A question arose regarding the functionality of the 2011 Dodge Charger Key Fob and its interaction with the vehicle’s operation. Specifically, the discussion centers around whether it’s possible to drive a 2011 Dodge Charger after starting the engine and then removing the key fob from the vehicle. This inquiry is rooted in a user experience that suggests a scenario where a 2011 Charger could be driven even after the key fob was no longer inside the car.
To investigate this, a test was conducted using a similar Chrysler product, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, to draw a comparison. The experiment with the Grand Cherokee revealed that once the vehicle is started and the key fob is removed, a “keys have left vehicle” message appears, and crucially, the car cannot be put into gear. Attempting to press the brake pedal and start button again in this situation results in the engine turning off. This test indicates that, at least for the Grand Cherokee, a safety mechanism is in place to prevent driving without the key fob present.
This observation leads to the question of whether the 2011 Dodge Charger should behave in the same manner, considering they likely utilize similar keyless ignition systems. It’s hypothesized that both vehicles, being Chrysler products of similar eras, should incorporate comparable technology to prevent unauthorized driving or accidental drive-offs without the key fob proximity. The different ranges of the key fob’s wireless functions are also highlighted. While the remote buttons might function from a distance of 20-50 feet, keyless entry typically requires physical contact with the door handle or pressing a button on the handle. Keyless ignition, however, appears to have the most limited range, seemingly needing the key fob to be within approximately 24 inches of the WIN module located behind the start button.
Therefore, based on the Grand Cherokee test, the original scenario of a 2011 Dodge Charger being driven without the key fob inside seems unlikely under normal circumstances. It prompts further investigation and testing specifically with a 2011 Dodge Charger to confirm if its behavior aligns with the Grand Cherokee or if there are discrepancies in the keyless system implementation between these models. Owners of 2011 Dodge Chargers are encouraged to test this scenario and share their findings to clarify the actual functionality of the key fob system in this specific vehicle.
