How to Change Jeep Key Fob Battery

Maintaining the functionality of your Jeep key fob is essential for the convenience and security of your vehicle.

Over time, the battery in your key fob may weaken or die, necessitating a replacement to ensure it continues to operate efficiently.

Published: February 29, 2024.

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First Signs of Weak Jeep Key Fob Battery

Recognizing the early signs of a weakening key fob battery can save you from potential inconvenience. Here are a few indicators to watch for:

  • Decreased Range: If you notice that you have to be closer to your Jeep than usual to lock, unlock, or start it, your key fob battery might be dying.
  • Inconsistent Operation: When the key fob starts to function intermittently, requiring multiple presses to unlock doors or start the engine, it's often a sign of a low battery.
  • Warning Messages: Some Jeep models will display a warning message on the dashboard indicating that the key fob battery is low.
  • No Operation: If the key fob stops working entirely, the battery may be completely dead, or there could be another issue with the fob itself.

Most Common Key Fob Batteries

Jeep key fobs typically use CR2032 or CR2025 lithium coin batteries. These are widely available at electronics stores, online, or at automotive parts retailers.

Before purchasing a new battery, it's important to check your Jeep's owner's manual or remove the current battery to verify the correct type.

How to Replace Your Jeep Key Fob Battery

Replacing the battery in your Jeep key fob is a straightforward process that you can do at home with minimal tools. Follow these steps:

1. Gather Your Materials: You'll need a small flathead screwdriver or a key fob pry tool, and a new CR2032 or CR2025 battery, depending on your model.

2. Open the Key Fob: Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the seam of the key fob. Gently twist the tool to pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Some models may have a small notch specifically designed for this purpose.

3. Remove the Old Battery: Once the key fob is open, identify the battery and gently pry it out. Take note of the battery's orientation before removal to ensure the new battery is installed correctly.

4. Install the New Battery: Place the new battery into the key fob, ensuring it's oriented the same way as the old battery. Press down firmly to ensure it's seated properly.

5. Reassemble the Key Fob: Align the two halves of the key fob and press them together until they snap into place. Make sure the seam is closed tightly to avoid any damage or moisture entering the fob.

6. Test the Key Fob: Once reassembled, test the key fob to ensure it's functioning correctly by locking and unlocking your Jeep.

Additional Tips

  • Handle Batteries with Care: When handling the new battery, try to avoid touching the flat surfaces with your fingers, as oils and dirt can affect battery performance.
  • Check for Damage: While the key fob is open, it's a good opportunity to check for any visible damage or corrosion that could affect functionality.
  • Dispose of Old Batteries Properly: Lithium batteries should be recycled or disposed of according to local regulations.

Popular Jeep Models and Their Key Fob Batteries

Jeep vehicles, known for their rugged durability and off-road capability, come equipped with key fobs that provide owners with a range of convenient features, including remote locking and unlocking, panic alarms, and, in some models, remote start functionality.

Over time, the battery in your Jeep key fob may require replacement to ensure it continues to operate efficiently.

Jeep Wrangler

  • Models: Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2018), Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-present)
  • Key Fob Type: The Jeep Wrangler JK models typically use a key fob with the battery type CR2032. The newer JL models also use a CR2032 battery for their key fobs. These are 3-volt lithium coin cell batteries.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

  • Models: Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 (2011-present)
  • Key Fob Type: Most Grand Cherokee WK2 models use a CR2032 battery for their key fobs. This includes variations such as the standard key fob and the keyless enter-n-go fob.

Jeep Cherokee

  • Models: Jeep Cherokee KL (2014-present)
  • Key Fob Type: The Cherokee KL uses a CR2032 battery in its key fob, supporting features like remote start, lock, unlock, and a panic button.

Jeep Compass

  • Models: Jeep Compass MP/552 (2017-present)
  • Key Fob Type: The latest generation of the Jeep Compass uses a CR2032 battery for its remote keyless entry system.

Jeep Renegade

  • Models: Jeep Renegade BU (2015-present)
  • Key Fob Type: The Renegade's key fob requires a CR2032 battery, which powers its remote lock and unlock functionality, among other features.

Jeep Gladiator

  • Models: Jeep Gladiator JT (2020-present)
  • Key Fob Type: The Gladiator, Jeep's pickup truck offering, uses a CR2032 battery in its key fob to facilitate remote functions.

