Experiencing problems with your 2019 Ram 1500 key fob can be frustrating. If you’re suddenly finding your passive entry system isn’t working or your vehicle is struggling to detect your key fob, a failing key fob battery is often the first and easiest thing to check. Let’s explore some common symptoms and troubleshooting steps related to your 2019 Ram 1500 Key Fob Battery.
Common Symptoms of a Low 2019 Ram 1500 Key Fob Battery
Just like any battery, the one in your 2019 Ram 1500 key fob will weaken over time. Here are some telltale signs that your key fob battery might be the culprit:
- Passive Entry Failure: Your doors may no longer unlock automatically when you approach the vehicle. You might find that touching the door handle sensor yields no response.
- “Key Fob Not Present” Message: Your dashboard display may show a “Key Fob Not Present” message, even when the key fob is inside the vehicle. You might need to physically press the key fob against the start button to start your Ram 1500.
- Inconsistent Performance: You might notice intermittent issues where the key fob works sometimes but not others. This can be especially noticeable in cold weather, which can further reduce battery performance.
- Reduced Range: You may need to be much closer to your vehicle than usual for the key fob to lock or unlock the doors or activate remote start.
- Other Key Fob Functions Still Working: Interestingly, some functions like remote start or panic button might still work even with a weak battery because they sometimes require less power than passive entry or key detection.
Troubleshooting Steps for Your 2019 Ram 1500 Key Fob
Before assuming a more complex issue, try these simple troubleshooting steps related to your 2019 Ram 1500 key fob battery:
- Check the Basics: Ensure it’s actually your key fob causing the issue by testing both key fobs if you have a spare. If both fobs exhibit the same problems, it strengthens the likelihood of a battery issue or a vehicle-related problem.
- Try a Fresh Battery: The most straightforward step is to replace the battery in your 2019 Ram 1500 key fob. These fobs typically use a CR2032 coin cell battery, which is readily available at most drugstores or online. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to open your key fob and replace the battery.
- Rule Out Other Simple Issues: While focusing on the battery, quickly check other basic things that could mimic key fob problems:
- Vehicle Battery: Although less likely to directly cause key fob issues, a very weak vehicle battery can sometimes lead to unusual electronic behavior. Ensure your Ram 1500 battery is healthy.
- Obstructions: Make sure there’s nothing physically obstructing the key fob’s signal, although this is rarely the cause of sudden passive entry failure.
When to Suspect More Than Just the Key Fob Battery
If replacing the battery in your 2019 Ram 1500 key fob doesn’t resolve the issue, or if you notice other electrical problems with your vehicle, then the problem might be more complex. Consider these possibilities:
- RF Hub Issues: The Radio Frequency Hub in your Ram 1500 is responsible for receiving signals from your key fob. Moisture or electrical problems with the RF Hub can cause key fob malfunctions.
- Antenna Problems: The antenna that receives the key fob signal could be damaged or disconnected.
- Software Glitches: While less common, software issues in your vehicle’s computer system could potentially affect key fob functionality.
If simple troubleshooting steps don’t work, and especially if you’ve experienced recent heavy rain or suspect water intrusion as mentioned in the original post, it’s advisable to have your 2019 Ram 1500 diagnosed by a qualified mechanic or Ram dealership. They can properly diagnose the root cause of the key fob issues and ensure all systems are functioning correctly. Don’t let key fob problems leave you stranded – address them promptly!
