if you are sure that the box is broken.
If the box appears in good condition, you can rest it by holding the fob and the lock button for about 10 – 15 seconds, then release it to get it up to speed. If this doesn’t work, a fuse change may be necessary.
6. Remove Signal Obstructions
You always keep your eye out for signal obstructors, as they may affect functionality.
If large materials like metal, another car, or active radio towers are in the area, your fob may not work.
Remove any obstruction that you can or change your position to face the vehicle at close quarters before activating the fob.
7. Change The Receiver
The last quick fix worth mentioning is a receiver change. If you suspect the receiver is faulty or your auto mechanic has diagnosed this fault, you must change the receiver to make the fob functional again.
Best Remote Receivers for Seamless Performance: Top 2 Picks
The good news is that there are more than a few good models in the market. Here are two very good receivers you can go for.
1. VONVOFF Wireless Remote Switch
VONVOFF Wireless Remote Switch is a long-range keyless system that can transmit signals from your location to your vehicle at a distance of 328ft.
It has a high power load for extended stability and control.
Vonvoff has strong signals and is easy to control, install, and operate. It can control a wide range of applications in your car including the doors, lamps, windows, and ignition.
2. FushionSea Universal Remote
FushionSea Universal Remote is another relatively good system for your Grand Cherokee Jeep models especially for the 2020 model, and the latest versions.
It has two-channel RFs and works with various wireless controls.
FushionSea is easy to use and is tested before the unit for s shipped to the buyer to ensure they get a functional system.
The system is easy to program using a 2-way relay with a long-range signal that cuts through walls for single or multiple controls.
FushionSea is a system that can be trusted for long-term functionality and it guarantees value for money.
The above are helpful fixes for the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob not working, but they can also work for 2021, 2022, and 2023 models.
Starting A Grand Cherokee Jeep Without The Key Fob
If you ever experience a faulty key fob error, you can still start the vehicle using the ignition key.
Discarding your car keys is risky, even if your automatic keyless system has never had a fault.
Always keep the keys handy and safe, as you never know when you need them.
Once you’ve noticed the fob malfunctioning, go the old-fashioned route by inserting the key into the locks to unlock the doors and do the same for the ignition to start the engine.
Then, take your Jeep to the nearest car care center to fix the problem.
Reprogramming A Key Fob Yourself
You can reprogram the fob for your keyless entry system if you know the steps. If you do it correctly, the system will function as intended. Just do the following.
- Mount the driver seat and shut all doors
- Place the key in the ignition and direct it to the “On” position, but don’t start it
- Press then release the “Lock” button
- After 5 seconds, hold down the “Unlock” button for 2 seconds minimum
- Release the Lock and Unlock buttons simultaneously
- Turn off the ignition and eject the key
- Doors will unlock, and the fob will be fully programmed for action
If these steps don’t work, enlist the help of a car professional.
Conclusion
A Jeep Grand Cherokee key fob not detected error may be caused by several factors highlighted in this article. Identifying the factors is the first step to resolving the issue.
Some quick fixes include changing the fob battery, adjusting or replacing the antenna, changing the fuse box if necessary, or eradicating connection obstructors.
Other fixes include reprogramming the fob or changing the antennas. The solution will depend on the root cause of the error. Adopt the right fox, and your keyless entry system will begin to function as well as ever.
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Last update on 2025-08-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
