try unhooking the battery for 30 seconds. it may reset it
Smart Key Fail error
Hi guys
My Cherokee Longitude (2016) karked out today.
Door opened fine, but when pressing the Start button, there was no response.
A recall part message on dash relating to steering lock, but that went away.
Then I also get a 'Smart Key Fail' error that seems to be more persistent.
So...steering locked, handbrake on and cannot start the Jeep.
1. Had roadside replace the battery - no change
2. Tried 2xclick to start remotely - no go
3. Tried pressing keyfob against push start button - no go
4. Another spare keyfob doesn't work either
5. Car will lock/unlock. Flashers work. Rear lift will open/close. Emergency flashers will work
Car now towed into Jeep dealer service centre and they tell me that it will be TWO weeks before they can even LOOK at the car. Geez!
Trying to find out what the problem could be and if anyone else has had this issue
Thanks in advance
Clive
My Cherokee Longitude (2016) karked out today.
Door opened fine, but when pressing the Start button, there was no response.
A recall part message on dash relating to steering lock, but that went away.
Then I also get a 'Smart Key Fail' error that seems to be more persistent.
So...steering locked, handbrake on and cannot start the Jeep.
1. Had roadside replace the battery - no change
2. Tried 2xclick to start remotely - no go
3. Tried pressing keyfob against push start button - no go
4. Another spare keyfob doesn't work either
5. Car will lock/unlock. Flashers work. Rear lift will open/close. Emergency flashers will work
Car now towed into Jeep dealer service centre and they tell me that it will be TWO weeks before they can even LOOK at the car. Geez!
Trying to find out what the problem could be and if anyone else has had this issue
Thanks in advance
Clive
1 - 20 of 22 Posts
They changed the car battery or fob battery. stating to think it may be the starter. give the starter a few taps with a hammer and then try starting it. I'm just throwing it out there but couldn't hurt
Does this apply?: 2020 Trailhawk starts but won't stay running. Post #68
Thanks for the input - we THINK we have isolated the problem. Will know 100% for sure next week. Will post update when confirmed.
The final outcome is as follows as reported by Jeep service:
Start/stop ignition not working
'smart key fail error'
REPLACE STEERING COLUMN MODULE
REPLACE BOLT SAFETY LOCK
So it appears that there is a module in/on the steering column that engages, unlocking the steering wheel first before supplying power to the ignition circuit
Total cost of 'module = AU$723 + AU$450 labour
Start/stop ignition not working
'smart key fail error'
REPLACE STEERING COLUMN MODULE
REPLACE BOLT SAFETY LOCK
So it appears that there is a module in/on the steering column that engages, unlocking the steering wheel first before supplying power to the ignition circuit
Total cost of 'module = AU$723 + AU$450 labour
I have the same issue with my 2014 Cherokee but my mechanic has quoted a lot higher. Advised I need a new steering column module ($1300) and receiver hub ($600) plus full day labour so have been quoted $3K....meanwhile car is dead in the water while I wait for parts on back order. Does this sound right? I'm in Canberra.The final outcome is as follows as reported by Jeep service:
Start/stop ignition not working
'smart key fail error'
REPLACE STEERING COLUMN MODULE
REPLACE BOLT SAFETY LOCK
So it appears that there is a module in/on the steering column that engages, unlocking the steering wheel first before supplying power to the ignition circuit
Total cost of 'module = AU$723 + AU$450 labour
Hard to say Michelle. First level diagnostics indicated multiple module failures on my Jeep and (higher price), but I was told a more thorough check will be needed. It may well be that more than one part is needed for your problem.
Here is the part ($US) that was replaced on my Jeep. Chrysler part # 68145593AF
I think you are being ripped off price wise. It sounds opportunistic. You may want to confirm the part number.
Generally you expect a car part to attract a 40% to 50% margin - so cost=AU$350, sell = AU$700. Anything more is a rip-off.
No way should it take a whole day. Sounds like your mechanic has to learn and figure out how to do the job on your dime. My case labour is estimated 4 hours.
That being said, I am not a mechanic and can only go from my past ability with car mechanics and what my experience was with this problem.
Parts availability may be a problem. I was lucky.
If you are stranded car-wise, it may pay you to take thing into your own hands. Call around the country to all Jeep Dealers and ask about the part number (I don't know the part # of the 'receiver hub'). You may get lucky. There has to be a part somewhere in Oz!
One option is to use your research and approach your mechanic. Hopefully, if you have a good relationship with him, he will see reason and compromise.
The other choice is to speak to your local Jeep Dealer (if you have one) and see if it will be worth getting them to do the job. I am usually against taking my cars to authorised dealers as I am not the trusting sort. In my case, it worked out because they had the part and the know-how to do the job. I doubt the average mechanic has the know-how.
