2024 Jeep Wrangler Keys and Smart Key Operations

The 2024 Jeep Wrangler has a cutting-edge key and smart key technology that makes driving more enjoyable with improved safety and convenience features. Despite being outdated, the Wrangler still comes with the standard physical key, which is a safe and easy way to open doors and start the engine. But the Smart Key method goes one step further by letting you enter and start your car without a key. As soon as you get close to the car with the Smart Key, proximity sensors will go off, letting you open the doors with a touch of the handle. After getting inside, starting the engine is easy—all you have to do is press the starter button. The powerful Wrangler is ready to go. In addition, the Smart Key system often comes with features like a remote start that lets you heat or cool the house before you even get inside. This addition of current key technology combines ease of use and safety, capturing the innovative spirit of the famous Jeep Wrangler.

KEYS

KEY FOB

Your vehicle is equipped with a key fob that 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 swing the gate 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 flip 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 efficiency of the electronic devices inside of the key fob, avoid exposing the key fob to direct sunlight.

Key Fob

1. Mechanical Key Release Button
2. LED Indicator
3. Unlock Button
4. Lock Button
5. Remote Start Button
6. Panic Button

NOTE:

• In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the key fob may have a low or fully depleted battery. A low-key fob battery condition may be indicated by a message in the instrument cluster display, or by the LED light on the key fob. If the LED key fob light no longer illuminates from the key fob button push, then the key fob battery requires replacement.
• Improper disposal of key fob batteries may be harmful to the environment. Please see an authorized dealer for proper battery disposal

To Lock/Unlock The Doors And Swing Gate

Push and release the unlock button on the key fob once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice to unlock all the doors and swing gate. To lock all the doors, push the lock button once.
When the doors are unlocked, the turn signals will flash. 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 the Uconnect Set-

Key Left Vehicle Feature

If a valid key fob is no longer detected inside the vehicle while the vehicle’s ignition system is in the ON/RUN or START position, the message “Key Fob Has Left The Vehicle” will be shown in the instrument cluster display along with an interior chime. An exterior audible and visual alert will also be activated to warn the driver. The vehicle’s horn will rapidly chirp three times along with a single flash of the vehicle’s exterior lights.
NOTE:

• The doors have to be open and then closed in order for the vehicle to detect a key fob. The Key Left Vehicle feature will activate when the first door is closed and no key fob is detected in the vehicle. If the warning has been activated, and the other doors are closed, no other warnings will be issued.
• These alerts will not be activated in situations where either the vehicle’s engine is left running with the key fob inside, or the key fob’s wireless signals are blocked.

Using The Panic Feature

To turn the Panic feature on or off, push the Panic button on the key fob. When the Panic feature is activated, the turn signals will flash, the horn may pulse on and off (if equipped with a horn alarm), and the interior lights will turn on. The Panic feature will stay on for three minutes unless you turn it off by either pushing the Panic button a second time or driving the vehicle at a speed of 15 mph
(24 km/h) or greater.
NOTE:

• The interior lights will turn off if you place the ignition in the ON/RUN position while the Panic feature is activated. However, the exterior lights and horn (if equipped with a horn alarm) will remain on.
• You may need to be closer than 66 ft (20 m) from the vehicle when using the key fob to turn off the Panic feature due to the radio frequency noises emitted by the system.

Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob

The recommended replacement battery is CR2450.
NOTE:

• • 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 press.

1. Remove the back cover of the fob by inserting a flat–blade screwdriver into the slot on the bottom of the fob. Pry until the cover unsnaps being careful not to damage the seal. Proceed counterclockwise to pry the remaining snaps until the battery cover can be removed.
2. Remove the depleted battery by inserting a small flat-blade screwdriver into the battery removal slot and sliding the battery forward and up being careful not to damage the electronic board underneath.
3. 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.
4. 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.

WARNING!

• 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 into a vehicle, it cannot be repurposed and reprogrammed into another vehicle.
• Only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.

WARNING!

• Always remove the key fobs from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
• For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition, always remember to place the ignition in the OFF position when exiting the vehicle.

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.
• The key fob with the mechanical flip key must be ordered to the correct key cut to match the vehicle locks.

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 into 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 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 checks, 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. If 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 10 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 Start 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
NOTE:
A key fob that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key.

IGNITION SWITCH

KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION
This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a 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.

START/STOP Ignition Button

1. OFF
2. ACC
3.  RUN

The push-button ignition can be placed in the following modes:
OFF

• The engine is stopped.
• Some electrical devices (e.g. power locks, alarms, etc.) are available.

