2021 Jeep Gladiator Keys and Smart Key User Guide
Standard key fob and smart key features are on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. Keyless entry and push-button start are easy with the smart key, but the traditional key provides security.
2023 JEEP GLADIATOR Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)
KEY FOB
Your vehicle is equipped with a key fob which supports Passive Entry, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ (if equipped), and Remote Start (if equipped). The key fob allows you to lock or unlock the doors and tailgate from distances up to approximately 66 ft (20 m). The key fob does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. The key fob also contains a mechanical key.
NOTE
- The key fob’s wireless signal may be blocked if the key fob is located next to a mobile phone, laptop, or other electronic device. This may result in poor performance.
- With the ignition on and the vehicle moving at 2 mph (4 km/h), all RKE commands are disabled.
WARNING: Push the Mechanical Key Release Button only with the key fob facing away from your body, especially your eyes and objects that may be damaged, such as clothing.
CAUTION: The electrical components inside of the key fob may be damaged if the key fob is subjected to strong electrical shocks. In order to ensure complete effectiveness of the electronic devices inside of the key fob, avoid exposing the key fob to direct sunlight.
- Mechanical Key Release Button
- LED Indicator
- Unlock Button
- Remote Start Button
- Panic Button
- Lock Button
To Lock/Unlock The Doors And Tailgate
Push and release the unlock button on the key fob once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice to unlock all the doors. To lock all the doors, push the lock button once. When the doors are unlocked, the turn signals will flash and the illuminated entry system will be activated. When the doors are locked, the turn signals will flash and the horn will chirp.
NOTE
- All doors can be programmed to unlock on the first push of the unlock button through Uconnect Settings.
- The mechanical flip key can be used to lock or unlock the doors, tailgate, glove compartment, storage compartments (if equipped), and rear seatbacks.
Using The Panic Alarm
To turn the Panic Alarm feature on or off, push the panic button on the key fob. When the Panic Alarm is activated, the turn signals will flash, the horn will pulse on and off, and the interior lights will turn on. The Panic Alarm will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by either pushing the panic button a second time or drive the vehicle at a speed of 2 mph (4 km/h) or greater.
NOTE
- The interior lights will turn off if you place the ignition in the ACC or ON/RUN position while the Panic Alarm is activated. However, the exterior lights and horn will remain on.
- You may need to be less than 35 ft (11 m) from the vehicle when using the key fob to turn off the Panic Alarm due to the radio frequency noises emitted by the system.
Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob
- The recommended replacement battery is CR2450.
NOTE
- Customers are recommended to use a battery obtained from Mopar®. Aftermarket coin battery dimensions may not meet the original OEM coin battery dimensions.
- Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate for further information.
- Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board.
- When a key fob battery is low, a warning will be indicated on the vehicle’s instrument cluster, and the fob LED will no longer illuminate with a button push.
- Remove the back cover of the key fob by inserting a flat-blade screwdriver into the slot on the bottom of the fob. Apply light pressure until the cover unsnaps being careful not to damage the seal. Proceed counterclockwise (in the order shown below) to loosen the remaining snaps until the battery cover can be removed.
- Remove the depleted battery by inserting a small flat-blade screwdriver into the battery removal slot and sliding the battery forward and upward being careful not to damage the electronic board underneath.
- Install the new battery into the key fob, making sure the positive (+) side is facing up. Slide the battery until it is seated securely below the tabs.
- Reassemble the back cover making sure it is properly aligned before snapping it back in place.
WARNING
- The integrated key fob contains a coin cell battery. Do not ingest the battery; there is a chemical burn hazard. If the coin cell battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just two hours and can lead to death.
- If you think a battery may have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek immediate medical attention.
- Keep new and used batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children.
Programming And Requesting Additional Key Fobs
Programming the key fob may be performed by an authorized dealer.
NOTE
- Once a key fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be repurposed and reprogrammed to another vehicle.