Hope that helps
Here is the part ($US) that was replaced on my Jeep. Chrysler part # 68145593AF
2015 Jeep Cherokee Module. Shaft lock - steering column - 68145593AF | Mopar Parts Webstore, Orlando FL
Module. Shaft lock - steering column, steering column. Export. 2015 Jeep Cherokee. Genuine Jeep Part - 68145593AF (68145593AB, 68145593AC, 68145593AD, 68145593AE). Ships from Mopar Parts Webstore, Orlando FL
www.moparpartswebstore.com
Generally you expect a car part to attract a 40% to 50% margin - so cost=AU$350, sell = AU$700. Anything more is a rip-off.
No way should it take a whole day. Sounds like your mechanic has to learn and figure out how to do the job on your dime. My case labour is estimated 4 hours.
That being said, I am not a mechanic and can only go from my past ability with car mechanics and what my experience was with this problem.
Parts availability may be a problem. I was lucky.
If you are stranded car-wise, it may pay you to take thing into your own hands. Call around the country to all Jeep Dealers and ask about the part number (I don't know the part # of the 'receiver hub'). You may get lucky. There has to be a part somewhere in Oz!
One option is to use your research and approach your mechanic. Hopefully, if you have a good relationship with him, he will see reason and compromise.
The other choice is to speak to your local Jeep Dealer (if you have one) and see if it will be worth getting them to do the job. I am usually against taking my cars to authorised dealers as I am not the trusting sort. In my case, it worked out because they had the part and the know-how to do the job. I doubt the average mechanic has the know-how.
Hope that helps
New thought - maybe your mechanic has to buy the steering module from Jeep and they only give him a 20% discount on RRP. So he may be paying $AU600 for the module and selling at $1300 which is (I guess), not absolutely unreasonable in business.
This is through the Jeep dealership unfortunately. I paid $185 for the diagnostic and then they did give me the part numbers #68145593AE and #56046998AK because they don't know how long it will take for the parts to arrive. I'll keep doing some research and call around, I might get lucky and find the parts cheaper. My initial research had these parts considerably cheaper than what I was quoted, which did seem excessive.Hard to say Michelle. First level diagnostics indicated multiple module failures on my Jeep and (higher price), but I was told a more thorough check will be needed. It may well be that more than one part is needed for your problem.
Here is the part ($US) that was replaced on my Jeep. Chrysler part # 68145593AF
I think you are being ripped off price wise. It sounds opportunistic. You may want to confirm the part number.2015 Jeep Cherokee Module. Shaft lock - steering column - 68145593AF | Mopar Parts Webstore, Orlando FL
Module. Shaft lock - steering column, steering column. Export. 2015 Jeep Cherokee. Genuine Jeep Part - 68145593AF (68145593AB, 68145593AC, 68145593AD, 68145593AE). Ships from Mopar Parts Webstore, Orlando FLwww.moparpartswebstore.com
Generally you expect a car part to attract a 40% to 50% margin - so cost=AU$350, sell = AU$700. Anything more is a rip-off.
No way should it take a whole day. Sounds like your mechanic has to learn and figure out how to do the job on your dime. My case labour is estimated 4 hours.
That being said, I am not a mechanic and can only go from my past ability with car mechanics and what my experience was with this problem.
Parts availability may be a problem. I was lucky.
If you are stranded car-wise, it may pay you to take thing into your own hands. Call around the country to all Jeep Dealers and ask about the part number (I don't know the part # of the 'receiver hub'). You may get lucky. There has to be a part somewhere in Oz!
One option is to use your research and approach your mechanic. Hopefully, if you have a good relationship with him, he will see reason and compromise.
The other choice is to speak to your local Jeep Dealer (if you have one) and see if it will be worth getting them to do the job. I am usually against taking my cars to authorised dealers as I am not the trusting sort. In my case, it worked out because they had the part and the know-how to do the job. I doubt the average mechanic has the know-how.
Hope that helps
I did find the part on this site, not sure if I should take a chance and order from them, part is $235.34 (even if that is $USD it is a big difference to the $1300 I was quoted) 68145593AE - Genuine Mopar Module-Steering Column (moparpartsgiant.com)This is through the Jeep dealership unfortunately. I paid $185 for the diagnostic and then they did give me the part numbers #68145593AE and #56046998AK because they don't know how long it will take for the parts to arrive. I'll keep doing some research and call around, I might get lucky and find the parts cheaper. My initial research had these parts considerably cheaper than what I was quoted, which did seem excessive.
