It can be frustrating when your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob stops working. Often, the culprit is simply a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your key fob is a straightforward process that you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service. This guide will walk you through the steps to replace your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob battery and address a common issue owners face after replacement.
Many 2019 Jeep Cherokee owners find that after replacing their key fob battery, the fob may not immediately function as expected. You might insert a brand new battery, only to find the remote start, lock, and unlock buttons unresponsive. This can lead to unnecessary worry and a trip to the dealership, but often, the solution is simpler than you think.
To replace the battery in your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob, you will typically need a small flathead screwdriver and a CR2032 3V battery. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Locate the notch: On the back of your key fob, you’ll find a small notch.
- Open the fob: Insert the flathead screwdriver into the notch and gently twist to pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
- Remove the old battery: Once open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) before carefully removing it. You can often use the tip of the screwdriver to gently nudge the battery out.
- Insert the new battery: Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring it is placed in the correct orientation as the old one.
- Reassemble the fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together until they are securely closed.
Alt text: Close-up of a Jeep Cherokee key fob, highlighting the notch for opening the casing.
Now, even after installing a fresh battery, you might encounter a situation where your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob still doesn’t seem to work. You might try pressing the buttons, but nothing happens. Before assuming there’s a more significant problem, try this simple trick:
The “Start Button” Solution:
As experienced by other Jeep owners, including those with the 2019 Cherokee, the key fob might require a reset or reactivation after battery replacement. The solution is often surprisingly simple:
- Enter your Jeep Cherokee: Get into your vehicle with the key fob.
- Start the vehicle using the fob: Instead of using the remote start button, use the emergency key blade from your fob to manually unlock your door if needed, then press the key fob directly against the ignition start button and start your Jeep as you normally would. This is the same procedure you would use if your key fob battery was completely dead.
Alt text: Illustrative image showing a hand pressing a Jeep Cherokee key fob against the engine start button on the dashboard.
By starting your 2019 Jeep Cherokee using this fob-on-start-button method, you often re-establish the connection between the key fob and your vehicle’s system. After this step, your key fob should function normally again, with all buttons working, including remote start, lock, and unlock.
This peculiar behavior suggests that the 2019 Jeep Cherokee (and possibly other models) might have a system that monitors key fob battery levels and requires a reset or re-sync when a new battery is installed. While not officially documented, this simple start-button method has proven effective for many owners.
In conclusion, replacing the battery in your 2019 Jeep Cherokee key fob is a task you can confidently handle yourself. Remember to use the correct CR2032 battery and, if you encounter issues after replacement, try the “start button” method. This simple solution can save you a trip to the dealer and get your key fob working perfectly again, ensuring you are back on the road with full functionality. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified mechanic or your Jeep dealership for further assistance.