ACC

• The engine is not started.
• Some electrical devices (e.g. climate controls, heated seats, etc.) 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 press 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.

Backup Starting Method

Do Not Use Mechanical Key

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 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, and 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 the key fob from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

NOTE:

• For more information on normal starting, see
• When opening the driver’s door with the ignition in the ON/RUN position (engine not running), 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.

KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION — PHEV ONLY

This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button as long as the key fob is in the passenger compartment.
NOTE:
This vehicle is equipped with an automatic shutdown feature. If the vehicle is left with the ignition in the RUN position (engine not running) with the gear selector in PARK for 30 minutes, it will automatically turn off the vehicle. If the driver door is opened, then closed while propulsion is active and the vehicle is in PARK, the vehicle will shut down. Notifications have been designed into this feature to raise awareness of the timed event by showing messages in the instrument cluster display. The instrument cluster display will also show the message “Ready to Drive” accompanied by three audible chimes while the driver door is opened while the ignition state is in READY mode. The interior warnings will occur regardless of whether the key fob remains in the vehicle or is removed. The horn will sound three times, and the turn signals will flash if the key fob is removed from the vehicle while the ignition state is in READY mode.
To restart the vehicle, follow the normal process for starting your vehicle.
The Keyless Push Button Ignition has several operating modes that are labeled and will illuminate when in position. These modes are OFF, ACC, RUN, and START.
NOTE:

• Pushing the START/STOP ignition button may only activate the Electric Propulsion system and not start the vehicle’s engine (if running the engine is not currently required by the Hybrid system). READY will show in the instrument cluster display whenever the vehicle is operating in Electric mode and the vehicle is stationary.
• If the vehicle’s ignition is in either ACC or RUN, the vehicle charge indicator may not display a value greater than 99% state of charge due to vehicle loads.

Keyless Push Button Ignition

1.  OFF
2. ACC
3. RUN

The ignition can be placed in the following positions:

OFF

• The vehicle is stopped
• Some electrical devices are available

ACC

• Some electrical devices are available
• Mechanical power (vehicle propulsion) is not available

RUN

• Driving position
• All electrical devices are available
• As long as READY appears in the instrument cluster display, it does not matter if the engine is running or not, vehicle propulsion is available

START

• The vehicle will start

NOTE:
Vehicle propulsion is only available after the vehicle has passed through the START position.

Conditions Which May Cause The Engine To Run

• When the Hybrid Battery State of Charge (SOC) has reached <1%
• When applying maximum vehicle acceleration
• While maintaining the Exhaust System Catalyst Temperature in Hybrid or e-save modes
• When the hood is open with the ignition in RUN, post-START mode
• When Manual Mode/Tip Mode is in use
• When the engine is temporarily operating in Fuel and Oil Refresh Mode (e.g. if the system detects a stale fuel or aged oil condition after a long period without combustion engine operation)
• When the vehicle is started in very cold ambient temperatures
• When the vehicle is in a lower ambient temperature and may need to support passenger compartment heating

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 press 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.

NOTE:
In extreme climates (hot or cold environments), the vehicle will need to be plugged in prior to starting the vehicle, or the vehicle may not start.

WARNING!

• When leaving 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.

WARNING!

• 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 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 ACC or RUN position. A child could operate power windows, and 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 theft. Always turn the vehicle off, remove the key fobs from the vehicle, and lock all the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

NOTE:
If the brake is pressed and the ignition is placed in the RUN position with an EVSE connected to the vehicle, the instrument cluster display will not display the READY state. When the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) is unplugged from the vehicle, the vehicle will go into the READY state. If the vehicle is not shifted out of PARK 30 minutes after being unplugged, the vehicle will disable the READY state. After an additional 30 minutes with no change in ignition status, the ignition will turn off and the vehicle will power down.
For more information on normal starting,

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED

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 328 ft (100 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the customer 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 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 swing gate 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 the 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 remotely start:

• Gear selector in PARK
• Doors closed
• Hood closed
• Swing gate closed
• Hazard switch off
• The brake switch is inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
• Battery at an acceptable charge level
• The panic button was not pushed
• System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
• Vehicle Security system indicator flashing
• Ignition in the OFF position
• Fuel level meets minimum requirement
• All removable doors must not be removed
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) not illuminated

WARNING!

• Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide 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.

