Turning on ignition with actual key

[Jmscrttndn]

Hello. I bought a used JL and only got one key fob with it. I am wondering that if I copy just the key portion, and not the electronic fob, can I turn on and drive the jeep using just the key? My reasoning is that I don’t want to spend the $$$ to get a new fob as a backup, but I also don’t want to be left stranded if I lose my one and only fob, so a cheaper alternative as a back-up would be to have a second key made (and only the metal key portion, not the electronic portion) to use in the event I lose my only fob.

I have read online that you may be able to pop out the ignition push button and use the physical key behind it... but couldn’t find anything official saying this is possible. Thanks in advance!

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[VooDoo1]

Unfortunately just using the metal key will not work. There is no key slot behind the magic button. A few years back, when push button start was a new thing, Honda put a key slot behind the button in case the fob battery died, you could still start the car. The Jeep will not start/run unless it has the electronic signal from the fob.

 

[AnebuR]

Unfortunately just using the metal key will not work. There is no key slot behind the magic button. A few years back, when push button start was a new thing, Honda put a key slot behind the button in case the fob battery died, you could still start the car. The Jeep will not start/run unless it has the electronic signal from the fob.

Which got me thinking...Is there any advance warning for when the battery in the fob is about to die? Imagine going out into the desert and getting stranded cause the fob ran out of juice!

 

[Jmscrttndn]

Which got me thinking...Is there any advance warning for when the battery in the fob is about to die? Imagine going out into the desert and getting stranded cause the fob ran out of juice!

Well, I have read two things related to your concern:
1. The car gives you a warning on the dash when the fob battery is low; and
2. You can start the car with a dead fob (doesn’t even need a battery in it)... you literally hold the dead fob up to the push start button and there is some sort of transmitter thing that will do the electronic handshake if held in very close proximity, allowing the car to start (basically a fail-safe if your fob dies).

 

[AnebuR]

Well, I have read two things related to your concern:
1. The car gives you a warning on the dash when the fob battery is low; and
2. You can start the car with a dead fob (doesn’t even need a battery in it)... you literally hold the dead fob up to the push start button and there is some sort of transmitter thing that will do the electronic handshake if held in very close proximity, allowing the car to start (basically a fail-safe if your fob dies).

Good to know!

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