Dodge Charger Key Fob Not Detected – What To Do?

Having a key fob for your Dodge Charger has several benefits. However, what could be wrong if your key fob isn't working? Let's take a look at the possible culprits below.

If your Dodge Charger key fob isn't detected, it could be due to the following:

  • Dead key fob battery
  • Damaged key fob
  • The key fob isn't programmed
  • Low car battery charge
  • Bad battery cable connection
  • Failed battery
  • Electrical issue
  • Malfunctioning immobilizer system

It can be frustrating not to know why your vehicle detects your key fob. This article will discuss the common reasons why this is happening and how to troubleshoot it. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about the Dodge Charger, so read on!

Dodge Charger key fob on a leather car seat, Dodge Charger Key Fob Not Detected - What To Do?

Dodge Charger Key Fob Not Detected - What To Do?

A car key fob works by emitting a signal detected by the car. This signal allows the car to unlock and startup. Unfortunately, if the Dodge Charger doesn't detect your car key fob, it will not function properly. Let's look at the possible reasons for this and how you can resolve the problem.

Red colored first generation Dodge Charger LX parked in a parking lot

Dead Key Fob Battery

When your car detects your key fob, the first thing to check is a dead battery in the key fob. Replace the essential fob batteries at the Dodge dealer or a local auto parts store.

Replacing the batteries will cost about $5 - 10, depending on which batteries you get new.

Possible Damaged Key Fob

The key fob itself may be damaged by water or something else. If the key fob is damaged in any way, try replacing it with a new one. Replacing the key fob will cost about $50 - 100 at the dealership or any major auto parts store.

Key fob Isn't Programmed

If the key fob is new and has never been used on another car, it might not be programmed to work with your Dodge Charger. If this is the case, you will need to visit a Dodge dealership or an auto locksmith to provide you with instructions and reprogram the key fob for your car.

Low Car Battery Charge

A car mechanic uses battery jumper cables to charge a dead battery

If the car battery is low, it may not be able to emit a signal that the key fob can pick up. To recharge your car battery, jump-start using another car or take your Charger to an auto parts store for help.

Bad battery cable connection

If the car key fob isn't programmed and you replace the batteries, your car might have a bad cable connection. Make sure that all cables are tight and connected correctly.

Failed battery

The battery itself could be bad if it won't stay charged and you have already replaced the batteries in your key fob. If this is the case, you will need to replace the battery with a new one.

Electrical Issue

If you've tried all of the above and your Dodge Charger key fob still isn't detected, it might be due to an electrical issue. First, check the fuse box for a blown fuse and replace it if necessary. If the fuse box is fine, check for an electrical issue by having your car checked at a dealership or auto electrical service center.

Malfunctioning immobilizer system

The immobilizer system is a security feature that is used in many cars. The purpose of the immobilizer system is to prevent the car from being started without the key fob present. Therefore, if there is a problem with the immobilizer system, it will not detect the key fob signal, and the car will not start.

How do I reset my Dodge key fob?

If you have tried to charge the car battery and replace the key fob batteries, you may need to reset the Dodge key fob. To do this, follow the steps below:

  1. First, put the key fob into the ignition.
  2. Next, turn the key to the "on" position.
  3. Next, hold the "unlock button" for 4 seconds, then hold the panic button.

After both buttons are held for 4 seconds, your key fob has been reset. You can follow these same steps to program a new key fob. However, if this doesn't solve your problem, you may need a new key fob from the dealership or regular Dodge parts store.

Car key on white background

Do I need to reprogram a key fob after changing the battery?

When you change the battery, you may need to reprogram your key fob if it isn't working. However, this depends on the key fob used for a newer or older car. Also, the process varies depending on your vehicle's brand, model, and year.

For example, many Chrysler key fobs will need to be reset before working correctly again. Therefore, it is worth trying the key fob after a battery change before programming it.

How can I start my Dodge Charger without the key fob?

Starting your Dodge Charger without a working key fob is possible. To do so, press the start button using the key fob itself.

Make sure that your foot is pressed on the brake before pressing the start button. This puts your car in neutral to allow for easier starting.

What causes a key fob to stop working?

The most common reasons for a key fob to stop working are dead batteries or water damage. If you have tried replacing the battery and it still doesn't work, you should probably get a new key fob from the dealership or regular Dodge parts store.

As mentioned earlier, if any of your vehicle's functions doesn't detect your car key fob, you could have an electrical issue. Check your fuse box for any blown fuses and replace them if necessary. If the fuse box is fine, there may be a different electrical issue, which requires inspecting at a dealership.

What are the benefits of a key fob?

The key fob has many benefits, but it is mainly used to help with convenience. For example, you no longer have to fumble for your key when you're in a hurry to get into your car on a cold day.

A key fob can also prevent thieves. It won't start the vehicle if someone that isn't authorized tries using it.

How can I get a new key fob?

You can get a new key fob from your local Dodge dealership or regular parts store. In addition, there are some aftermarket options but be warned that they may not function as expected with your car and cause further problems.

How can I fix my key fob suddenly not locking the car?

If your key fob starts not to lock the car, there could be several issues. You can check that the key fob is working properly by putting it into the ignition and turning both locks and unlock buttons on.

You can also check your car's central locking system to see if it's malfunctioning by locking and unlocking all of your car's doors. If you don't have any function, then this is the issue that needs to be fixed.

Check to see if all of the doors and hood are closed. If you find that some areas are open, the locks may not be working as they should.

There could also be a draining battery or a non-functioning central locking system electrical issue with your car. Whether it is electrical or mechanical, this requires inspection at a dealership so you can get it fixed easily.

Does key fob mean push to start?

No, a key fob does not mean push to start. The key fob is a physical device that tells your car to unlock, lock, remote start, or remote stop the engine. Push to start refers to starting your car without using the keys by pushing a button.

In other words, you can have a key fob that either needs to be put into the ignition or needs to be in the vehicle cabin to be started.

A key fob means that all car functions [start, lock, unlock, and alarm] are all on one remote. A car remote is different because it is only used to lock, unlock, and sound the alarm on the vehicle. A separate key is used to start the car on a car remote.

Hand holding key opening car or start engine car

Final Thoughts

Key fobs can be extremely helpful as they provide convenience and prevent car theft. However, if the key fob isn't working properly, you may need a new one from your local Dodge dealership or regular parts store. Replacing batteries and checking for water damage regularly can also help prolong your key fob's life.

If you're trying to start your Dodge Charger without a key fob, you can do so by pressing the start button using the key fob itself. The other way is to press the start button using the actual car's onboard computer.

For more articles like this one, check out our website:

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