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 Key-less 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 previously set operations (temperature, blower control, etc.).
NOTE:

• To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will be disabled 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 the front defrost for 15 minutes or less. The timing 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 defrosters will automatically turn on in cold weather con-ditions. The heated steering wheel and driver heated seat feature will turn on if programmed in the Comfort menu screen within Uconnect Settings page 201. In warm weather, the driver-vented seat feature will automatically turn on when Remote Start is activated if programmed in the Comfort menu screen. The vehicle will adjust the climate control settings depending on the outside ambient temperature.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is equipped with a rear climate system, it will remain off to allow for optimal front-row performance. Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) — If Equipped The climate controls will automatically adjust to the optimal temperature and mode settings dependent on the outside ambient temperature. This will occur until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position where 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, with 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, and exit the automatic defaults 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 WINDSHIELD WIPER DE-ICER ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is active and the outside ambient temperature is less than 33°F (0.6°C), the Windshield Wiper De-Icer will activate. Exiting Remote Start will resume its previous operation. If the Windshield Wiper De-Icer is active, the timer and operation will continue.

REMOTE START CANCEL MESSAGE

One of the following messages will display in the instrument cluster display if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits Remote Start prematurely:

• Remote Start Canceled — Door Open
• Remote Start Canceled — Hood Open
• Remote Start Canceled — Fuel Low
• Remote Start Canceled — Swing Gate Open
• Remote Start Canceled — Time Expired
• Remote Start Canceled — System Fault
• Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle To Reset

The instrument cluster display message stays active until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED (PHEV Only)

NOTE:
Remote Start while the vehicle is plugged in may not always start the engine.

This system uses the key fob to start the vehicle conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of 328 ft (100 m). Remote Start also activates the Climate Control system in temperatures above 80°F (26.7°C), and the heated seats (if equipped) and heated steering wheel (if equipped) in temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C).
NOTE:
Obstructions between the vehicle and key fob may reduce this range.

HOW TO USE REMOTE START

All of the following conditions must be met before the vehicle will remotely start:

• Gear selector in PARK
• Doors closed
• Hood closed
• Swing gate closed
• Hazard switch off
• The brake switch is inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
• 12 Volt battery at an acceptable charge level
• Key fob Panic button not pushed
• System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
• Vehicle Security system indicator flashing
• Ignition in the OFF position
• Fuel level meets minimum requirement
• All removable doors must not be removed
• Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is off while the vehicle’s propulsion system is active

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.

TO ENTER REMOTE START MODE

Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob twice within five seconds. The vehicle doors will lock, the turn signals will flash twice (if enabled in Uconnect Settings), and the horn will chirp twice (if enabled in Uconnect Settings). Then the engine/vehicle will start, and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15-minute cycle.
NOTE:

• The vehicle can be started two consecutive times (two 15-minute cycles) using the key fob. After two Remote Start events have occurred, the ignition must be placed in the RUN position before any additional Remote Start requests can be received.
• The parking lights 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.

TO EXIT REMOTE START MODE WITHOUT DRIVING THE VEHICLE

Push and release the Remote Start button one time or allow the Remote Start cycle to complete the entire 15-minute cycle.
In addition, the ignition can be placed in the RUN (Pro-pulsion System Available) position by pushing the ignition button with the key fob inside the vehicle and then pushing the ignition button one more time to place the ignition in the OFF position.

NOTE:

• To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will be disabled for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.
• For additional functions of the Remote Start system,

SCHEDULED CABIN CONDITIONING (SCC)

This feature allows the driver to pre-condition (warm-up or cool down) the passenger cabin based on a planned departure time. The target temperature is preset to the same values used by the Remote Start feature. Unlike Remote Start, the driver does not need to initiate the cabin conditioning by pushing the Remote Start button, instead, a programmed departure time will be used. Also, all scheduled cabin conditioning will be powered by the vehicle’s high-voltage battery working in conjunction with any EVSE connected to the vehicle. Unlike Remote Start, in SCC the vehicle’s gas engine will not start to provide power or heat for cabin conditioning. In order to conserve the vehicle’s high-voltage battery power, the driver can choose between allowing the battery to be drained of power down to <1%, or stopping the SCC when the high-voltage battery has been depleted to 25% State Of Charge (SOC). The battery percentages are displayed in the instrument cluster display. A maximum of three independent scheduled event timers are available for use by the SCC feature and Scheduled Charging feature for charging the high-voltage battery. The timers may be used in any combination for SCC and Scheduled Charging, but only three total times are available.

FAQs

Useful Link

View Full PDF: 2024 Jeep Wrangler Owner’s Manual |Auto User Guide

2024 Jeep Wrangler Dashboard Warning and Indicator Lights