Tips for Battery Replacement

  • Check Your Owner’s Manual: Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific information about the key fob battery type and replacement procedures.
  • Replacement Frequency: It's recommended to replace the battery every 3 to 4 years, depending on usage.
  • Handle with Care: When replacing the battery, handle the new battery as little as possible to avoid transferring oils from your skin, which can corrode the contacts.
  • Proper Disposal: Dispose of the old battery properly, as lithium coin batteries can be harmful to the environment if not recycled or disposed of correctly.

Maintaining the functionality of your Jeep key fob is essential for the convenience and security of your vehicle. Knowing the specific battery type your key fob requires ensures that you can quickly and efficiently replace it when necessary.

While the CR2032 battery is the most common across several Jeep models, always verify the battery type against your owner's manual or by inspecting the existing battery in your key fob.

Also, regular replacement of the key fob battery will help ensure that you can continue to enjoy the convenience features offered by your Jeep without interruption.

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Do You Have To Reprogram the Jeep Key Fob After the Battery Replacement

Typically, you do not need to reprogram a Jeep key fob after replacing its battery. The key fob's programming should remain intact during the battery change, as the device is designed to retain its settings without a continuous power source. Once you replace the battery, the key fob should work as usual without the need for reprogramming.

However, if you find that your key fob is not working correctly after the battery change, there could be a few reasons:

  • The new battery might be dead or inserted incorrectly. Double-check the battery's orientation and ensure it's fully seated in the battery compartment.
  • The key fob could have been damaged during the battery replacement process or might have an existing issue that was not related to the battery.

If you've checked these issues and the key fob still doesn't work, consulting the vehicle's manual for troubleshooting tips or contacting a Jeep dealer or a professional locksmith for assistance might be necessary. In very rare cases, a key fob might lose its programming, but this is uncommon and usually requires professional support to resolve.

How to Start Jeep With Dead Key Fob Battery?

Starting a Jeep with a dead key fob battery can be a stressful experience, especially if you're unaware of the alternative methods available to get your vehicle up and running.

Fortunately, Jeep has incorporated several features into their vehicles to ensure that a dead key fob battery doesn't leave you stranded. Here’s how you can start your Jeep even when the key fob battery has run out:

For Push-Button Start Models

  • Remove the Emergency Key: First, remove the emergency key blade from the key fob. There’s usually a small latch or button on the fob that releases the key.
  • Unlock the Door Manually: Use the emergency key to manually unlock the driver’s door. While newer Jeep models are designed with convenience in mind, they still retain this traditional method of entry as a failsafe.
  • Hold the Key Fob to the Start Button: Once inside, hold the key fob directly against the push-button start or the designated backup area. In many Jeep models, placing the key fob close to the button allows the vehicle to detect the key fob’s RFID chip, bypassing the need for a functional battery. The exact location where you should hold the key fob can vary, so refer to your owner's manual for model-specific information.
  • Press the Brake and Start Button: While holding the key fob close to the start button, press the brake pedal and then press the start button. This should start your Jeep’s engine.

For Models with a Key Ignition

  • Remove the Emergency Key: Just like with push-button start models, remove the emergency key from the key fob.
  • Unlock the Door Manually: Use the emergency key to unlock the door manually.
  • Insert the Key into the Ignition: Instead of a push-button start, insert the emergency key directly into the ignition and turn it to start your Jeep in the traditional manner.

Tips for Preventing Future Issues

  • Replace the Key Fob Battery Regularly: To avoid getting stranded with a dead key fob battery, consider replacing it every 3 to 4 years, or as soon as you notice any decrease in performance.
  • Carry a Spare Battery: Keeping a spare key fob battery in your glove compartment or wallet can save you in a pinch.
  • Familiarize Yourself with Your Jeep’s Features: Knowing your Jeep’s specific features and how to access them can save time and stress. Consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions on emergency procedures.

A dead key fob battery can be inconvenient, but it doesn't have to immobilize your Jeep. If unsure about exact procedures, always consult your Jeep’s owner's manual for the most accurate and specific instructions regarding your vehicle’s features and capabilities. And whatever you do, stay safe...