Jeep Key Fob Not Detected: 7 Tips To Fix The Problem

You’re not alone if you’re having trouble with your Jeep key fob not being detected. Many Jeep owners have experienced this issue, which can be pretty frustrating.

This can be caused by various issues, ranging from a dead battery to a broken key fob to a faulty receiver. Luckily, some simple solutions can help you quickly get back on the road.

In this blog post, I’ll discuss 8 reasons why your Jeep key fob might not be detected and a guide to fixing each issue.

I’ve done a lot of research on this topic, and following my advice will help you get your Jeep back up and running.

So if you’re having trouble with your Jeep key fob, keep reading to get the necessary solutions.

Why is the Jeep Key Fob not Detected? Top 8 Reasons

Following our 8 reasons can help you identify and resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. So that you can save time and money. Additionally, it can help you avoid potential safety risks associated with an improperly functioning key fob.

1) Dead key fob battery

Many Jeep owners or drivers face this issue because the key fob battery is drained. This can be due to a few reasons: leaving the key fob in a hot car or leaving the key fob inside your Jeep when it’s cold outside.

When the key fob’s battery is dead or weak, the Jeep will not be able to detect it and will not start.

2) Loose connection

Due to the loose connection of the key fob to the Jeep, it’s possible for the Jeep not to detect it. This could be due to a dirty or corroded connection on the part of the key fob.

3) Use of a wrong fob key

Sometimes your Jeep key fob cannot detect due to using the wrong fob key. Because the Jeep key fob communicates with the Jeep through an RFID chip.

So, if you use a key fob that is not made for the Jeep/car, the car won’t be able to read the chip and recognize the fob.

4) Programming issue

The programming issue is the most common reason why the Jeep key fob does not detect. If the programming module is damaged or if there is a malfunction in the keyless entry system, then the device will not be able to communicate with your Jeep.

5) Jeep/Car battery worn out

The key fob is a small device used to start the Jeep. If the car battery is worn out, the key fob won’t be able to detect it.

A few things can cause the car battery to wear out. One of them is if you don’t use your Jeep regularly. Your Jeep battery won’t last as long if you just drive it around town.

Another thing that can cause the Jeep battery to wear out has many electronics in your Jeep. If you have a lot of USB ports or chargers in your Jeep, those ports can drain your battery over time. In this case, you’ll need to get a new car battery.

6) Faulty door lock

The most common reason that the only cause of not detecting Jeep key fob is the faulty door lock. If the door lock is not working properly, the Jeep key fob won’t be able to detect it.

A few things can cause the door lock not to work properly.

Some of them is if there is a broken wire in the system, if there is water damage to the system, or if there is a malfunction with the keyless entry system.

If you are experiencing this problem and don’t know what to do, you’ll need to have your car mechanic look at it. They will be able to diagnose the issue and fix it.

7) Radio interference

If there is radio interference in the area, the Jeep key fob will not be able to detect it. This can happen if there is much metal in the area, much electrical equipment, or any radio towers nearby.

8) Broken wire in a key fob

Sometimes your Jeep key fob may not work because there’s a broken wire in the key fob. If this is the case, you’ll need to have a mechanic replace the whole key fob.

How to Fix Your Jeep Key Fob that is Not Detected?

The Jeep key fob not being detected can mean a few different things. The most common is that the battery in your Jeep key fob has died so it won’t work.

If you’ve tried charging the battery, but the fob still isn’t working, there’s a good chance that your Jeep key fob receiver has been damaged and needs to be replaced.

If you’ve never had trouble with your Jeep key fob before and it just stopped working suddenly, there’s a good chance that someone stole your Jeep and replaced the battery with their own.

In any case, if you’re having trouble with your Jeep key fob not detecting, here are 7 tips to help fix the problem:

(1) Improve the Conductivity of the Contacts

You can do a few things to troubleshoot and fix the problem. One common issue is that the contacts in the key fob may be dirty or have lost their conductivity.