- Only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle. Once a key fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.
WARNING
- Always remove the key fobs from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
- Always place the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition in the OFF position.
Duplication of key fobs may be performed at an authorized dealer. This procedure consists of programming a blank key fob to the vehicle electronics. A blank key fob is one that has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer system serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer system prevents unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
The system uses a key fob, keyless push button ignition and a Radio Frequency (RF) receiver to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system cannot reprogram a key fob obtained from another vehicle. After placing the ignition switch in the ON/RUN position, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone attempted to start the engine with an invalid key fob. In the event that a valid key fob is used to start the engine but there is an issue with the vehicle electronics, the engine will start and shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than ten seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible by an authorized dealer.
CAUTION: The Sentry Key Immobilizer system is not compatible with some aftermarket remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.
All of the key fobs provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
IGNITION SWITCH
KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION
This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a START/STOP ignition button as long as the key fob is in the passenger compartment. The START/STOP ignition button has several operating modes that are labeled and will illuminate when in position. These modes are OFF, ACC, RUN, and START.
- OFF
- ACC
- RUN
The push button ignition can be placed in the following modes:
- OFF
- The engine is stopped.
- Some electrical devices (e.g. power locks, alarm, etc.) are available.
- ACC
- Engine is not started.
- Some electrical devices are available.
- RUN
- Driving position.
- All electrical devices are available.
- START
- The engine will start.
NOTE: In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of the START/STOP ignition button, the key fob may have a low or depleted battery. In this situation, a backup method can be used to operate the ignition switch. Put the nose side of the key fob (side with the mechanical flip key) against the START/STOP ignition button and push to operate the ignition switch.
CAUTION
- Do not use the Mechanical Key against the START/ STOP ignition button.
- Do not use sharp metal objects (e.g. screwdriver etc.) to pry the button out of the ignition switch. This button comes as an assembly, and is not removable. This can damage the silicone shield.
WARNING
- When exiting the vehicle, always remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock your vehicle.
- Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
- Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Children should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector.
- Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition in the ON/RUN position. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
- Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause serious injury or death.
CAUTION: An unlocked vehicle is an invitation for thieves. Always remove key fob from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
NOTE: When opening the driver’s door with the ignition in the ON/RUN (engine not running) position, a chime will sound to remind you to place the ignition in the OFF position. In addition to the chime, the message will display “Ignition Or Accessory On” in the cluster.
REMOTE START
REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED (GASOLINE)
This system uses the key fob to start the engine conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of 300 ft (91 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather, and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the driver enters the vehicle.
NOTE
- The vehicle must be equipped with an automatic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.
- Obstructions between the vehicle and key fob may reduce this range.
WARNING
- Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
- Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.
HOW TO USE REMOTE START
Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob twice within five seconds. The vehicle doors and tailgate will lock, the turn signals will flash twice, and the horn will chirp twice. Pushing the Remote Start button again will shut the engine off.
NOTE
- With Remote Start, the engine will only run for 15 minutes.
- Remote Start can only be used twice.
- If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
- The park lamps will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
- For security, power window operation is disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
- The ignition must be placed in the ON/RUN position before the Remote Start sequence can be repeated for a third cycle.
All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start:
- Gear selector in PARK
- Doors closed
- Hood closed
- Hazard switch off
- Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
- Battery at an acceptable charge level
- Panic button not pushed
- System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
- Vehicle Security system indicator flashing
- Ignition in OFF position
- Fuel level meets minimum requirement
- All removable doors must not be removed
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) not illuminated
TO EXIT REMOTE START MODE
To drive the vehicle after starting the Remote Start system, either push and release the unlock button on the key fob to unlock the doors, or unlock the vehicle using Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ — Passive Entry via the door handles, and disarm the Vehicle Security system (if equipped). Then, prior to the end of the 15 minute cycle, push and release the START/STOP ignition button. The Remote Start system will turn the engine off if the Remote Start button on the key fob is pushed again, or if the engine is allowed to run for the entire 15 minute cycle.
