Hi All,

So a few days ago one of my key fobs stopped working on my 99 XJ. I figured the battery went dead as the other key fob still worked. Then less than a week later the other key fob stopped working. Both key fobs I assume are OEM as I received both in 2009 from PO when I bought the jeep.

I am thinking it would have to be the receiver malfunctioning. It would be quite a coincidence for both fobs to stop working a week apart after using them for 14 years with no problems and no battery changes. But there was this week where one worked and they other didn’t. Maybe just a stronger signal from a slightly better battery? Until the receiver went out?

I was wondering where the key fob receiver is? I already think I am in need for a new driver switch assembly as my window lock bottom is intermittent as sometimes passengers can’t use their window switch. The driver lock and unlock switch sometimes doesn’t work too. Could this be the culprit for the key fobs now?

Thanks,
HCL

 

The receiver is in the dome light.

 

I have had to change batteries in XJ key fobs

fault finding logic dictates you would buy at least one new battery and try it in each key

They only cost a few $

 

Um, this is where I would start.

If the lock buttons move a little, but not enough to lock/unlock, then you need to clean and lube the lock mechanisms. If they don't move at all, could be a wiring issue. A common problem area is where the harness passes through the door and into the body behind the kick panels.

 

Like Veeb said, It's in the dome light.

I would install 2 new batteries in the fobs, Take a look at the receiver for anything burned/water damage etc. blow the dust out of it.

 

Before switching out the driver switch assembly, make sure you research well.

It's been a while since I replaced mine, but if I recall... the passenger side is basically the brains of the system.

 

Went and got batteries and replaced them in both fobs and they started working again! I was definitely overthinking it, haha. But I’m still surprised they both went dead the same week.

 

sometimes it really just is the simple solution.

 

good result

I was a tech for years. Without even looking, I know the FSM would have as its 1st step in the diagnostic tree

"Test/Replace the key fob batteries"

 

Test the new batteries! Buying small lithium batteries off Amazon is a crap shoot, and a 50/50 shot of them being DOA.

 

VERY TRUE.

I am pretty much at a loss when it comes to finding decent "coin type" batteries... Even the Brand name batteries on Amazon seem to **** off in a few months ... sometimes less.
I've got wireless alarm sensors on the windows and doors.... seems like I'm replacing one of them every time I turn around..

I just buy the 20 pack and hope for the best....
Complete joke.

 

Sooo many fake batteries on Amazon. The issue with Shipped By Amazon parts, is that Amazon has a common bin for all the sellers and they don't have the resources to police which vendor is restocking with counterfeits. At least Amazon doesn't question refunds for them.

For the last batteries I ordered for work (SAFT 1/2 AA 14250 batteries), I tracked down the list of authorized sellers, and bought from them. It cost about 2x as much, but they're used in an application where a bad battery causes major issues.

 

dont get me started

if you look on eBay for instance for Milwaukee power tool batteries, you must search for "genuine"...now they have even started listing the fakes under that category!

They cost 1/3rd the price but last much less than 1/3rd the life of a genuine one

I only got caught once

 

How ironic....
This is what I woke up to this morning..

 

fwiw, I've learned never to bother to replace fob batteries because while the originals may last 15+ years, the 1st replacement might last a month, the 2nd replacement won't work at all. Might as well get a nice leather fob with a Jeep medallion on it have done with it.

Of course the fact I think they're a cheap gimmick that serve no real purpose & rarely lock any of my vehicles anyway helps

.