2014 dodge journey key not detected

Dodge Journey Key Not Detected: Causes & Fixes

The “Key Not Detected” on your Dodge Journey is a warning sign often associated with issues with the key fob. It will normally pop up when the driver attempts to switch on the vehicle, and the computer system cannot pick up a signal from the key fob. 

The warning message will come if any factor disrupts the communication between the key fob and the ECM. Once the push-start button is pressed and the key’s signal is not detected, the vehicle will not come, and the error will come up. Many factors could stop the vehicle from picking up signals from the key fob. These factors include dead key battery, damaged receiver module, dead car battery, and more. 

We will examine what a “Key Not Detected” means in a Dodge Journey. Also, explore the causes of this issue and how it could be fixed.

Meaning of Dodge Journey Key Not Detected

A Dodge Journey “Key Not Detected” is a warning message showing that the vehicle cannot communicate with the key fob, especially when you try to start the car.

What is a key fob? If you are unfamiliar with the term, it is a device that opens and unlocks the vehicle. Its most important function is its ability to start the car through the push-to-start function. 

The Push-to-start function in the Dodge Journey uses low-frequency communication. Once the start button is pressed, the engine computer picks up a signal from the key fob, which should be in the car at the time. 

Once the computer picks up the signal, the ECM sends power to the engine for ignition.

Sometimes, the computer system does not pick up any signal from the key fob. Check the key fob and ensure it is in the vehicle; if it is, there is an issue with the device. 

Without the ECM picking up signals from the key fob, the engine will not start. 

Causes of Dodge Journey Key Not Detected 

Many factors could cause a “Key Not Detected” warning message on your Dodge Journey dashboard. In most cases, it is an issue with the key fob. However, other issues could be responsible for the warning message, like damaged receiver modules. 

Below are some of the major causes of “key Not Detected.”

Dead key fob battery 

A major cause of the warning message “key Not Detected” is a dead battery. The Key fob uses a small button-like battery that powers it; unfortunately, it is not designed to last forever. 

The key fob battery will weaken and must be replaced at a certain point. You will notice the need to change the battery when the range of the key reduces. Now, you must draw closer to the car to open or close the door or press the button multiple times. 

You could also get a notification of the low battery on the dashboard of your Dodge Journey. 

Receiver module issues or interference 

Another cause of the “key Not Detected” warning message is when the receiver module is not working as it should. 

What is the receiver module? A device inside the vehicle receives signals from the key fob. It then sends signals to other components depending on whether to open or lock the door or trunk and start the engine. 

Sometimes, the signal from the key fob may be interfered with by other radio waves that do not allow the module to pick up the right signals. In other cases, the module might be damaged and unable to pick up any frequency. 

Water damage to the key fob 

If you expose your key fob to water, it could cause serious damage. You need to understand that the key is an electrical device, and it is not designed to be waterproof and will get damaged if exposed to a certain amount of water. 

Dead vehicle battery 

A dead Dodge Journey battery will stop the receiver module from picking up the key fob signal. The module receives power from the battery to function. Once there is no power flowing to the module, it will not work. 

Until the battery is charged, you cannot access and switch on the vehicle using the keyfob. 

Worn-out key fob 

The key fob will get worn out after long usage due to exposure to dirt, moisture, and other working conditions. 

You will notice that the key fob is worn when the buttons are harder to press, and it takes longer for the vehicle to respond to the key’s command. 

Also, the battery contact may become worn out, loose, or corroded due to oxidation, vibration, and other factors. This will have the same effect as having a dead battery. 

How to fix Dodge Journey Key Not Detected

Once you realize the Dodge Journey “Key Not Detected” warning message, you need first to figure out what the cause of the problem is. You can do this by inspecting all the vehicle components that could be the source of the issue. 

Below are ways to fix a Dodge Journey “Key Not Detected.”

Replace the key fob battery 

When the battery of your Dodge Journey key fob is dead, you need to replace it immediately. To do this, follow the steps below. 

• Find the small notch at the side of the key fob and insert a screwdriver or any other tool that can fit in. 
• Slowly pry open the case and separate it into two. 
• Find buttons like batteries and take note of how they were placed. 
• Insert the new batteries the same way the old ones were placed. 
• Snap the separated key fob back together and test the key. 

