Many Jeep owners have reported the 2017 Jeep Renegade replacement key fob has not detected an issue in recent times. Apart from the 2017 model, there have been reports of other models with similar issues, but what could be the course?
When this warning sign appears, it simply means that the car’s system is experiencing an error, making it impossible to start the engine even if the key fob is inside the ignition.
If your Jeep Renegade key fob not detected issue persists, there are more than a few things you can do to set it right, like replacing the battery or faulty antenna.
You can also place the key fob in the start-stop button for 5 seconds before using the top of the fob to press the button again until the ignition starts. These actions may fix the error, but you can do more.
This article contains quick fixes that can greatly help in your time of need. Keep reading to learn more.
Jeep Renegade Key Fob Not Detected – 7 Common Reasons
A key fob not detected error is common among keyless entry cars, including Jeep SUVs like the 2015 model, 2016 model, 2017 model, and subsequent models released to the market.
Despite having newer ignition models like push-to-start, keyless fobs may disappoint you at the eleventh hour when you least expect.
Imagine a situation where you are in the middle of nowhere at night and are in a hurry to get home, only for your key fob to disappoint you; frustration and anger will be the least of your worries.
There are more than a few reasons why a Jeep Renegade key fob not detected issue may transpire. We address the common reasons in this section.
1. Dead Key Fob Battery
A system failure is a certainty if the key fob battery is dead. You should understand that the fob can only send signals to the keyless entry system with battery power.
Once the battery dies, signal transmission is no longer possible.
If you don’t have a spare fob, you cannot activate the activation, and this error message may appear.
2. Damaged Key Fob
Another reason a 2020 Jeep Renegade key fob is not detected is that an error may appear on your dashboard if damaged.
Fobs are very sensitive to falls or water, and both are the leading causes of damage. If your fob falls to the ground, some wires may be ruptured in the process.
Jeep Renegade replacement key fob not detecting error may occur if the key fob falls into water, as moisture may damage the transmitter. In such a situation, you may have to go for servicing or buy a new fob.
3. Wrong Key
Mistakes are common, so you may use the wrong key for your 2020 model without knowing. This is normal if you have two or more vehicles with respective keys. Keyless entry fobs are unique and will not ignite a different car. You need to be sure that you are using the right fob.
4. Programming Fault
You can also notice a 2018 Jeep Renegade key fob does not detect an error message if the fob’s programming is faulty. Programming faults are common if the battery is replaced recently. You must seek expert intervention to correct the programming in such a situation.
5. Keyless Entry Malfunction
The wires in the keyless entry system may just begin to malfunction if a key fob not detected Jeep Renegade error arises.
This may also occur if the start button develops a fault all of a sudden. Identifying the root cause might be tricky, so car owners experiencing this problem are advised to take their cars to a service center for diagnosis and repair.
6. Signal Interference
Your key fob may be working just fine, but if the signal is jamming due to interference, the fob will not be detected by the keyless entry system.
Factors responsible for this include an anti-theft alarm system, radar detectors nearby, etc. These systems may disrupt signal transmission, and your Renegade Jeep may be unable to interpret signals.
You should also be very watchful if this happens in a crowded place like a shopping mall or park with lots of cars and people because carjackers use transmission blockers to disrupt signals, so you leave your cars unlocked.
Once you leave the scene, they will make away with your vehicle. This is something to take seriously, especially in crowded urban areas where carjacking is common.
7. Worn Out Battery
The last possible cause of this error in a 2019 model is a worn-out car battery. This vehicle’s battery is about to die, the system will not respond to the signal your fob is sending. You may need to change the battery in due course.
How To Fix A Jeep Renegade Key Fob? 7 Easy Fixes
So what do you do when this error message appears in your 2022 model? Do you panic, thinking there is no solution to the problem, or do you reverse the situation?
There are seven ways to fix the issue, but that will depend on the root cause of the problem in the first place.
One easy method is to press the push start button. This action will trigger the receiver to perform a given function of turning the engine on.
