Where Is the Emergency Key Slot on a 2017 Dodge Journey
The 2017 Dodge Journey emergency key slot is hidden near the steering column area, underneath the steering column cover. This backup method lets you start the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead or the smart key system fails. Knowing this hidden key slot location can save you from a frustrating roadside situation and keep your day on track.
This is a comprehensive guide about 2017 dodge journey where is the emergency key slot to start it.
Key Takeaways
- Hidden Location: The emergency key slot on a 2017 Dodge Journey is tucked under the steering column cover, near the ignition area.
- Simple Access: You need to remove a small cover panel to reveal the slot and insert the mechanical key blade.
- Backup Essential: This method works when the key fob battery dies or the smart key system malfunctions.
- Easy to Use: Once you find the slot, starting the car is straightforward and takes only a few seconds.
- Preventive Tip: Keep a spare key fob battery on hand to avoid getting stranded.
- Owner Manual Reference: Always check your Dodge Journey owner manual for model-specific details and diagrams.
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There is nothing more annoying than standing next to your truck, ready to go, and realizing the key fob is not working. You press the button. Nothing happens. You press it again. Still nothing. If you own a 2017 Dodge Journey, there is a simple solution hiding in plain sight. The vehicle has an emergency key slot built right into the steering column. Once you know where it is, you will never be stuck again.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the 2017 Dodge Journey emergency key slot. We will cover exactly where it is located, how to access it, and why it matters. We will also share practical tips to prevent this situation from happening in the first place. Whether your key fob battery died or the smart key system is acting up, you are in the right place.
Many drivers do not even know this backup feature exists. It is tucked away under a small cover panel, and you would never notice it unless someone pointed it out. But once you find it, it becomes second nature. Let us dive in and explore the Dodge Journey ignition system and how the emergency slot fits into the bigger picture.
Understanding the 2017 Dodge Journey Key System
The 2017 Dodge Journey uses a smart key system with push-button start. This means you do not need to physically insert a key into the ignition. Instead, the vehicle detects the key fob inside the cabin and allows you to start the engine with the press of a button. It is a convenient system that most drivers love.
However, like all electronic systems, it can fail. The most common reason is a dead key fob battery. When the battery drops below a certain level, the fob can no longer communicate with the car. The start button will not respond, and you are left standing outside your vehicle. This is where the emergency key slot becomes your best friend.
How the Smart Key System Works
The smart key system relies on a small radio signal between the fob and the car. The fob sends a low-frequency signal that the car picks up through antennas placed around the cabin. When the system detects the fob is inside the vehicle, it allows you to start the engine. This is called keyless entry and keyless start.
But what happens when that signal breaks? The Dodge Journey troubleshooting process is simpler than you think. The car designers always included a mechanical backup. That backup is the emergency key slot. It bypasses the electronic system entirely and connects directly to the ignition switch.
Where Is the Emergency Key Slot on a 2017 Dodge Journey?
The emergency key slot on a 2017 Dodge Journey is located beneath the steering column cover. It is not visible from the outside. You need to remove or pop off a small plastic panel to reveal it. The slot sits near the traditional ignition cylinder area, even though the 2017 Journey uses a push-button start system.
Here is how to find it step by step:
- Stand in front of the steering wheel and look straight at the column.
- Notice the plastic cover that runs along the lower part of the steering column.
- On the 2017 Dodge Journey, there is a small removable panel on the lower left side of the column.
- Gently pry off this panel using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Behind the panel, you will see the emergency key slot.
The slot is designed to accept the mechanical key blade from your key fob. Most people do not realize their key fob contains a hidden key blade that slides out. This is the physical key you will need to insert into the slot. Without this blade, you cannot use the emergency start method.
What the Emergency Key Slot Looks Like
The slot itself is a small, round opening. It looks very similar to a traditional ignition key hole, but it is smaller and sits lower on the steering column. The design is intentional. It is hidden to keep the clean, modern look of the dashboard while still providing a reliable backup. If you have ever wondered why there is a small gap or seam on the lower steering column, that is where the slot is hidden.
Think of it as a hidden key slot that only reveals itself when you need it. It is one of those smart design choices that car makers include but rarely advertise. Once you know it is there, it makes perfect sense.
How to Use the Emergency Key Slot to Start the 2017 Dodge Journey
Using the emergency key slot is straightforward once you have the panel off and the key blade ready. Follow these steps carefully, and your Dodge Journey will start right up.
- Remove the steering column cover panel by gently prying it off.
- Slide the mechanical key blade out of your key fob.
- Insert the key blade into the emergency key slot.
- Turn the key blade to the right, just like a traditional ignition.
- The dashboard lights should come on, indicating the system is powered.
- Press the push-button start while holding the brake pedal.
- The engine should start normally.
That is it. The entire process takes less than 30 seconds once you have done it a couple of times. The key blade turns the ignition switch mechanically, which tells the car to power on the electrical systems. From there, the push-button start works just like it normally would.
Many drivers worry that using the emergency slot might damage something. It will not. This is a built-in feature designed by the engineers at Dodge specifically for situations like a dead key fob battery. The system handles this method every single time.
Common Mistakes When Using the Emergency Key Slot
- Forcing the cover panel off instead of gently prying it. The clips are fragile and can break.
- Not fully extending the key blade before inserting it. The blade needs to be completely out.
- Pressing the start button without holding the brake pedal. The brake must be pressed for safety.
- Trying to start the car with the fob still in the car. Remove the fob first to avoid confusion.
- Forgetting to replace the steering column cover after starting. This can lead to debris entering the slot area.
