Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Grand Cherokee 1999-2004: How to Program Key Fob

Your key fob allows you to gain access to your vehicle with the click of a button. Here's how to program your key fob today.

By Charlie Gaston - August 26, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Grand Cherokee (1999-2004).

The key fob to your Jeep Grand Cherokee allows you to gain faster and immediate entry to, as well as lock, your vehicle with just the quick click of a button. Your key fob can also be used to signal an emergency, should you become panicked and require immediate assistance. If you've just purchased a new key fob, you'll need to program it if it hasn't been programmed already. The process is easy. This guide will explain the two simple methods you can use to program your key fob in a matter of minutes.

Materials Needed

  • Fresh 3 volt battery
  • Key fob

Step 1 – Perform method "A"

  • Press the "lock" button five times, allowing no more than two seconds to lapse between each time you press the button.
  • Turn on your ignition.
  • Press and hold the "unlock" button for up to 10 seconds. Before this 10 second period ends, press and hold the "panic" button for 1 second.
  • Release the "unlock" and "panic" buttons.
  • Listen for a chime sound, which should resonate within three seconds of releasing the two previous buttons.
  • Press and release the "lock" and "unlock" buttons simultaneously.
  • Press and release any button of your choosing, and then wait for the sound of a quick chime to occur.
  • The programming is now complete, and you are ready to begin using your transmitter.
  • Turn your ignition off.
Figure 1. Your key fob allows you to gain access to your vehicle doors.

Pro Tip

Before getting started, it's recommended that you put a fresh battery inside your key fob to ensure the key fob is able to both receive and emit a strong signal.

Step 2 – Perform method "B"

  • Press and release the "lock" button in two-second intervals. Do this five times.
  • Turn the ignition on.
  • Press and hold the "unlock" button for up to 10 seconds.
  • Hold the "unlock" button, while pressing the "panic" button. Listen for the sound of a chime, which should sound within three seconds.
  • Complete the process by programming a button into the system. Listen for the sound of another chime.
  • Exit the programming mode by turning the ignition off.

Step 3 – Visit local Jeep dealer

Make an appointment to have your local Jeep dealer program your key fob, if you are unable to complete the programming process on your own. At approximately $150-$300 (depending on if you need a new key fob or just programming), the cost for your local Jeep dealer to program your key fob is high. If you do go this route, it's recommended that you make an appointment for faster service.

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