Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Not Working: Causes and Solutions

Push-button start has become popular in modern vehicles, including the Jeep Cherokee. However, like any other technology, push button start may sometimes malfunction or fail to work.

Your Jeep Cherokee push button start may not work if the car’s battery is dead or has a low charge. A quick way to resolve this issue is to Jump start the car’s battery or recharge the battery using a battery charger to get the vehicle running again.

In this article, we will explore the causes and solutions for Jeep Cherokee push button start issues and ways to prevent this issue from occurring.

Table of Contents

What is Push Button Start in Jeep Cherokee?

Push button start is a modern technology feature in many vehicles that allows the driver to start the engine without using a traditional key. Instead of inserting a key into the ignition and turning it to start the engine, the driver pushes a button located on the dashboard or center console of the vehicle.

Push button start technology uses a key fob, which communicates with the car’s onboard computer to allow the engine to start when the button is pushed. The key fob contains a unique code recognized by the car’s computer, which verifies the code and enables the engine to start.

Push button start is often coupled with keyless entry, which allows the driver to unlock and lock the vehicle’s doors by simply approaching the car with the key fob in their pocket or purse. This technology has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and ease of use.

Causes of Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Problems

Let’s explore some of the most common causes of this problem:

Battery Issues

Push button start system requires sufficient battery power to start the engine. A weak or dead battery prevents the push button start system from engaging the engine. To check if the battery is causing the issue, try turning on the car’s headlights or interior lights. If the lights are dim or do not turn on, it indicates a weak or dead battery.

Key Fob Problems

The key fob is a critical component of the push button start system, and if it is damaged, low on battery, or has a weak signal, it may not be able to communicate with the car’s computer system. This prevents the push button start from working properly.

Brake Pedal Sensor Malfunction

Push button start system requires the brake pedal to be depressed to engage the engine. If the sensor that detects the brake pedal is not functioning correctly, it will prevent the engine from starting. To check if the brake pedal sensor is causing the issue, ensure that the brake pedal is fully depressed and that no obstructions prevent it from functioning properly.

Ignition Switch Failure

The ignition switch provides power to the starter motor and other electrical components needed to start the engine. A malfunctioning ignition switch prevents the push button start system from engaging the engine.

Software Glitch

This start system relies on software to communicate with the car’s computer system and start the engine. Software glitches cause the system to malfunction, preventing the engine from starting. It’s also important to note that software glitches sometimes signify a larger underlying issue, so it’s recommended to have the car thoroughly checked by a qualified mechanic to identify it.

Early Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start

When the push button start system in a Jeep Cherokee is not working, there are several symptoms that indicate the underlying issue. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

Engine Not Starting: The most obvious symptom of a push button start issue is the engine not starting when the button is pushed.
Dashboard Lights Flashing: When the push button start failing, dashboard lights will flash or flicker when the button is pushed.
Clicking Noise When Pushing The Start Button: A clicking noise when the start button is pushed indicates a problem with the starter motor or the battery.
No Response When Pushing The Start Button: If there is no response when the start button is pushed, it could be an issue with the key fob, brake pedal sensor, ignition switch, or battery.

Tips to Fix ‘Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Not Working’ Issues

The solutions for the Jeep Cherokee push button start issue depends on the underlying cause of the issue. Here are some of the most common fixes:

Check the Key Fob: The key fob might be the cause of the issue. So, try replacing the battery or use a spare key fob to see if that solves the problem.
Inspect the Brake Pedal Sensor: If the brake pedal sensor is malfunctioning, ensure that the brake pedal is fully depressed and that no obstructions prevent it from functioning properly. Have the brake pedal sensor checked and replaced by a qualified mechanic.
Examine the Ignition Switch: Ignition switch can be the cause of the issue, try turning the key in the ignition to see if the engine starts. If the engine starts with the key but not the push button, it indicates an ignition switch failure. In this case, have the ignition switch checked and replaced by a qualified mechanic.
Check For Software Glitches: Try resetting the car’s computer system by disconnecting the battery for several minutes and then reconnecting it to remove glitches. Have the software updated or reprogrammed by a qualified mechanic if you see a bigger problem
Look Up the Battery: If the battery is the cause of the issue, try jump-starting the car or replacing the battery to see if that solves the problem.

Tips to Prevent Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Problems

While some causes of Jeep Cherokee push button start issues are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to help prevent some of these issues from occurring. Here are some tips to help prevent push button start problems:

Keep the Battery Charged: A weak or dead battery is one of the most common causes of push button start failure. Regularly check the battery charge level and replace the battery to prevent the problem.
Take Care of the Key Fob: The key fob is a critical component of the push-button start system. Avoid dropping or mishandling the key fob; replace the battery when needed.
Regular Maintenance: Regular vehicle maintenance can help prevent push button start issues. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your vehicle’s owner manual.
Use the Correct Key Fob: Using the wrong key fob causes communication issues between the key fob and the car’s computer, leading to the push button start failure.
Avoid Water Damage: Water damage creates electrical issues affecting the push button start system. Avoid driving through deep water or exposing the key fob or push button start system to water.

Final Words

Experiencing push button start issues in your Jeep Cherokee can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, by understanding the causes, symptoms, and solutions outlined in this article, you can quickly identify and address the problem. Regular maintenance, taking care of the key fob, and avoiding water damage are all essential in preventing push button start issues in the first place.

If you experience a push button start issue, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic to ensure the problem is fixed correctly. By taking care of your vehicle and addressing issues promptly, you can keep your Jeep Cherokee running smoothly and reliably for years.