Once the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume the previously set operations (temperature, blower control, etc.).
NOTE
- To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will disable for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.
- For vehicles equipped with the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ — Passive Entry feature, the message “Remote Start Active — Push Start Button” will display in the instrument cluster display until you push the START/STOP ignition button.
REMOTE START FRONT DEFROST ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED
When Remote Start is active, and the outside ambient temperature is 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the system will automatically activate front defrost for 15 minutes or less. The time is dependent on the ambient temperature. Once the timer expires, the system will automatically adjust the settings depending on ambient conditions. See “Remote Start Comfort Systems — If Equipped” in the next section for detailed operation.
REMOTE START COMFORT SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED
When Remote Start is activated, the front and rear defrost will automatically turn on in cold weather. The heated steering wheel and driver heated seat feature will also turn on if programmed in the comfort menu screen within Uconnect Settings. In warm weather, the driver vented seat feature will automatically turn on when Remote Start is activated if programmed via the comfort menu screen. The vehicle will adjust the climate control settings depending on the outside ambient temperature.
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) — If Equipped
The climate controls automatically adjust to an optimal temperature and mode, dependent upon the outside ambient temperature. When the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume their previous settings.
Manual Temperature Control (MTC) — If Equipped
- In ambient temperatures of 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the climate settings will default to maximum heat, with fresh air entering the cabin. If the front defrost timer expires, the vehicle will enter Mix Mode.
- In ambient temperatures from 40°F (4.5°C) to 78°F (26°C), the climate settings will be based on the last settings selected by the driver.
- In ambient temperatures of 78°F (26°C) or above, the climate settings will default to MAX A/C, Bi-Level mode, and Recirculation on.
NOTE: These features will stay on through the duration of Remote Start, or until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position. The climate control settings will change if manually adjusted by the driver while the vehicle is in Remote Start mode. This includes turning the climate controls off using the OFF button.
REMOTE START CANCEL MESSAGE
The following messages will display in the instrument cluster if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits Remote Start prematurely:
- Remote Start Cancelled — Door Open
- Remote Start Cancelled — Hood Open
- Remote Start Cancelled — Fuel Low
- Remote Start Cancelled — Tailgate Open
- Remote Start Cancelled — Time Expired
- Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle To Reset
The message will stay active until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.
REMOTE START
REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED (DIESEL)
This system uses the key fob to start the engine conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of approximately 300 ft (91 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather, and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the driver enters the vehicle.
NOTE
- The vehicle must be equipped with an automatic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.
- Obstructions between the vehicle and the key fob may reduce this range.
- The Remote Start system will wait for the Wait To Start yellow telltale to extinguish before cranking the engine. This allows time for the engine pre-heat cycle to heat the cylinder air, and is normal in cold weather.
WARNING
- Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
- Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.
HOW TO USE REMOTE START
Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob twice within five seconds. The vehicle doors and tailgate will lock, the turn signals will flash twice, and the horn will chirp twice. Pushing the Remote Start button again will shut the engine off.
NOTE
- With Remote Start, the engine will only run for 15 minutes.
- Remote Start can only be used twice.
- If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
- The park lamps will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
- For security, power window operation is disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
- The ignition must be placed in the ON/RUN position before the Remote Start sequence can be repeated for a third cycle.
All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start:
- Gear selector in PARK
- Doors closed
- Hood closed
- Hazard switch off
- Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
- Battery at an acceptable charge level
- Panic button not pushed
- Fuel meets minimum requirement
- System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
- Vehicle Security system not active
- Malfunction Indicator/Check Engine telltale is not illuminated
- Water In Fuel telltale is not illuminated
- Wait To Start telltale is not illuminated
Useful Link
View Full PDF: 2021 Jeep Gladiator Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
2023 JEEP GLADIATOR Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)