Weird Keyfob Issue

[JeepJoe]

One of the keyfobs for my 2019 JL Moab is not really working. It started a few days ago where I noticed I couldn't remote start it anymore. Got inside, hit the button on the dash and it started successfully - no warning/errors. My first thought was maybe it was the battery.

Today, I finally got around to replacing the battery - same issue. I then walked over to the Jeep and noticed that when I hit the lock button, the doors sounded like they tried to lock but couldn't. Unlock button didn't do anything - made sense as the jeep was already unlocked. I continued my troubleshooting by getting inside the Jeep and locked it manually using the button on the door. I hit the unlock button on the keyfob - nothing. Then I hit the lock button on the keyfob and the Jeep unlocked. What? Did the same sequence again, same results.

The other thing I've noticed is the red light on the keyfob. When I press the unlock button, the light does not flash. When I press the lock button the light flashes 17 times. When I press the remote start button, the light flashes 16 times.

I have another keyfob and that one works just fine - no issues with any of the functions. I'm assuming the keyfob needs to be reprogrammed, but I figured I'd check in here first to see if anyone had any other thoughts.

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[rk911]

Since the other FOB works the first FOB may need to be re-prpgrammed.

 

[2019JLUS]

Based on the description you provided, it sounds like there's an issue with the programming or functionality of your keyfob rather than just a simple battery problem. Here are some steps you might consider to troubleshoot or resolve the issue:

1. Reprogramming the Keyfob:
   • Since you've already tried replacing the battery and the issue persists, reprogramming the keyfob might be necessary. Here's how you might do it:
     • Enter Programming Mode: Sit in the driver's seat with all doors closed, insert the key into the ignition, and turn it to the "ON" position (not starting the engine) four times within 8 seconds, ending in the "ON" position. The doors should lock and unlock to confirm you're in programming mode.
     • Programming: Within 10 seconds of entering programming mode, press and hold the "LOCK" and "UNLOCK" buttons on the keyfob simultaneously for at least 4 seconds, then release them. Press any button on the keyfob within 10 seconds to confirm programming. The doors should lock and unlock to confirm successful programming.
     • Exit Programming Mode: Turn the ignition to "OFF" to exit the mode.
2. Check for Interference:
   • Sometimes, electronic interference can affect keyfob functionality. Ensure there are no strong electronic devices or sources of interference near your Jeep when you're testing the keyfob.
3. Keyfob Button Functionality:
   • The behavior of the red light on your keyfob (flashing 17 times for lock, 16 times for remote start, and not at all for unlock) suggests there might be an issue with the internal circuitry or the buttons themselves. Inspect the buttons for any signs of wear or sticking. If they seem fine, the internal electronics might be faulty.
4. Compare with Working Keyfob:
   • Since you have another keyfob that works fine, compare the behavior of both. This might give you insight into whether it's a programming issue or a hardware issue with the malfunctioning keyfob.
5. Battery Contact Issue:
   • Even though you've replaced the battery, sometimes the issue can be with the battery contacts. Check if the contacts are clean and making good contact with the battery.
6. Dealer or Professional Service:
   • If reprogramming doesn't work or if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, visiting a Jeep dealership or a professional locksmith might be the best option. They can reprogram or diagnose if there's a deeper issue with the keyfob or the vehicle's receiver.
7. Check Vehicle's Receiver:
   • Although less common, there could be an issue with the vehicle's keyfob receiver. If the dealership or a professional can't fix the keyfob, they might check this.

Given your observations, reprogramming seems like the most straightforward solution since you've already ruled out a simple battery issue

 

[2nd 392]

Note- the dealer wanted both fobs to program at the same time after a lost one, so take both if you go to the dealer in case needed.

 

[zouch]

since one fob works and one doesn’t, that would seem to indicate a problem with the one fob, not the receiver.

any chance it’s gotten wet? or had a battery go rotten inside it?

have you tried cleaning the faulty fob with some contact cleaner?
i’d pull the battery out, give it a good spray-down with a plastic and rubber-friendly electronics cleaner and let it dry thoroughly.
it’s already not working; what have you got to lose?

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