Experiencing the frustration of a “Key Fob Not Detected” message in your 2013 Dodge Journey can be incredibly inconvenient. It’s a common issue that can leave you stranded, especially after you’ve already taken steps like replacing your key fob battery. Let’s delve into the possible causes and solutions when your Dodge Journey key fob seems to be causing starting problems, even after a battery change.
Many Dodge Journey owners encounter a situation where, despite having a seemingly functional key fob – lights blinking, locks responding – the vehicle refuses to acknowledge its presence. You might see the dreaded “Key Fob Not Detected” message on your dashboard, preventing you from starting the engine or even shifting out of park. This problem can arise even after you’ve proactively replaced the battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob.
One owner of a 2016 Dodge Journey described a similar perplexing issue. After receiving a low key fob battery warning and replacing the battery, their vehicle initially worked. However, shortly after, the “Key Fob not Detected” message appeared, and the car became unresponsive. Jumping the car battery seemed to temporarily resolve the issue, leading to the dealership suggesting a car battery replacement. A new car battery offered a brief reprieve, but the problem quickly returned. Even jump-starting the car again proved ineffective. This situation highlights that while a low car battery or key fob battery can be culprits, the issue might be more complex.
It’s understandable to first suspect the battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob. Key fobs rely on these small batteries to transmit signals to your vehicle. If you’ve recently replaced the battery, double-check that you’ve used the correct type. For many Dodge Journey key fobs, a CR2032 battery is standard. Ensure the battery is installed correctly, with the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals aligned properly. A faulty or incorrectly installed battery, even a new one, can still cause detection problems.
Alt text: Replacing the CR2032 battery in a 2013 Dodge Journey key fob. Ensure correct battery type and polarity for proper function.
However, if you’ve confirmed the battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob is correct and properly installed, and the problem persists, the issue might lie elsewhere. Here are other potential causes to consider:
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Car Battery Issues: While the dealership suggested this in the example case, and a car battery jump provided temporary relief, it’s worth investigating further. Ensure your car battery terminals are clean and tightly connected. A weak car battery, even a new one, can sometimes cause unusual electronic issues, including key fob detection problems. Have your car battery tested to rule out voltage or amperage problems.
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Key Fob Programming: It’s less common after a simple battery replacement, but sometimes the key fob can lose its programming or synchronization with the vehicle’s immobilizer system. Try using a spare key fob if you have one. If the spare works, your primary key fob might need reprogramming. Dealerships can reprogram key fobs, and some auto locksmiths offer this service as well.
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Receiver or Antenna Problems: Your Dodge Journey has a receiver antenna that picks up the signal from your key fob. If this receiver is faulty or the antenna is damaged, it might not be able to detect your key fob, even with a new battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob. This type of issue often requires professional diagnosis and repair.
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Faulty Key Fob: While less likely if the buttons on your key fob are working (locking/unlocking doors, panic button), there could still be an internal issue within the key fob itself that affects its ability to communicate with the vehicle for starting. Electronic components can fail, and a key fob is no exception.
Troubleshooting Steps You Can Take:
- Verify Key Fob Battery: Double-check the battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob. Confirm it’s a CR2032, installed correctly, and is a fresh battery.
- Check Car Battery Connections: Ensure your car battery terminals are clean, free of corrosion, and tightly fastened.
- Try Spare Key Fob: If you have a spare key fob, try using it. If the spare works, the issue is likely with your primary key fob.
- Jump Start (Again): Although it didn’t permanently fix the issue in the example, try jump-starting your car again, especially if you suspect a car battery drain issue. This can sometimes temporarily reset the system.
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your 2013 Dodge Journey owner’s manual may have specific troubleshooting steps for key fob issues or “Key Fob Not Detected” messages.
If these steps don’t resolve the problem, it’s advisable to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic or your Dodge dealership can diagnose the issue using specialized tools and expertise. They can check the key fob signal, receiver, immobilizer system, and other potential electrical problems. While the initial thought might be just the battery for your 2013 Dodge Journey key fob, a “Key Fob Not Detected” message can sometimes indicate a more complex underlying problem requiring expert attention.