Replace key fob 

In case of water damage or extreme wear conditions, you may need a new key fob compatible with your vehicle. You can get this in an authorized Dodge dealership. 

Charge or replace car battery 

If you are faced with a dead battery car battery, the easy fix is to charge the battery. Sometimes, the issue might not be a dead battery; it could be that the terminals are corroded. In this case, you may need to have them clean. Make a baking soda and water mixture, using the mixture and a rag to clean the battery. 

Fix module issue 

To fix the receiver module, you need first to locate it. The module is under that dashboard, just behind the glove box. Once located, check the connections, wiring antenna, and other components. 

Go ahead and replace damaged parts of the module if you can. A professional should do issues like software malfunction. 

Final Thought!

If you are faced with a “Key Not Detected”, it is important that you have the issue solved fast before the key fob becomes completely nonfunctional. Fortunately, problems with the key fob can easily be fixed, and you may not require professional help. Also, it will not cost much to have the issue fixed, even if you have to replace the key. 

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I'm Edmond Davis, an automotive expert with years of experience in vehicle repair, performance, and safety. I graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Automotive Engineering and have worked with major companies like Ford, GM, and Chrysler. I'm a trusted source of information for anyone looking to learn more about cars or improve their driving experience.

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Key Not Detected Dodge Journey- 5 Ways to Fix it!

The Dodge Journey is a mid-size crossover SUV that offers a spacious interior, a powerful engine, and a smooth ride.

However, some owners may encounter a problem with their key fob not working properly.

This can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially if you are in a hurry or in an unfamiliar place.

The key fob is a remote device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, open the trunk, and start the engine with a push of a button.

It uses radio waves to communicate with the receiver module inside your vehicle.

When the key fob is not detected by your vehicle, it means that there is an issue with the signal transmission or reception.

There are several possible causes of the key fob not working in Dodge Journey.

Some of them are easy to fix, while others may require professional assistance. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes and how to fix them.

Key Not Detected Dodge Journey: 5 Ways to FIX

1. dead battery in the key fob.

The most common cause of the key fob not working in Dodge Journey is a dead battery.

The key fob uses a small button cell battery to power its functions. Over time, the battery will drain and need to be replaced.

Usually, there are signs of a weakening battery before it stops working completely. You may notice that the range of the key fob decreases, or that you need to press the buttons harder or multiple times to get a response.

You may also see a low battery warning light on your dashboard or instrument cluster.

To fix this problem, you need to replace the battery in your key fob. You can do this yourself by following these steps:

• Locate the small notch on the side of the key fob and insert a flathead screwdriver or a coin into it.
• Gently pry open the key fob case and separate the two halves.
• Remove the old battery and note its type and orientation.
• Insert a new battery of the same type and orientation into the battery holder.
• Snap the two halves of the key fob case back together and test the key fob.

Alternatively, you can take your key fob to a local auto parts store or a dealership and have them replace the battery for you.

2. Worn buttons or poor battery contact

The buttons on the key fob may wear out over time due to frequent use or exposure to dirt and moisture.

This can affect the electrical contact between the buttons and the circuit board inside the key fob.

Similarly, the battery contact may become loose or corroded due to vibration, shock or oxidation. This can prevent the battery from delivering enough power to the key fob.

To fix this problem, you need to clean and repair the buttons and the battery contact in your key fob. You can do this yourself by following these steps:

• Open the key fob case as described in the previous section.
• Remove the circuit board and inspect it for any signs of damage or corrosion.
• Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently clean the buttons and the battery contact. You can also use fine sandpaper or a pencil eraser to remove any dirt or oxidation.
• Reinstall the circuit board and the battery and close the key fob case.
• Test the key fob and see if it works.

Alternatively, you can take your key fob to a local electronics repair shop or a dealership and have them clean and repair it for you.

3. Water damage or defective key fob

Another possible cause of the key fob not working in Dodge Journey is water damage or a defective key fob.

The key fob is not waterproof and may get damaged if it gets wet or submerged in water. This can short-circuit the components inside the key fob and render it useless.

Similarly, the key fob may have a manufacturing defect or a faulty component that causes it to malfunction. This can happen due to poor quality control, improper handling, or accidental damage.