Here are five tips to improve the conductivity of the contacts:

  • Clean the contacts with a microfiber cloth and rubbing alcohol.
  • Replace any broken or corroded contacts.
  • Check for any electrical damage to the key fob’s circuitry, which could cause poor conductivity.
  • Check for any debris trapped between the contacts and the case of the key fob. Remove any obstructions with small needle-nose pliers, if necessary.
  • Try repairing the key fob of your vehicle. If the key fob still doesn’t work, it may be necessary to replace the receiver.

(2) Replace the Battery

To solve the Jeep key fob not detected issue, you can replace the battery of the key fob. If your key fob isn’t detecting even after following the tips above, it may be that the battery is just not working anymore.

Here are five steps to replace the battery in a Jeep:

  • Disconnect the key fob from the vehicle’s electrical system.
  • Remove the four screws that hold down the cover of the key fob receiver.
  • Remove the cover of the receiver and remove the battery.
  • Replace with new battery and reinstall cover and screws.
  • Connect the electrical system and test the key fob function.

(3) Faulty Antenna

If your Jeep key fob is not detected even after changing the battery, it could be due to a faulty antenna. The antenna might be misaligned or damaged, causing the signal to not be detected.

You should check the connections and make sure that the antenna is properly connected and in good condition.

If it is not, then you might need to replace the antenna. If this doesn’t work, it might be time to take your vehicle to a mechanic for further inspection.

(4) Replace the Fuse

If the key fob still doesn’t work, replacing the entire fuse box may be necessary. You can also try to reset the key fob by pressing and holding down the “Lock” button for 10 seconds.

(5) Reprogram Your Key Fob

You can try reprogramming the key fob if it seems to be incompatible with the Jeep’s security system. Try to run your key fob with the proper program. If it fails, you can take your Jeep to a mechanic for repairs.

(6) Unblock Signal

Ensure nothing is blocking the signal from reaching your Jeep key fob. If there are huge metal objects in the area, like a car, they can block the signal from reaching your Jeep key fob. Remove metal objects that may be blocking the signal and try again.

(7) Try changing out your Jeep key fob receiver

If you think that there’s something wrong with the receiver of your Jeep key fob, like it’s been damaged, you can try replacing it yourself. Just be sure to follow instructions carefully so don’t damage your Jeep.

Read 15 Jeep Wrangler Key Fob Tricks You Will Love

How to Start a Jeep Cherokee When the Key Fob is Not Detected?

If your Jeep Cherokee key fob doesn’t seem to be working, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem.

First, check to see if the battery is fully charged. If it’s not, you’ll need to charge your Jeep key fob before trying to start the vehicle.

Next, ensure that you’re properly inserting the key into the ignition. If you’re having trouble starting your Jeep Cherokee with the key fob, try replacing it with a new one.

If those steps don’t work, you may have to take your Jeep Cherokee to a mechanic for repair or replacement.

How Do I Program My Jeep Key Fob?

Jeep vehicles come with keyless entry remotes that can be programmed to lock and unlock the doors. The programming process is simple, but it must be done correctly to work properly.

Here are the steps to programming a Jeep key fob:

  • Sit in the driver’s seat and close all doors.
  • Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “On” position, but don’t start the engine.
  • Press and release the “Lock” button on the key fob.
  • Within 5 seconds, press and hold down the “Unlock” button for at least two seconds.
  • Release both buttons simultaneously, then turn off the ignition and remove the key from it.
  • The doors should now be locked and unlocked with the key fob. If they are not, repeat the steps above.

How To Program a Jeep Key for Jeep Wrangler 2013

Conclusion

A Jeep key fob not detected is a common problem that you fix by following these 7 tips. By troubleshooting the issue and taking the necessary steps, you should be able to get your key fob working properly again in no time.

So try to apply these steps the next time you face this problem.

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Hi, I am Ashley Kiser a professional automotive blogger. I have worked in the automotive industry for over 5 years. I am passionate about cars and love sharing my knowledge with others. I hope this blog will help you make the best decisions when it comes to your car.

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