Owners of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee often rely on the remote start function to precondition the cabin before a drive, making it frustrating when the system fails to respond. This comprehensive guide addresses the most common reasons your 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee remote start is not working, ranging from simple user errors to complex electrical faults.
Understanding the Remote Start System
The remote start system in the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a sophisticated integration of the key fob, the vehicle's security module, and the engine control unit. When you press the remote start button, the vehicle receives a secure radio signal that commands the computer to start the engine while ensuring the transmission is in Park and the brake pedal is depressed. A failure at any point in this sequence will result in the 2017 jeep grand cherokee remote start not working.
Common User-Related Issues
Before diving into mechanical or electrical diagnostics, it is essential to rule out simple operational mistakes that are often the culprit behind a non-responsive system.
Incorrect Gear Position: The engine will only start if the transmission is firmly in the "P" (Park) position. Attempting to start from "N" (Neutral) or "D" (Drive) will disable the remote start feature.
Safety Brake Engagement: The brake pedal must be pressed and held during the start cycle. If the safety system detects the brake is not engaged, it will shut down the engine immediately after starting.
Battery Drain: If the vehicle has been sitting unused, the key fob battery might be dead, or the vehicle's main battery might be too weak to handle the initial power surge required for starting.
Key Fob and Signal Problems
If the buttons feel unresponsive or the LED is not illuminating, the issue is likely with the key fob itself rather than the vehicle.
Over time, the buttons on the key fob can become worn out or the internal contacts can fail. Additionally, physical damage or exposure to water can corrupt the circuitry. Furthermore, interference from other high-power radio devices or a faulty car antenna can block the signal transmission between the fob and the vehicle's receiver, leading to a situation where the 2017 jeep grand cherokee remote start is not working due to a weak or missing signal.
Security and Alarm System Conflicts
The security system is designed to protect the vehicle, but it can sometimes be overly aggressive, preventing the remote start sequence from initiating.
If the security system is triggered or in "Anti-Theft" mode, it will usually block the remote start command entirely. This often happens if the car door was opened incorrectly or if a key fob was programmed incorrectly. A flashing security light on the dashboard is a clear indicator that the system is actively blocking the start command, which explains why the 2017 jeep grand cherokee remote start is not working.
Electrical and Module Diagnostics
When user error and key fob issues are eliminated, the problem usually resides in the vehicle's electrical system or control modules.
A common technical fault involves the Body Control Module (BCM) or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). These modules manage the remote start command; if their software glitches or their internal relays fail, the signal never reaches the engine. Wiring harnesses, particularly those running to the trunk or under the hood, can suffer from frayed wires or corrosion due to road salt, breaking the circuit and resulting in a 2017 jeep grand cherokee remote start not working situation.
Troubleshooting and Resolution Steps
To resolve the issue efficiently, follow a logical diagnostic process.