To fix this problem, you need to replace your key fob with a new one. You can do this yourself by following these steps:

• Purchase a new key fob that is compatible with your vehicle model and year. You can find one online or at a local auto parts store or dealership.
• Program the new key fob to your vehicle using the instructions provided with it. You may need another working key fob or your vehicle’s ignition key to do this.
• Test the new key fob and see if it works.

Alternatively, you can take your key fob and your vehicle to a local locksmith or a dealership and have them replace and program it for you.

4. Receiver module issues or signal interference

Another possible cause of the key fob not working in Dodge Journey is receiver module issues or signal interference. The receiver module is a device that is located inside your vehicle and receives the signals from the key fob.

It then sends the commands to the appropriate systems, such as the door locks, the trunk, and the engine.

The receiver module may have a problem with its wiring, fuse, relay, antenna, or software that prevents it from functioning properly. This can cause the key fob not to be detected by your vehicle or to work intermittently.

Similarly, the signal from the key fob may be blocked or interfered with by other sources of radio waves, such as cell phones, radio stations, power lines, or other vehicles. This can reduce the range or effectiveness of the key fob.

To fix this problem, you need to check and repair the receiver module or avoid signal interference in your key fob. You can do this yourself by following these steps:

• Locate the receiver module in your vehicle. It is usually located under the dashboard, behind the glove box, or in the trunk.
• Check the wiring, fuse, relay, antenna, and software of the receiver module and see if they are in good condition and properly connected. You may need a multimeter, a wiring diagram, and a scan tool to do this.
• Replace or repair any faulty or damaged parts of the receiver module and test the key fob.
• Keep your key fob away from other sources of radio waves and see if it works better.

Alternatively, you can take your key fob and your vehicle to a local auto repair shop or a dealership and have them check and repair the receiver module or avoid signal interference for you.

5. Dead 12-volt battery or unpaired key

Another possible cause of the key fob not working in Dodge Journey is a dead 12-volt battery or an unpaired key. The 12-volt battery is the main battery that powers your vehicle’s electrical systems, such as the lights, the radio, and the ignition.

If the battery is dead or low on charge, it may not be able to provide enough power to the receiver module and other systems that are needed to detect and respond to the key fob.

Similarly, the key fob may not be paired or programmed to your vehicle. This can happen if you have a new key fob if you have replaced the battery or the receiver module, or if you have reset the system.

In this case, the key fob and the vehicle will not recognize each other and will not communicate.

To fix this problem, you need to charge or replace the 12-volt battery or pair or program the key fob to your vehicle. You can do this yourself by following these steps:

• Check the 12-volt battery in your vehicle and see if it is dead or low on charge. You can use a voltmeter, a battery tester or a jump starter to do this.
• Charge or replace the 12-volt battery and test the key fob.
• Pair or program the key fob to your vehicle using the instructions provided with it. You may need another working key fob or your vehicle’s ignition key to do this.

Alternatively, you can take your key fob and your vehicle to a local auto repair shop or a dealership and have them charge or replace the 12-volt battery or pair or program the key fob for you.

The key fob is a convenient and useful device that allows you to control your Dodge Journey remotely.

However, it may stop working due to various reasons, such as the dead battery, worn buttons, water damage, defective key fob, receiver module issues, signal interference, dead 12-volt battery, or unpaired key.

To fix these problems, you need to replace the battery, clean and repair the buttons and the battery contact, replace the key fob, check and repair the receiver module, avoid signal interference, charge or replace the 12-volt battery, or pair or program the key fob.

Some of these fixes are easy and can be done by yourself, while others may require professional assistance. In any case, it is important to fix your key fob as soon as possible to avoid any inconvenience or safety issues.

We hope this article has helped you understand why your Dodge Journey key fob is not working and how to fix it. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

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Home » Troubleshooting » Dodge Journey key fob not working – causes and how to fix it

Dodge Journey key fob not working – causes and how to fix it

The remote keyless system in Dodge Journey allows the driver to conveniently lock and unlock the vehicle with the press of a button. When the key fob stops working, it quickly becomes an inconvenience to manually lock and unlock the vehicle. In some cases it can even leave you stranded if the vehicle can’t detect the key and won’t let you start the engine.