If this action doesn’t work, all hope is not lost. Here are seven easy fixes.
1. Improve Contact Conductivity
One step to take is to improve context conductivity. You can troubleshoot problems and fix them promptly. It may be that the fob is dirty, leading to conductivity loss.
Do well to clean the contacts using a microfiber fabric and coating it with alcohol. If there are broken contacts, make sure you replace them. You should also check the circuitry for electric damage and fix any affected parts.
Also, check for trapped debris between contacts and the fob’s case.
Another quick fix is to remove obstructions (if any) using a plier. If none of these actions fixes the problem, it may require a receiver replacement. This works for all models.
2. Fob Battery Replacement
The second fix we want to touch on is the fob battery. Ensure the fob’s battery is on order to resolve a 2021 Jeep key fob not detected.
If the keyless entry system is not receiving signals, it may be that the battery is dead, so a replacement is required.
Disconnect your fob from the Jeep’s electric system to replace the fob’s battery. Take out all the screws to expose the receiver.
Remove the battery and install a new one, then reinstall all the screws and the cover.
This action will stop the error message, but the battery is not responsible if it doesn’t. Continue reading for more quick fixes.
3. Faulty Antenna
You should check out the antenna. Is it damaged or misaligned? This condition may cause a signal loss. Check the condition and connection of the antenna to ensure it is working perfectly.
A very good antenna is Rydonair fit for all Jeep types onto all Renegade Jeep models. It is built with flexible materials and premium outer rubber construction for durability and weather resistance.
It has a stylish look that will improve signal transmission and the exterior of your vehicle. Rydonair is very easy to install within seconds and works for AM and FM bands. If you go for this antenna, you are guaranteed a far superior reception.
If it is not working properly, consider replacing it with a new one. If the problem persists, take it to a car care center for inspection.
4. Fuse Replacement
Another way to fix a key fob not detected in the 2016 Jeep Renegade is to replace your fuse box.
Try resetting the key fob with the push stop and start button before changing the fuse.
If the new fuse doesn’t stop the error message, there may be another cause.
5. Key Fob Reprogramming
Remember we noted in the previous section that the error may be because of faulty programming?
It would be best if you tried reprogramming your fob by reverting to default mode; you can do this yourself or have an expert do it for you.
If this doesn’t work, take it for repairs.
6. Unblock Signals
Make sure there is no signal obstruction in the way. If an object like a huge metal or another car is on the way, the car will not receive signals.
So, put away any object and try the fob once again.
7. Change The Jeep Fob Receiver
If you suspect the fob receiver is faulty in your 2016 model, you can replace it yourself. Buy a new receiver and follow the instructions when Installing it.
This should fix the error.
Keyless2Go is a very good option for all Renegade models.
It works for Jeeps that operate with 3 button control mechanisms. It is an affordable replacement for an original fob that no longer serves its purpose.
You can also use it for brands like Dodge, Wrangler, and Chrysler. Each unit is pre-tested before they are introduced to the market, and they are self-programmable, so you don’t need any special expertise to program yours.
Should you go for Keyless2Go, you are guaranteed a complete pack containing the fob and battery, including customer support for troubleshooting.
These 7 quick fixes will set your Jeep keyless entry system right, and the fob will begin to work normally. They work for all models including older models like the 2018 model, 2021 model, and the latest versions like the 2025 model.
However, if these fixes do not work, seek expert intervention speedily to address the situation.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing a Jeep Renegade key fob not detected error message, it is nothing to fret about.
This may be because the keyless entry system is not receiving signals from the key fob, the key fob receiver is bad, or the battery is weak. Many factors may trigger this error message.
In this article, we have recommended seven easy fixes, like changing the fob battery, ensuring that no obstacle obstructs the signal, changing the car antenna, and more.
One or more factors may cause the error, so using all the tips provided will help. If none of our suggestions work, we recommend visiting a car care center so an expert may diagnose the root cause and fix the issue.
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Last update on 2025-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