$185 for diagnostic is fine. Sure, give it a try to see if you can source. I would clear it with the dealership. There MAY be subtle differences between US and AU versions of a part. Double-check compatibility. If the dealership is happy for you to source, then great. On the other hand, you may find one in AU, even if it's more expensive, at least you can get your car on the road.
And unfortunately, if it is a dealership, you are pretty much tied in to the 'allocated' hours to do the job even it actually takes half the time. Be nice, smile at them, maybe they can negotiate and things will turn out ok.
And unfortunately, if it is a dealership, you are pretty much tied in to the 'allocated' hours to do the job even it actually takes half the time. Be nice, smile at them, maybe they can negotiate and things will turn out ok.
Cherokee kl limited 2014 -- HI Clive, I had the same problem !! :-(Hi guys
My Cherokee Longitude (2016) karked out today.
Door opened fine, but when pressing the Start button, there was no response.
A recall part message on dash relating to steering lock, but that went away.
Then I also get a 'Smart Key Fail' error that seems to be more persistent.
So...steering locked, handbrake on and cannot start the Jeep.
1. Had roadside replace the battery - no change
2. Tried 2xclick to start remotely - no go
3. Tried pressing keyfob against push start button - no go
4. Another spare keyfob doesn't work either
5. Car will lock/unlock. Flashers work. Rear lift will open/close. Emergency flashers will work
Car now towed into Jeep dealer service centre and they tell me that it will be TWO weeks before they can even LOOK at the car. Geez!
Trying to find out what the problem could be and if anyone else has had this issue
Thanks in advance
Clive
the machine is now awaiting diagnosis .... can you post a picture of invoice? to see the partnumber of module? was comprensive of a new key?? thank so mauch! Luca from Italy
Look further up the page: Discussion Starter · #9 · Mar 17, 2022
The part number is shown there as well as following discussions
The part number is shown there as well as following discussions
I had the same problem yesterday my 2014 jeep Cherokee had the same error messages. Ha someone clean the battery terminals and jump started the car and it solved the problem. I will update if it happens again or not.The final outcome is as follows as reported by Jeep service:
Start/stop ignition not working
'smart key fail error'
REPLACE STEERING COLUMN MODULE
REPLACE BOLT SAFETY LOCK
So it appears that there is a module in/on the steering column that engages, unlocking the steering wheel first before supplying power to the ignition circuit
Total cost of 'module = AU$723 + AU$450 labour
I pray it was just a minor issue with my car.
I would probably get the battery tested for free at your friendly neighborhood auto parts store. Could be an early sign of battery starting to fail...😎I had the same problem yesterday my 2014 jeep Cherokee had the same error messages. Ha someone clean the battery terminals and jump started the car and it solved the problem. I will update if it happens again or not.
I pray it was just a minor issue with my car.
Hi guys
My Cherokee Longitude (2016) karked out today.
Door opened fine, but when pressing the Start button, there was no response.
A recall part message on dash relating to steering lock, but that went away.
Then I also get a 'Smart Key Fail' error that seems to be more persistent.
So...steering locked, handbrake on and cannot start the Jeep.
1. Had roadside replace the battery - no change
2. Tried 2xclick to start remotely - no go
3. Tried pressing keyfob against push start button - no go
4. Another spare keyfob doesn't work either
5. Car will lock/unlock. Flashers work. Rear lift will open/close. Emergency flashers will work
Car now towed into Jeep dealer service centre and they tell me that it will be TWO weeks before they can even LOOK at the car. Geez!
Trying to find out what the problem could be and if anyone else has had this issue
Thanks in advance
Clive
I think so too. Will do soI would probably get the battery tested for free at your friendly neighborhood auto parts store. Could be an early sign of battery starting to fail...😎
Update: my parts have finally arrived...ordered in March and it's now September! Car was towed to dealership and waiting to find out the final cost.I have the same issue with my 2014 Cherokee but my mechanic has quoted a lot higher. Advised I need a new steering column module ($1300) and receiver hub ($600) plus full day labour so have been quoted $3K....meanwhile car is dead in the water while I wait for parts on back order. Does this sound right? I'm in Canberra.
My car has been unable to start the engine due to a smart key fail error.
I am looking for parts in various places to replace the module (68145593AF), but it seems that they are no longer available, so the parts order was canceled in the United States.
It seems that Japanese dealers had 6 units in stock until last month, but they are currently being treated as backorders.
Does anyone know why this part has been discontinued?
Do you have any information on the flaws found in this module?
I am looking for parts in various places to replace the module (68145593AF), but it seems that they are no longer available, so the parts order was canceled in the United States.
It seems that Japanese dealers had 6 units in stock until last month, but they are currently being treated as backorders.
Does anyone know why this part has been discontinued?
Do you have any information on the flaws found in this module?
1 - 20 of 22 Posts
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