The most common cause of key fob not working in Dodge Journey is dead battery. But the remote key can also stop working due to worn buttons, poor battery contact, water damage, defective key fob, receiver module issues, signal interference, dead 12 volt battery, and unpaired key requiring reprogramming.

1. Dead battery in key fob

Dead battery is the leading cause of key fob not working in Journey. Usually there are signs of weakening battery before it gives up. If the remote was working previously, but the range of the remote was gradually decreasing until it ceased to function, this indicates that the battery was wearing out.

Replace the battery

If the button cell battery in the key fob of Journey is replaced incorrectly or a battery is unsuitable, it can damage the vehicle key. Only replace drained batteries with new batteries in the same voltage, size, and specification. Make sure the battery is facing in the right direction when inserting it.

Recommended video

Key fob not working after replacing the battery

When purchasing a new battery for the key fob of your Journey, keep in mind that the battery may be sitting on the shelf for a long time. Therefore after replacement it may not work, or may not last that long. Try purchasing the battery from a store where stock moves fast. If you still can’t get the key fob to work after verifying that the battery is healthy, your key fob issues may not be due to bad battery.

Starting the engine with dead key fob battery

If your Journey has push button start/stop feature, your vehicle may not start due to weak key fob battery and a ‘key not detected’ alert message may be displayed in the instrument cluster. Don’t worry, you can still start your vehicle, the immobilizer is controlled by a passive transponder. Passive means, among other things, that the transponder in the key does not need its own power source.

Touch the start/stop button with your key fob and then start the engine. If it doesn’t work, then look in the owners manual for exact location of key fob placement, as it may vary depending on model.

Use spare key: You can try starting your Journey with its second key. It will also rule out any other problem with the first key, for example, water damage.

How long does the key fob battery last?

Depending on how often you use the key fob or remote control of your Journey, the battery should last between two and four years. This is assuming the new battery you installed is healthy and its use by date is many years away.

2. Poor battery connection

The battery inside the key fob of Journey has metal retaining clips that hold the battery in position and completes the circuit. If the clips don’t have any tension, it can cause contact issues and the remote may not receive any power. Make sure the battery is firmly placed and does not move around when you shake the remote. Also make sure all the battery contacts are corrosion and dust free.

3. Water damage

If your Dodge Journey key fob has taken a bath in the soapy water of the washing machine after you forgot to take it out of your pants pocket, water damage is very likely.

Water resistant, not waterproof

Your Journey key has rubber seals which prevents the water from getting to the electronic chip inside. A splash of water or brief exposure to light rain should be fine, but exposure to excessive amount of water like submerging the key in the pool can cause the water to penetrate the seals and damage the chip. Submerging the key in ocean water at the beach can be much more damaging to key fob electronics due to highly conductive nature of salt water.

But my key fob survived water exposure?

If your Journey key fob survived a wash cycle, or a deep bath in the ocean or pool water, it doesn’t make the key fob waterproof, it means you got lucky. Exposure to excessive water increases the risk of water damage, so you shouldn’t make this a habit.

What to do in case of water damage?

If your Journey key fob stopping working after exposure to clean tap water or rain, immediately remove the battery and clean the electronic component with paper towel and let it dry fully before putting back the battery. In case of exposure to salt water, or soapy or dirty water, it is recommended to clean the chip with isopropyl alcohol or electronic cleaner. If the key fob still doesn’t work after cleaning and drying, the chip is probably fried and you will have to buy a new key.

4. Dead 12 volt battery

The remote keyless system and the central locking system in Journey require the 12 volt battery to be in healthy state to function properly. If the 12 volt battery is dead or if the electric current has been interrupted due to corrosion on the battery terminals or the ground connection, all on-board electronics will stop working.

In this case, you will have to manually unlock the door of your Journey with physical key. Also, the electrical accessories (e.g. headlights, fan, and infotainment system) will not function or may function poorly, and the engine will not start. Check the 12v battery and its connections.

5. Signal interference

Journey remote control signal can be disrupted by objects, poor weather conditions or transmitters on the same frequency band close to the vehicle. The remote key may work when you’re near the vehicle, but may not work from a distance. In case of severe interference, the remote may not work at all.

