Signs of a low Wrangler key fob battery

According to the manual, a low key fob battery may be shown by a message in the instrument cluster display or by the LED light on the key fob. If the fob's LED no longer lights up when you push the fob buttons, the key fob battery needs to be replaced.

The manual also says that if the ignition switch does not change position when you push the button, the key fob may have a low or fully depleted battery.

From the 2026 Jeep Wrangler owner's manual (Key Fob; Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob), read November 5, 2026.

Replacing the Wrangler key fob battery

The manual lists these steps for replacing the battery:

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, taking care not to damage the seal, then work counterclockwise to pry the remaining snaps until the battery cover comes off.
2. Remove the depleted battery by inserting a small flat-blade screwdriver into the battery removal slot and sliding the battery forward and up, taking care not to damage the electronic board underneath.
3. Install the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up, and slide it 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.

From the 2026 Jeep Wrangler owner's manual (Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob), read November 5, 2026.

What the manual says to watch for

The manual recommends a battery obtained from Mopar, because aftermarket coin battery dimensions may not match the original equipment battery. It also says not to touch the battery terminals on the back housing or the printed circuit board.

The manual notes that improper disposal of key fob batteries may be harmful to the environment and asks you to see an authorized dealer for proper battery disposal. It also advises keeping the fob out of direct sunlight and away from strong electrical shocks, which may damage the electronics inside.

From the 2026 Jeep Wrangler owner's manual (Key Fob; Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob), read November 5, 2026.

Starting a Wrangler with a low fob battery

On a Wrangler with the START/STOP ignition button, the manual says the key fob may have a low or depleted battery if the ignition does not change when you push the button. As a backup, put the nose side of the key fob (the side with the mechanical flip key) against the START/STOP ignition button and push to operate the ignition.

See our Wrangler remote start guide and Wrangler warning lights guide for more.

From the 2026 Jeep Wrangler owner's manual (Keyless Enter 'n Go: Ignition, Backup Starting Method), read November 5, 2026.

Wrangler service at Elgin CDJR

Want us to handle it? Bring your fob to our Jeep service center, or see the new Jeep Wrangler and the Wrangler Rubicon. Schedule service or see our service specials.

Our service department is open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed Sunday. Elgin CDJR is at 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood. Get directions.