Fix Your Jeep Grand Cherokee Remote Start with a Battery Replacement
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Problem: Remote Start Not Working
- Analyzing the Symptoms
- Identifying the Root Cause
- The Importance of a Good Battery
- Accessing the Battery
- Removing the Old Battery
- Installing the New Battery
- Making Adjustments for Battery Size
- Testing the New Battery
- Conclusion
Introduction
Have you ever experienced the frustration of your remote start not working? In this guide, we will discuss a common problem faced by Jeep Grand Cherokee owners—their remote start feature not functioning properly. We'll delve into the symptoms, identify the root cause, and provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to fix the issue. So, let's get started and get your remote start back on track!
The Problem: Remote Start Not Working
You hop into your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, press the start button on your key fob twice, but nothing happens. The remote start feature, which used to work flawlessly, now seems disabled. The instrument panel displays a message instructing you to start the vehicle to reset it. Frustrated and confused, you start the vehicle manually, wondering why the key fob fails to start the car remotely.
Analyzing the Symptoms
Before we dive into the solution, let's analyze the symptoms you're experiencing. When you attempt to use the remote start feature, nothing happens. There are no sounds, no signs of the engine trying to start remotely. Additionally, you notice a message on the instrument panel notifying you that remote start is disabled and prompting you to start the vehicle to reset it. These symptoms indicate that there might be an issue with the battery.
Identifying the Root Cause
To troubleshoot the remote start problem, we need to understand the root cause. In many cases, the culprit behind the malfunctioning remote start is often an aging or faulty battery. The 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee may still have its original battery after nearly eight years of use, which could explain the sluggish start and the remote start feature not working.
The Importance of a Good Battery
Having a healthy and properly functioning battery is crucial for various electrical components in your vehicle, including the remote start system. A weak or depleted battery can cause a range of issues, including the failure of remote start functionality. Therefore, replacing an old battery with a new one can often be the solution to this problem.
Accessing the Battery
The next step is accessing the battery. In the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the battery is located under the passenger seat. To access it, you'll need to move the seat all the way forward and up. Fortunately, the seat is powered, so even if the battery is dead, you should still be able to adjust the seat for battery access.
Removing the Old Battery
With the seat out of the way, you can now remove the cover over the battery compartment. The cover is held in place by four retainer clips, which can easily be unclipped. Once the cover is removed, you'll find the battery held in place by a bracket. Using a 13 millimeter socket, you need to remove two nuts that secure the bracket and hold the battery in place. Take note of the bracket's orientation, as it needs to be reinstalled in the same way.
Installing the New Battery
After removing the old battery, it's time to install the new one. Make sure to handle the battery with care and wear safety glasses and gloves for protection. Attach the positive terminal first, tightening the 10 millimeter bolt securely. Then, slide the new battery into place, ensuring it is oriented correctly.
Making Adjustments for Battery Size
When installing the new battery, you may come across a size discrepancy. In my case, the new battery was slightly longer than the original, causing an issue with the hold-down bracket. Fortunately, this can be easily addressed by extending the slots on the bracket. Use a screwdriver to hold the bracket close to the battery, ensuring a secure fit.
Testing the New Battery
With the new battery in place and properly secured, it's time to test the remote start functionality. Start the engine with the new battery and see if the remote start feature works as expected. Press the start button on your key fob twice and listen for the engine to start remotely. If all goes well, you should be back to enjoying the convenience of remote start in your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a weak or faulty battery can often be the cause behind a malfunctioning remote start feature in the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee. By replacing the battery with a new one, you can restore the functionality of the remote start system and get your vehicle up and running again. Remember to follow the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, and always prioritize safety when working with batteries.