Interference signals can be caused not only by neighboring radio masts and towers, but also by unprofessionally installed satellite systems. A large part of the radio interference is caused by defects and aging effects in electrical devices and radio systems, which lead to unwanted emissions, radiation and repercussions on power and communication networks. Your Journey key fob should start working again when you leave the area of interference.

6. Reprogramming required

In rare cases, the remote key of Journey may stop working due to pairing issues. The key can be reprogrammed with an OBDII scanner. You may also be able to program a key by following a few steps, an original key is typically required for successful pairing. The instructions should be mentioned in the owners manual. If you fail to do it yourself, you may have to visit an authorized dealer for reprogramming of the key.

7. Defective key fob

If your Journey key fob stopped working after you dropped it on the floor, you may have damaged the internal chip. Or, if your key fob just stopped working one day out of the blue, in rare cases this could indicate a faulty key fob – assuming you have tried everything to fix the issue e.g. battery replacement, reprogramming and the spare key fob works.

8. Faulty receiver module

Dodge Journey has a remote keyless system receiver that receives radio frequency signals from the key fob. If none of your key fobs work, and and you can’t reprogram the keys, it is possible the receiver module has developed a fault.

You may have to perform further diagnostics to identify the faulty. The keyless entry antenna could be damaged, or the module is just not communicating with other modules on the vehicle. In these cases an OBDII scan tool can be used to verify if the commands are being transmitted and acted on by the security module.

9. Electronic immobilizer fault

The immobilizer is an anti-theft security system that prevents the engine from being started and the vehicle from being moved with an unauthorized vehicle key. A fault in the immobilizer system can prevent your Journey from being started. You may also see a warning light with key symbol or key not detected message in the instrument cluster.

For vehicles with an ignition lock

There is a chip in the vehicle key. The chip automatically deactivates the immobilizer if a valid vehicle key is inserted into the ignition lock. The electronic immobilizer is activated automatically when the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock.

For vehicles with a starter button

There is a chip in the vehicle key. It is used to automatically deactivate the electronic immobilizer when there is a valid remote control vehicle key in the vehicle interior. The electronic immobilizer is automatically activated as soon as there is no valid vehicle key in the vehicle.

The engine can only be started with a genuine vehicle key that is coded correctly. You can obtain coded vehicle keys from an authorized Dodge dealer.

Reset the system

If the key fob is not working due to a glitch in the keyless entry system, it may be possible to restore the functionality by resetting the keyless entry system in your Journey.

There isn’t any button or option to reset the keyless entry system in Journey, but you can reboot all the on-board computers by disconnecting the 12 volt battery for a few minutes. Remove the cable from the negative terminal of the battery first, then from the positive terminal. With the battery disconnected, press the horn button a few times and turn on the headlights to drain out all the residual electricity from the system. After about 15 minutes, reconnect the battery in reverse order: positive cable first, then negative cable.

Use OBD2 scanner for diagnosis

Since Dodge Journey is equipped with on-board diagnostics (OBD), a fault diagnosis can provide initial indications of where the malfunction is located. This method will be especially useful when diagnosing a faulty remote keyless system receiver module.

To begin troubleshooting, you must first connect the diagnostic tool to your Journey. The OBDII connector is usually located under the dashboard. With the tool connected, turn on the ignition. Most diagnostic devices then ask for some information about the vehicle. It is important that you enter this 100% correctly, otherwise the result of the search may be inaccurate. In addition to the vehicle make, model, and engine type, you usually also have to type in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Since some OBD codes are manufacturer-specific, the scanner will be able to give you more accurate information if you enter more details about your Journey.

Conclusion:

There are many reasons why your Dodge Journey key fob is not working. When looking for the reason, you should start with the most obvious cause that is easy to diagnose: dead battery, which you can replace in a few minutes.

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Dodge Journey Key Fob Not Working: 5 Common Causes

If your Dodge Journey’s key fob is not working, the most common reason is a dead battery. Followed by water damage or fob failure. 

Below, we’ve listed everything you need to do to get your vehicle’s fob working again.

A dead battery is the most common reason a Dodge Journey’s key fob fails.

Table of Contents

• Dead Battery
• Out of Range
• Water Damage
• Reprogramming Required
• Key Fob Failure

1. Dead Battery

The most common reason a key fob isn’t working is that the battery has died and needs to be replaced . 

