Losing or damaging your car key fob can be a real headache, especially when it comes to modern vehicles like the 2019 Jeep Cherokee. If you’re searching for a replacement or need to program a new key fob for your Cherokee, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob Programming, ensuring you get back on the road quickly and safely.
Understanding the intricacies of key fob programming is essential for 2019 Jeep Cherokee owners. Unlike older vehicles, modern cars like the Cherokee have sophisticated security systems that require electronic key fobs to communicate with the vehicle. This means simply getting a new key cut won’t be enough; it needs to be programmed to work with your car’s specific system.
Whether you’ve purchased a new key fob online, from a dealership, or a locksmith, programming is a necessary step. Let’s delve into the details of programming your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob and explore your options.
Why Does Your 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob Need Programming?
Modern key fobs are more than just keys; they are essentially sophisticated transmitters that communicate wirelessly with your vehicle’s computer. This communication is crucial for features like keyless entry, remote start (if equipped), and the vehicle’s immobilizer system, which prevents theft.
For security reasons, a new, unprogrammed key fob is essentially useless to your 2019 Jeep Cherokee. The vehicle’s computer needs to recognize and authenticate the unique electronic signature of your key fob before it will allow the car to start or respond to commands like locking and unlocking doors. This is why “2019 jeep cherokee key fob programming” is a critical step.
Options for 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob Programming
When it comes to programming your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob, you generally have two main options:
1. Dealership Programming
Your local Jeep dealership is a reliable option for key fob programming. Dealerships have specialized equipment and factory-trained technicians who are experts in working with Jeep vehicles.
Pros:
- Expertise: Dealership technicians are specifically trained to work on Jeep vehicles and their key fob systems.
- Genuine Parts: They can provide genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) key fobs, ensuring compatibility and quality.
- Warranty: Work done at a dealership often comes with a warranty.
Cons:
- Cost: Dealerships are typically the most expensive option for key fob programming.
- Convenience: You’ll need to schedule an appointment and take your vehicle to the dealership.
2. Automotive Locksmith Programming
A qualified automotive locksmith is another excellent option for 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob programming. Many locksmiths specialize in car key and remote services and can often provide a more convenient and cost-effective solution compared to dealerships.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Locksmiths generally offer more competitive pricing than dealerships.
- Convenience: Many locksmiths offer mobile services and can come to your location, saving you the hassle of towing your vehicle or arranging transportation.
- Specialized Service: Automotive locksmiths are experts in key and remote programming and often have extensive knowledge of various vehicle makes and models, including Jeep.
Cons:
- Finding a Qualified Locksmith: It’s important to choose a reputable locksmith with experience in programming modern car key fobs. Look for locksmiths with good reviews and certifications.
Understanding the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob
To ensure you get the correct replacement and programming, it’s helpful to understand the specifics of your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob.
Key Features of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob:
- FCC ID: GQ4-53T, GQ453T (This ID is crucial for ensuring you get the correct compatible fob).
- Part Numbers: Current Part Number: 68508731 , 68508731AA. Older Part Numbers: 68105081, 68105081AG, 68105081AB, 68105081AC, 68105081AD, 68105081AE, 68105081AF. (These numbers can help verify compatibility).
- Frequency: 433 MHz (The operating frequency of the remote).
- Battery: CR2032 (Standard coin cell battery).
- Buttons: Lock, Unlock, Panic Alarm (Standard three-button layout).
- Emergency Key: Includes an uncut emergency insert key (Y171P, BY171P, 68043590AC), which needs to be cut to match your vehicle’s door lock.
Vehicle Compatibility:
This key fob is designed for 2019 Jeep Cherokee models and is also compatible with a range of Cherokee trims from 2014 to 2021, including:
- Altitude
- High Altitude
- Latitude
- Latitude Plus
- Limited
- Overland
- Trailhawk
- Trailhawk Elite
- Upland
- Sport
It’s designed for vehicles with a turn-the-key ignition and standard keyless entry system.
Can You Program a 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob Yourself?
While some older vehicle models offer on-board programming procedures that allow you to program key fobs yourself, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee does not support on-board programming for key fobs.
Programming for this vehicle requires specialized diagnostic equipment that is typically only available to dealerships and professional automotive locksmiths. This equipment is necessary to communicate with your car’s computer system and securely program the new key fob.
Therefore, for “2019 jeep cherokee key fob programming,” professional assistance from a dealer or locksmith is required.
What to Expect During the Programming Process
Whether you choose a dealership or a locksmith, the programming process will generally involve these steps:
- Verification: The technician will verify that the key fob is compatible with your 2019 Jeep Cherokee (checking FCC ID and part numbers).
- Diagnostic Connection: They will connect specialized diagnostic equipment to your vehicle’s OBD-II port (usually located under the dashboard).
- Security Access: The equipment will communicate with your vehicle’s computer to access the key programming module. This often involves security protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
- Key Fob Programming: Following the manufacturer’s procedures, the technician will program the new key fob to your vehicle. This usually involves pressing buttons on the key fob in a specific sequence while the diagnostic tool communicates with the car.
- Testing: After programming, the technician will test all the key fob functions (lock, unlock, panic, remote start if applicable) to ensure it’s working correctly.
- Emergency Key Cutting: If you have a new emergency insert key, the locksmith or dealer can also cut it to match your vehicle’s ignition or door lock.
Getting a Replacement 2019 Jeep Cherokee Key Fob
If you need to purchase a replacement key fob, you have several options:
- Jeep Dealership: Guaranteed to be OEM and compatible, but typically the most expensive.
- Online Retailers: Sites like Amazon or eBay offer aftermarket and OEM key fobs at varying prices. Ensure you verify compatibility (FCC ID, part numbers) before purchasing.
- Automotive Locksmiths: Many locksmiths sell key fobs and can program them on-site.
Important Considerations When Purchasing a Replacement:
- FCC ID and Part Numbers: Always match the FCC ID (GQ4-53T) and ideally one of the part numbers listed to ensure compatibility with your 2019 Jeep Cherokee.
- New vs. Used: Used key fobs can sometimes be reprogrammed, but it’s generally recommended to purchase a new, unused key fob for reliability. (Note: As mentioned in the original product description, used remotes can be reusable after an unlocking/re-flashing service, primarily for locksmiths and dealers).
- Emergency Key: Ensure the replacement comes with an emergency insert key, or purchase one separately if needed.
Conclusion
Dealing with a lost or damaged key fob for your 2019 Jeep Cherokee doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By understanding the need for professional “2019 jeep cherokee key fob programming” and exploring your options with dealerships or qualified automotive locksmiths, you can efficiently get a replacement programmed and regain full functionality of your vehicle’s keyless entry system. Remember to verify compatibility by checking FCC IDs and part numbers when purchasing a replacement key fob to ensure a smooth programming process. Whether you choose the dealership or a locksmith, professional programming is essential to get you back on the road with a fully functional and secure key fob for your 2019 Jeep Cherokee.
