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2022 Outlander Sport - Key Fob Not Detected, Won't Start

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:09 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport LE

My 2022 Outlander Sport LE with push-button start suddenly won't start. The dashboard shows a "Key Fob Not Detected" message, even when the fob is right in my hand inside the car. I tried replacing the battery in the key fob, but no luck.

I can manually unlock the door with the physical key, but pressing the start button does nothing. Is there a specific spot to hold the fob to get it to recognize, or could this be an immobilizer issue? I'm stuck!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:09 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a "Key Fob Not Detected" message when your car won't start is a common and frustrating issue with push-button start systems. Since you've already replaced the fob battery, that's a great first step. The problem likely lies with the car's ability to communicate with the fob.

Here's what to check and try:

  1. Emergency Start Procedure: Mitsubishi vehicles with push-button start often have an emergency override. Try holding the key fob directly against the start button when you press it. This allows the car to read the fob's transponder chip via a closer proximity antenna, bypassing potential weak signal issues.
  2. Check Vehicle's 12V Battery: Even if the fob battery is new, a weak or dead 12V car battery can cause all sorts of electrical gremlins, including issues with key fob detection and starting. Test your car's main battery or try to jump-start the vehicle. If it starts with a jump, the car battery is the likely culprit.
  3. Try a Spare Key Fob: If you have a second key fob, try using it. If the spare works, it suggests an issue with your primary fob (even with a new battery, the fob itself could be faulty).
  4. Check for RF Interference: Sometimes, strong radio frequency interference from nearby devices (e.g., cell towers, power lines, or even other electronic devices in your car) can temporarily block the fob's signal.
  5. Immobilizer System Issues: The "Key Fob Not Detected" message is directly related to the immobilizer system. If the car's immobilizer control unit or its antennas (which detect the fob's signal) are failing, it won't allow the car to start.

When to See a Shop: If the emergency start procedure doesn't work, and you've ruled out a dead car battery and a faulty fob (by trying a spare), then it's time to get your 2022 Outlander Sport to a Mitsubishi dealership. They have specialized diagnostic tools to check the Smart Key ECU, immobilizer system, and the various antennas responsible for detecting the key fob. This type of issue often requires professional diagnosis and potentially replacement of a module.

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