Some vehicles will display a warning message that the key fob battery is about to die.  Depending on your Dodge Journey’s model year, it may or may not warn you.

To replace your Journey’s key fob battery, you’ll have to pop it open. You can find battery replacement instructions on YouTube for almost any vehicle’s remote.  Otherwise, check the owner’s manual.

Once you open it, write down the key fob battery number and get a replacement.  The most common size is CR2032.

Starting a Push to Start Vehicle With a Dead Key Fob

Keyless entry systems have been around for a while, but the combination of a push-start button and no physical ignition key is still relatively new.  Even if your Dodge Journey’s key fob is not working, you can still start your push to start vehicle. Here’s how:

• You’ll need to gain access to your Journey if the doors are locked. Most keyless start vehicles have a physical key hidden in the key fob. 
• Look on the back of your fob for a button you can push to slide the fob out. The only tumbler to insert this key is likely the driver’s door.
• Hold the key fob close to the ignition button and press it until the vehicle starts. Try pressing the key into the push start button. The ring around it actively searches for the key fob and should pick it up.

Key Fob Not Working After a Battery Change

If you’ve changed your Dodge Journey’s key fob, and it’s still not working it’s likely that you have a damaged circuit board.  You may need to reprogram the key to work with your vehicle. 

Most vehicles’ key fobs work the same way.  Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on reprogramming the key fob.

This video is a fantastic resource on how to get most vehicles to recognize their key fob again after changing the battery.

2. Out of Range

The second reason your key fob might not work is that it’s out of range from your Journey. 

Key fobs generally have a range of about 30 feet, so if you’re too far away from your vehicle, it won’t respond.

Be sure to check that the key fob is close enough before trying to start your Dodge Journey.  If it works when you get close, it almost certainly has a low battery.

3. Water Damage

The third reason why your Dodge Journey’s key fob might not be working is that it’s been exposed to water. 

If your key fob has gotten wet, the circuits may have shorted out or corroded and will need to be replaced. 

Take your vehicle to a professional auto locksmith or a dealer who can program a new key fob for you.

4. Reprogramming Required

Your Journey’s keypad may need reprogramming.  This is usually the case if you’ve you’re using a fob that didn’t originally come with your vehicle. 

To reprogram your key fob, consult your car’s manual or contact a local mechanic to help.

5. Key Fob Failure

Another reason could be that there is a problem with the internal circuitry in your key fob, which can happen from wear and tear over time.

If this is the case, you will likely need to replace your Dodge Journey’s key fob.

If you have recently changed your vehicle’s battery or had the electronics in it serviced, then this could also be the cause of your key fob not working.

In this instance, you will need to reprogram your key fob with your car’s onboard computer. You should only suspect the computer needs reprogramming if BOTH key fobs don’t work.

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2013 Dodge Journey Battery+ETC+key not detected+Vehicle not in park

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I was driving home one night, in my 2013 Dodge Journey SE 2.4L, when the battery clamp (attaches to the battery post) broke and the car died. Replaced the clamp and the car started right up. I drove it for about 3 hours and the car started acting like the battery was dead (Radio shut off, lights dimmed, engine idled up when pressing gas) then it died. I checked the clamp to ensure it had a good connection, which it did. My dad replaced the clamp again (to be safe) and the car wont start at all now. I have to hold the fob on the push button to get it to detect it. When trying to start the car by its self, the windshield wipers come on (WITH THE WIPERS SWITCHED OFF), all the lights flash then everything goes dim. It doesnt even try to click or crank when turning key. It just keeps saying ":Key Not Detected" even when the key is in the car, or Vehicle Not In Park" even when it is in park. The lights are all dim like the battery is dead but the battery if fine. The car will start when we jump start it, but will immediately die a few seconds after taking off jumper cables. I'm really lost here. We were thinking the alternator was out but its fine. Battery is new. Clamps are new. I replaced my key fob battery too. Any advice is greatly appreciated! Thank you in adcance!  

Did u ever get this issue resolved. Because I just got the same vehicle and I'm going through some of the exact issues except its cranking but wont turn over.  

