Owners of the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee often rely on the remote start function to precondition the cabin on a hot summer day or a cold winter morning. When this convenient feature suddenly stops working, it disrupts the daily routine and raises immediate concerns about the vehicle’s security and convenience systems. Diagnosing a non-responsive remote start requires a systematic approach, as the potential causes range from a simple dead key fob battery to a complex communication error within the vehicle’s computer network.
Understanding the Remote Start System
The remote start system in the 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee is not a standalone device; it is an integrated component of the vehicle’s broader security and access network. When the button on the key fob is pressed, the signal is transmitted to the Body Control Module (BCM) and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). These modules communicate with the Smart Junction Box (SJB) to verify the key fob’s authenticity and ensure the vehicle is in a valid state for starting. If any link in this communication chain fails, the engine will not turn on, even though the doors may still lock and unlock normally.
Common Culprits: Key Fob and Battery Issues
The most frequent reason for remote start failure is often the simplest one to address. The key fob battery may have depleted to the point where the signal is too weak to reach the vehicle’s receiver antenna. Alternatively, the fob itself could be damaged due to physical impact or water exposure. Jeep specifically designed the Grand Cherokee to accept a backup mechanical key, which can be used to manually unlock the door; however, this key does not contain the necessary transmitter chip to initiate the remote start sequence. Verifying the fob’s battery strength and physical integrity is always the logical first step in troubleshooting.
Electrical and Security System Conflicts
Beyond the fob, the health of the vehicle’s electrical system plays a critical role. A weak or failing battery, corroded terminals, or a loose ground connection can prevent the necessary voltage surge required to crank the engine. The 2017 Grand Cherokee’s security system is designed to prevent theft; if the system enters an anti-theft mode due to a glitch or a fault, it will disable the remote start as a safety precaution. In such cases, the instrument cluster often displays a security icon or a message indicating the system has been disabled.
Environmental and Usage Factors
Environmental conditions can also interfere with the remote start process. Dense foliage, parking garages, or large metallic structures can obstruct the line-of-sight radio frequency (RF) signal between the fob and the vehicle. Furthermore, attempting to start the vehicle in "Park" when the transmission selector is actually in a different position, or having the brake pedal pressed insufficiently, will cause the start sequence to abort. The vehicle’s computer requires precise parameters to be met before it authorizes the starter motor to engage.
When basic checks fail to resolve the issue, a diagnostic scan tool becomes essential. This device plugs into the vehicle’s data link connector and retrieves stored trouble codes (DTCs) from the BCM, PCM, and SJB. These codes provide specific guidance regarding communication losses or voltage irregularities. While some owners may choose to visit a dealer for this step, an experienced independent mechanic can often perform the same diagnostics at a lower cost, accessing the Jeep-specific software needed to interpret the codes accurately.
