Experiencing a “Key Fob Not Detected” message in your 2015 Dodge Journey can be frustrating and prevent you from starting your vehicle. This issue can arise unexpectedly, leaving you stranded and searching for solutions. If you’re facing this problem, you’re not alone. Many Dodge Journey owners have encountered similar situations, and fortunately, there are steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.
One of the first things to consider when your 2015 Dodge Journey displays the “Key Fob Not Detected” message is the key fob battery itself. A low battery is a common culprit. While you might have recently replaced the battery, it’s worth double-checking. Ensure you’ve installed the correct type of battery and that it’s properly seated in the key fob. Sometimes, even new batteries can be faulty, so testing with another new battery or a battery tester can be a quick way to rule this out.
Beyond the key fob battery, the car battery in your Dodge Journey could also be contributing to the problem. Modern vehicles rely heavily on robust electrical systems, and a weak or dying car battery can cause a variety of electronic malfunctions, including issues with key fob detection. If your car battery is old or showing signs of weakness, such as slow cranking or dimming lights, consider having it tested or replaced. A jump start might temporarily resolve the issue, as it provides a surge of power, but it’s not a long-term fix if the underlying problem is a failing car battery.
Another potential cause for a “Key Fob Not Detected” message is interference or issues with the key fob’s signal transmission or the vehicle’s receiver. Sometimes, other electronic devices or radio frequencies can interfere with the key fob signal. Try starting your Dodge Journey in a different location, away from potential sources of interference like radio towers or strong electronic devices. If you have a spare key fob, try using it to see if the issue persists. If the spare key fob works, the problem might be with the original key fob itself.
In more complex cases, the “Key Fob Not Detected” message could indicate a problem with the vehicle’s Remote Frequency Hub (RF Hub) or the immobilizer system. The RF Hub is responsible for receiving the signal from your key fob, and if it’s malfunctioning, it may not recognize your key. The immobilizer system is an anti-theft system that prevents the car from starting without the correct key signal. Issues within these systems often require professional diagnosis and repair.
If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting steps like checking both key fob and car batteries and attempting to start the vehicle in different locations, and the problem persists, it’s advisable to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic or Dodge dealership technician can use specialized tools to diagnose the underlying issue. They can check for fault codes in the vehicle’s computer system, test the RF Hub and immobilizer system, and determine if the problem lies with the key fob, the vehicle’s electronics, or another component. Attempting DIY fixes on complex electronic systems can sometimes worsen the problem, so professional diagnosis is often the most efficient and effective way to resolve a persistent “Key Fob Not Detected” issue in your 2015 Dodge Journey.
