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2022 Pacifica Pinnacle "Key Fob Not Detected" and Remote Start Issues

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:24 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle

My 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle has been giving me grief with its key fob. Lately, I frequently get a "Key Fob Not Detected" message on the dash, even when the fob is right there in the cup holder or my pocket. This makes it impossible to start the car sometimes without placing the fob directly on the start button.

Also, the remote start feature has become very unreliable. It works sometimes, but often it just flashes the lights and doesn't start the engine. I've tried changing the battery in the fob, but that didn't seem to help. Is this a common problem with the newer Pacificas? What could be causing this?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:24 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

"Key Fob Not Detected" messages and unreliable remote start are common issues that can stem from several electrical and electronic causes in modern vehicles like your 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle.

  1. Key Fob Battery: While you've changed it, ensure it was a fresh, high-quality CR2032 battery and installed correctly. A weak battery, even if new, can cause intermittent issues.
  2. RF Interference: Electronic interference can disrupt the signal between your key fob and the vehicle's receiver. Try testing the fob in different locations, away from large metal objects, power lines, or strong Wi-Fi signals. Other devices in your car (dash cams, phone chargers, radar detectors) could also be causing interference.
  3. Vehicle Battery Voltage: A low 12V vehicle battery, even if it can still start the engine, can sometimes cause issues with sensitive electronic systems like key fob detection and remote start. Have your main vehicle battery tested.
  4. Key Fob Itself: The fob itself might be faulty. If you have a second fob, try using it exclusively for a few days to see if the problem persists. If the second fob works flawlessly, your primary fob may need replacement or repair.
  5. WIN Module / RF Hub: The Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) module, also known as the RF Hub in newer vehicles, is responsible for receiving the key fob's signal. A fault in this module can cause these symptoms. This typically requires dealer-level diagnostics.

Common Causes:

  • Weak key fob battery (even if recently replaced).
  • Radio frequency interference.
  • Faulty key fob.
  • Low vehicle battery voltage.
  • Issue with the vehicle's RF receiver module (RF Hub/WIN).

When to See a Shop: If trying a new, verified good key fob battery, checking for interference, and ensuring your vehicle's main battery is strong doesn't resolve the issue, it's highly recommended to take your Pacifica to a Chrysler dealership. They have specialized diagnostic tools (like WiTech) that can read codes from the RF Hub and other body control modules (which might not show up as generic OBD-II codes) to pinpoint the exact cause. They can also reprogram key fobs or replace faulty RF Hubs if necessary.

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