The Cherokee is one of the most popular SUVs on today’s market because it can handle rough terrain with ease, has ample cargo space, and comes standard with many other great features.
One of these features is the push button start, which allows you to start the engine with a simple push of a button.
However, sometimes the push button start may fail to work, causing inconvenience and frustration for the driver.
Fortunately, I came across other Cherokees with the same problem, and it’s an easy fix.
In this article, I am going to talk about what to do if your Jeep Cherokee push start button won’t work anymore. let’s get right into it!
What is Push Start on a Jeep Cherokee?
Before getting into what is causing your Push start to stop working.
Let’s first look at what this feature is and how it works to get a better understanding of the problem.
The push start feature on your Jeep Cherokee allows you to start the engine with a simple push of a button, instead of having to turn the key in the ignition.
This is especially useful when it’s cold outside and your hands are frozen or wet!
How Does Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Work?
The push start technology on your Cherokee relies on the information it gets from your Key fob, which sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer.
This signal tells the computer that you are attempting to start the Cherokee, and it will allow the engine to turn on.
That is why this feature wouldn’t work if you don’t have your original keyfob since the signal it sends is unique to your specific fob.
Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start not Working Causes
Now, that I have explained how the whole system works, let’s look at what causes your Jeep Cherokee push start button not to work.
In short, I found that the main cause of Push button start failure in a Jeep Cherokee is a bad key fob battery.
This is the most common cause of push-start not working.
Your Cherokee’s key fob has a small battery that can run out of juice.
This is very common with key fobs in general and especially if you use it a lot.
So, if your Cherokee push button start is not working then check the key fob battery first before doing anything else.
How to Fix a Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start that is Not Working?
Now, that you know the main cause of this problem, let’s look at how to solve the issue.
In order to fix the push start on your Cherokee, you will need to replace the key fob battery. It is easy to do and it only takes a few minutes.
You can get a new battery for your Cherokees key fob at any Jeep dealership or you can even get it online (Make sure you order the correct type).
Once you have the new battery, all you need to do is pull out the old one and put in the new one. It’s as simple as that!
Here is a video showing you how to correctly change the key fob battery on your Cherokee
What kind of Battery Does a Jeep Cherokee key fob take?
It is essential that you get the right type and size for your Cherokee’s key fob, it will not fit or the key fob won’t work at all.
The recommended battery is a CR2032 battery and it is a 3v lithium battery. It will come with an adhesive backing so that the battery can be stuck onto the back of your key fob.
How Long Does Jeep Cherokee Key fob Battery Last?
Now, let’s look at how long a Jeep Cherokee key fob battery last.
It is recommended that the battery should be changed every 3 years or so, but it can last for up to 5 years.
If you notice that the key fob is not working as well as it used to then you should consider changing the battery.
Other Ways to Tell You Need to Change Your Key Fob Battery
Other than the push button start not working, there are other signs that you need to change your Jeep Cherokee key fob battery.
The first sign is that the lights on the key fob will not turn on when you press any button.
Another sign is when you try to lock/unlock your Jeep Cherokee, you have to press it multiple times before it works.
Additional Sources
https://www.nhtsa.gov/driver-assistance-technologies/keyless-ignition-systems
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Cherokee
https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/a38163093/all-about-push-button-starts/