Why Does the Key Fob Battery Die on a 2017 Dodge Journey?
The key fob battery in a 2017 Dodge Journey typically lasts between two and four years. However, several factors can shorten that lifespan. Cold weather is the biggest culprit. When temperatures drop, battery power decreases significantly. If you live in a colder climate, you may notice the fob struggling more during winter months.
Other reasons include:
- The fob is dropped or damaged, causing internal battery contact issues.
- The fob is stored near electronic devices that drain the battery slowly.
- The battery itself is low quality or past its expiration date.
- The fob is used excessively, such as pressing buttons hundreds of times per day.
- Moisture gets inside the fob and corrodes the battery contacts.
The good news is that replacing the battery is easy and inexpensive. Most Dodge Journey key fobs use a CR2032 battery, which you can find at any grocery store or gas station for under five dollars. If you have experienced a key fob battery dead situation before, keeping a spare battery in your glove box is a smart move.
Tips to Prevent Being Locked Out of Your 2017 Dodge Journey
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid the situation where you need the emergency key slot:
- Replace the fob battery every two years: Do not wait until it dies. Set a calendar reminder.
- Carry a spare key fob: Keep a second fob in your home or office.
- Store the fob properly: Avoid placing it near phones, laptops, or other electronic devices.
- Check the fob regularly: If you notice the range getting shorter, replace the battery immediately.
- Keep the mechanical key blade accessible: Make sure you know how to slide it out of the fob quickly.
- Read your owner manual: The Dodge Journey owner manual has specific diagrams and instructions for the emergency slot.
These simple habits can save you a lot of stress. And if you ever do find yourself in a bind, you now know exactly how to handle it.
How the Emergency Key Slot Compares to Other Dodge Models
The emergency key slot concept is not unique to the 2017 Dodge Journey. Many modern vehicles from different manufacturers include a similar backup system. For example, some Ram pickups also offer an emergency key method for starting the vehicle. The idea is the same across brands. Electronic systems can fail, so a mechanical backup is always included.
| Vehicle | Key Start Method | Emergency Slot Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 Dodge Journey | Push-button with smart key | Under steering column cover |
| Ram Pickup (various) | Push-button with smart key | Under steering column or console |
| Most modern Fords | Push-button with smart key | Near ignition cylinder area |
| Toyota models | Push-button with smart key | Under steering column cover |
The location may vary slightly between models, but the concept remains the same. Every push-button start vehicle needs a way to start mechanically. The 2017 Dodge Journey handles this with a clean, accessible design under the steering column.
When to Seek Professional Help
Most of the time, using the emergency key slot solves the problem quickly. But there are situations where you should call a professional. If the key blade does not fit into the slot, do not force it. The slot may be damaged or the key blade may be bent. A certified Dodge mechanic can inspect the ignition switch and steering column area for any issues.
Also, if you find yourself needing the emergency slot frequently, that is a sign your key fob may need replacement rather than just a new battery. The smart key system components can wear out over time, and a mechanic can diagnose whether the fob or the car’s receiver needs service.
Conclusion
The 2017 Dodge Journey emergency key slot is a simple yet incredibly useful feature. It sits hidden under the steering column cover, waiting for the moment you need it most. Whether your key fob battery died or the smart key system is not responding, this backup method gets you back on the road in seconds.
Knowing where it is and how to use it gives you confidence and peace of mind. You no longer have to worry about being stranded because of a dead fob. Keep a spare battery handy, store your mechanical key blade access method in mind, and you will always be prepared. The Dodge Journey was designed with your convenience in mind, and the emergency key slot is proof of that thoughtful engineering.
Take a moment today to locate the slot on your own vehicle. Pop off the panel, insert the key blade, and familiarize yourself with the process. It takes less than a minute, and it could save you a great deal of trouble down the road. If you ever find yourself locked out, remember that help is just a steering column cover away.
If you are dealing with starting issues beyond just the key slot, check out our guide on how to start a car without a key for additional methods that work across different vehicle models. Similarly, if you have dealt with using an emergency key on other vehicles, our article on using an emergency key to start a vehicle offers helpful comparisons. And if your fob battery died and you need to get back in, our piece on opening your car when the fob battery is dead has you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the emergency key slot on a 2017 Dodge Journey?
The emergency key slot is a mechanical backup slot hidden under the steering column cover. It allows you to start the vehicle using the key blade from your key fob when the smart key system or push-button start is not working.
Where exactly is the emergency key slot located?
The slot is located beneath the steering column, behind a small removable plastic panel on the lower left side of the column. You need to pop off the panel to reveal the slot where the mechanical key blade goes.
Can I start my 2017 Dodge Journey without the key fob?
Yes. You can use the emergency key slot with the mechanical key blade from your fob. Insert the blade into the slot, turn it to the right, and then press the push-button start while holding the brake pedal.
What type of key blade does the 2017 Dodge Journey use?
The key fob for the 2017 Dodge Journey contains a retractable metal key blade. You slide a button on the fob to release the blade. This blade is what you insert into the emergency key slot.
How do I prevent my key fob from dying unexpectedly?
Replace the fob battery every two years, even if it still works. Keep a spare battery in your glove box. Avoid storing the fob near electronic devices or in cold temperatures for extended periods. If you notice the range getting shorter, replace the battery immediately.
Is it safe to use the emergency key slot regularly?
Yes, it is completely safe. The emergency key slot is a factory-designed backup feature. Using it regularly will not damage the ignition switch or any other components. It is built to handle repeated use just like a traditional key ignition.