By not turning over, do you mean you hear it attempt to crank, but doesn't? Try this - move the gear select to neutral. You will have to turn the ignition on (don't start), place your foot on the brake to release the interlock and move the gear shift to neutral. Then try starting. If it does start, then the TRS (Transmission Range Sensor) is possibly faulty. Unfortunately, the TRS is not easily accessible. It will require dropping the transmission pan, remove the valve body and solenoid pack to gain access to the TRS. We had this intermittent issue with our 2010 Journey SXT. Would go for months fine, then would not crank or have a short crank and would not start. If I moved the gear select to neutral, it would fire right up and go for months before the issue occcured again. Never did resolve it completely as my wife totaled it on black ice a few years ago.  

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• Alarms, Keyless Entry, Key Fobs, Locks & Remote Start

2015 R/T: Key Fob Not Detected

By Papa V February 17, 2015 in Alarms, Keyless Entry, Key Fobs, Locks & Remote Start

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I bought a brand new 2015 Journey R/T w/ a window sticker of almost $36K on 2/6/15.

Nine days later I get a "Key Fob Not Detected" message from both fobs and my brand new R/T would't start even after trying 10x over an hour's time.

It was a cold February Ohio morning near 5F.

It has 498 miles on the clock.

AAA tried to start it also and it wouldn't start w/ same message "No key Fob Detected" message......so he flat-bedded it over to a nearby Dodge-Chrysler Dealer and it wouldn't start f/ them either despite several attemps.

Some time later in the day they dragged it inside the service area where the R/T apparently warmed up a bit and............it started.

The service mgr. tells me it starts every time now........so they have put it back outside in the cold to see what happens.

He also tells me he has NO IDEA WHY THIS IS HAPPENING.

I see where my probelm is not an isolated incident.

Has anyone out there figured out WTF the root cause of this problem is?

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Well, first of all, did it start when you used the 'when your fob isn't working' trick described in the manual?

I believe that the root cause would be Mother Nature and her God awful Polar Vortex.

Journey's don't like the cold

My 4th winter and have never had a sign of a problem

even when out all nite at -24 C.

Why would someone read their manual and perform the procedure that is there which clearly details how to start the car if this should happen? That doesn't even make sense...

Well today I got the replace battery message so maybe mine was getting low- also have to get my radio replaced again as the Navigation has crapped out again

If you are having radio issues (or even if you are not) and plan to keep the car you should seriously consider an extended warranty. You do not want to know how much some of the modules in these vehicles costs - like C$1700 for the nav radio (you can find used ones out there for less, but . . . .)

Journeyman425

I bought a brand new 2015 Journey R/T w/ a window sticker of almost $36K on 2/6/15. Nine days later I get a "Key Fob Not Detected" message from both fobs and my brand new R/T would't start even after trying 10x over an hour's time. It was a cold February Ohio morning near 5F. It has 498 miles on the clock. AAA tried to start it also and it wouldn't start w/ same message "No key Fob Detected" message......so he flat-bedded it over to a nearby Dodge-Chrysler Dealer and it wouldn't start f/ them either despite several attemps. Some time later in the day they dragged it inside the service area where the R/T apparently warmed up a bit and............it started. The service mgr. tells me it starts every time now........so they have put it back outside in the cold to see what happens. He also tells me he has NO IDEA WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. I see where my probelm is not an isolated incident. Has anyone out there figured out WTF the root cause of this problem is? PEACE

Was the root cause of this issue ever determined? If this should ever happen to you (or anyone) again, follow this procedure first as suggested earlier before having the car towed:

This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition with the push of a button as long as the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is in the passenger compartment.

The Keyless Ignition Node (KIN System) has four operating positions, three of which are labeled and will illuminate when in position. The three positions are: OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The fourth position is START. During start, ON/RUN will illuminate.

In case the ignition does not change with the push of a button, the RKE transmitter (Key Fob) may have a low or dead battery. In this situation, a back up method can be used to operate the ignition switch. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emergency key) of the Key Fob against the Engine START/STOP button and push to operate the ignition.

• 7 months later...

Did you put your foot on the Brake Pedel to start ?

I can pretty much assure you that that was not the OP's issue. The OP reports he got the 'FOB not detected' message, meaning that the vehicle was asked to do something that required the FOB to be in range. You get a different message, specifically one directing you to press the brake pedal when you press the start button and you aren't already pressing on it, so your question is likely redundant.

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