Discovering you need a replacement key fob for your 2016 Jeep Cherokee can be frustrating, especially when faced with dealership prices that often exceed $300 for a fob and programming. Fortunately, if you’re already equipped with the AlfaOBD mobile app and a compatible OBD2 adapter (like OBDLink MX+ or vLinker MC+), you have the tools to program a new key fob yourself, saving significantly compared to dealer or locksmith costs. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you through the process. We extend our gratitude to the JeepCherokeeClub.com forum members, particularly @erikrj, for their shared experiences and insights in key fob replacement.
STEP 1: Selecting the Correct Blank Key Fob
Choosing the right blank key fob is crucial. Jeep Cherokee key fobs are unique and not interchangeable with those of other FCA models. Many third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress incorrectly list Grand Cherokee (WK2) and RAM 1500 (DT/DS) fobs as compatible with the Cherokee KL, which is not the case.
To ensure compatibility, you need to identify whether your Cherokee has a Push-To-Start (keyless) ignition or a key slot ignition switch. Order the part number accordingly:
For KEYLESS/Push-To-Start ignition fobs:
- Model: GQ4-54T
- Frequency: 433Mhz
For KEY-IN-IGNITION SLOT fobs:
- Model: GQ4-53T
- Frequency: 433Mhz
Crucially, verify that the fob you purchase specifies the transponder chip as:
- Transponder Chip: HITAG AES, CHIP 4A / PCF7961M chip
It is vital that the product description of the FOB explicitly mentions “HITAG”, “AES”, “4A”, or “PCF7961M”. If these terms are absent, the fob is unlikely to work with your 2016 Jeep Cherokee. Avoid purchasing any blank FOB that doesn’t include these chip specifications.
Furthermore, ensure the replacement fob has the same number of buttons as your original. If your current fob includes features like remote start or a power liftgate, the new fob must also have these corresponding buttons (3 or 4-button model).
Example of a Compatible FOB: This listing correctly specifies the part number as “GQ4-53T” or “GQ4-54T”, a frequency of 433Mhz, and importantly, confirms the chip as a HITAG AES 4A / PCF7961M. These fobs are compatible with the Cherokee KL.
Example of an Incompatible FOB: While this fob listing may mention “Cherokee” as compatible, it’s misleading. This model is designed for RAM 1500/2500 vehicles and will not program to a Cherokee. Although it lists the part number “GQ4-53T”, it fails to specify the CHIP as a HITAG AES 4A / PCF7961M. Do not purchase this fob for your 2016 Jeep Cherokee. The same caution applies to listings that claim compatibility with the Grand Cherokee, as it’s often confused with the standard Cherokee, but they use different key fobs.
STEP 2: Testing the Unprogrammed Key Fob
Once you receive your new blank key fob, it’s essential to test it to confirm it’s the correct type before programming. Ensure no other existing key fobs are inside or near the vehicle during this test.
- With the new, unprogrammed fob, insert it into the key slot (for key-type models) or have it with you inside the vehicle (for keyless models) with the driver’s door open. Listen for the open-door chimes. Do you hear them?
- Next, turn the key to the ACC (Accessory) position or press the Push To Start button to ACC. Check the EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center). Does it display “Key In Ignition”?
If you hear the door chimes and the EVIC shows “Key In Ignition”, your 2016 Jeep Cherokee recognizes the blank fob as the correct type, and you can proceed with programming. However, if you don’t hear the chimes, and the EVIC remains dark, your Cherokee does not recognize the fob. This could be due to an incorrect frequency, chip type, unsupported encryption, or a combination of these issues. In this case, the fob cannot be programmed to your vehicle. STOP and order a replacement fob that meets the correct specifications.
STEP 3: Programming Your 2016 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob
Now that you’ve verified you have the correct blank key fob, you can proceed with programming it to your 2016 Jeep Cherokee using AlfaOBD.
First, plug your OBD2 adapter into your Cherokee’s OBD2 port. With the ignition in the RUN position (key turned to RUN or Push To Start button pressed to RUN, but engine OFF), connect to your vehicle using the AlfaOBD app.
Follow these steps within AlfaOBD:
-
Select the “Radio Frequency HUB” module within AlfaOBD.
-
Connect to the Radio Frequency HUB (RFH) module.
-
Choose “READ SYSTEM STATUS”.
-
Scroll down to find the line labeled “Number of Key Fobs Programmed”. Confirm that the number is 7 or less. A 2016 Jeep Cherokee can have a maximum of 8 key fobs programmed at any time. If all 8 slots are filled, you’ll need to erase existing keys before adding new ones, which is beyond the scope of this guide. Assuming you have fewer than 8 programmed fobs, proceed to the next step.
-
Retrieve the PIN number. In the Radio Frequency HUB (RFH) module, navigate to the dropdown menu and find the option to read the PIN number. Each Jeep Cherokee has a unique PIN stored in the RFH, which is necessary for key fob programming. Note down this PIN number.
-
Initiate Key Fob Programming. Depending on your ignition type:
- [5a] For key-in-ignition slot fobs (Baseline models): Select “Program Ignition FOBIKs (Baseline)”.
- [5b] For Push To Start keyless fobs (Highline models): Select “Program Ignition FOBIKs (Highline)”.
In the prompt that appears, enter the PIN number you recorded in step 5, and then select “START” to begin the programming sequence. Your new key fob will now be programmed wirelessly to your 2016 Jeep Cherokee.
-
Verify Successful Programming. Once the programming process is complete, AlfaOBD should display a “Successful” message. To confirm, return to the RFH System Status menu and check the “Number of Key Fobs Programmed”. The count should have increased by one.
- Note: If the count hasn’t updated immediately, open and close the car door to simulate entry/exit, wait about 20 seconds, and re-check the number of programmed fobs. Sometimes, there can be a slight delay in the value updating within AlfaOBD.
-
(Optional) Cutting the Physical Emergency Key. Each key fob includes a slot at the bottom for a physical key. This key is designed to unlock the driver’s side door manually if the car battery or fob battery is dead. It does not play any role in starting the vehicle as there is no physical ignition slot on the dashboard.
This physical key is a standard double-sided automotive key and is not laser-cut. You can have it cut at most locksmiths or hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowes by providing one of your existing working keys as a template. If you have lost all physical keys, you will need to visit a Jeep dealer to obtain the original key code associated with your vehicle from the factory. A locksmith can then use this code to create a duplicate physical key.
Congratulations! You have successfully programmed a new key fob for your 2016 Jeep Cherokee. Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy the savings you’ve made by taking the DIY route for your key fob programming!
Search Terms: Jeep Cherokee key fob, key fob programming, FOBIK, FOB, replacement key fob, AlfaOBD, DIY key fob programming.
