Why Is Your Jeep Touch Screen is Not Working?

Many Jeep models are equipped with the Unconnect system, which provides many conveniences such as navigation and entertainment. In addition, this is usually where you are able to see the view from the backup camera. Because of this, the Jeep touch screen not working can be very frustrating and inconvenient. 

If your Jeep’s touch screen is freezing, black, or not working at all, it’s most likely related to Unconnect software currently installed on the system. In most cases, a simple update will solve the problem. However, these touchscreen problems can also be caused by electrical issues, a blown fuse, or physical damage to the screen. 

While you may need to replace the touch screen, there are several simpler and less expensive solutions. Below you will find an in-depth look at the different things that can cause the issues. In addition, we will cover the best solutions for these issues to help you avoid unnecessary repairs. 

Jeep Touch Screen Problems and Troubleshooting 

If the touch screen in your jeep is not working, a few common things usually cause this issue. Knowing the most common reasons can make it much easier to pinpoint exactly what is causing the problem.

The most common cause involves the UConnect software. 

Software Glitch

The UConnect touchscreen radio has a widely experienced issue with software glitches. When the software glitches, you may experience several problems with your radio. 

You may notice issues with your Bluetooth connectivity, delayed response to touch, or the screen not working at all. 

Short Circuit

Another thing that may cause the screen not to work is a short circuit. A short circuit is usually caused by a faulty wire that allows the electrical current to flow incorrectly. 

Diagnosing and fixing this issue can be a bit complex, so it could require having a professional repair. 

Disconnected Power Cable

It could also cause a problem if the power cable is disconnected from the back of the radio. It’s also possible that the power cord could be damaged. 

When this happens, the screen will not be lit because the unit isn’t receiving a flow of electricity there. 

Physical Damage to Screen

If the issue is not related to the software of the electrical components of the radio, the problems could be related to physical damage. 

Water damage is the most common physical damage that causes the radio not to work. However, it can also occur if something accidentally makes a severe impact on the screen. 

Blown Out Fuse

Another reason your touchscreen may not work is a blown fuse. The fuses hold several essential functions, including protecting the radio from damage. 

Faulty operations within the system will cause a fuse to blow. Some things may not work correctly when this happens until you replace the fuse. 

Troubleshooting

Disconnecting Negative Terminal

In most cases, resetting the system will fix the issue. The most effective method is complete a hard reset. A hard reset will remove stored charges and allow the system a fresh start when reconnected. 

To do this:

1. Raise the hood on your Jeep. 
2. Locate the negative terminal connected to the battery. 
3. Remove the negative terminal and leave it disconnected for at least 5 minutes. 
4. After 5 minutes, reconnect the cable and turn the car on.

When you turn the car back on, the radio will reset, and it should work correctly. If not, you may need to remove the pen drive if you have one connected.  

Remove the Pen Drive

If you have a pen drive plugged into the radio with a good bit of music loaded to it, it could be creating the issue. This can happen when the drive you’re using is almost full and the UConnect system is struggling to load all the content. 

It’s easy to determine whether the pen drive is creating the problem by unplugging it. If the system works better when unplugged, the drive is most likely causing the problem. 

If this is your issue, removing the drive and clearing some of the space may solve the problem. So, to fix the issue: 

1. Unplug the pen drive from the system. 
2. Plug the drive into the computer and remove some of the files that are stored on the drive. 
3. Then, plug your drive back into the system. 
4. Test to see if the issue persists. 

Reset the Jeep Compass Touch Screen

If your Jeep Compass touch screen isn’t working at all, resetting the system settings often fixes the issue. 

To reset the Jeep Compass touch screen, follow the steps below:

1. Before you begin, you’ll need to put your car in park and ensure that it is in “run mode.”
2. Tap Vehicle Settings at the bottom of the screen. 
3. Open your UConnect settings and go tap Reset. 
4. When you see the list of options, choose Reset Settings to Default. Tap Yes to confirm. 
5. Next, locate and select Clear Personal Data. This will also ask you to tap Yes to confirm the action. 

If you need to try this fix, but your screen won’t light up at all, you can sometimes light the screen by making a phone call while your car is running. However, this will only work if you have previously connected the devices via Bluetooth. 

Reset Uconnect System Using Hardware Buttons

If you cannot get the screen to work, you can perform the reset using the system hardware buttons in your Jeep. 

To reset your Uconnect system with these buttons:

1. Place your Jeep in Accessories mode by pressing the Start/Stop button without pressing the brake pedal. 
2. Depending on the model, you’ll need to press either the volume up or volume down button, along with the round Enter button located between the volume buttons. (For some models, the button combination to reset is the Phone and Voice Command buttons instead.)
3. Hold these two buttons down for about 15 seconds. 
4. After you release these buttons, press the Start/Stop button to turn the car completely off.
5. Open the driver’s side door for approximately 30 seconds. 
6. Turn the car back on.

When the radio comes back on, the issue should be resolved. If not, you may need to update the software. 

Update the Uconnect Software

Updating the software on your Jeep’s Uconnect system can fix many problems you may be experiencing. This is because older software can sometimes end up with bugs that cause the Uconnect to glitch. 

To update your Jeep’s Uconnect software:

1. Go to the official Uconnect website and enter your VIN into the search bar. 
2. If there’s an update available, right-click on the download link and select save the file as a ZIP file. If multiple updates are available, you’ll have several sub-folders in this file. 
3. If there’s only one update, open it and move the file to a flash drive. If there are multiple, you will need to repeat the process for each one individually. 
4. Once the file is on the flash drive, unplug any other drives from your Jeep and plug the flash drive into the USB port. This port is likely in the compartment in front of the gear shifter. 
5. The update will upload. Once it uploads, turn your car off and back on to complete the process. 

Unplug and Replug the Fuses

If updating the software for your Uconnect system doesn’t help, it could be an electrical issue. In most cases, these issues result from a fuse that has blown or wiggled loose. 

To check this, carefully unplug each fuse and ensure they are plugged back in all the way. 

While doing this, check to see if the fuses are bad. There’s a good chance a blown fuse could be the issue, especially if the screen doesn’t come on at all. 

Most importantly, check the clear, 25 Amp fuse (F02) to see if it’s blown. Many owners who have experienced this issue were able to fix it by replacing this fuse. Unfortunately, it’s common for this fuse to blow in many Jeep models. 

If you do not find an issue with any of the fuses, it could be an issue with the system’s firmware. 

Firmware Upgrade

While the software helps to run the interface that you directly interact with on your Uconnect system, the firmware ensures that the hardware in the system functions correctly. 

You may be able to find a copy of the firmware online and install it similarly to how you updated the software. However, it’s best to have the dealership upgrade the firmware to avoid running into more severe issues with the system. 

Replacing the Screen

If the solutions above have not fixed your Jeep’s Uconnect touchscreen, you may need to replace the screen. The simplest solution is to have a professional repair the screen. However, these repairs can cost up to $1200. 

If you’d rather replace it yourself, you can do so by following the steps below:

1. Carefully remove the plastic cover surrounding your radio. It’s best to use plastic trim removal tools. 
2. Next, remove the screws holding the screen in place and pull it forward. 
3. Disconnect the wiring harnesses from the back of the system. 
4. Remove the old screen and replace it with the new one. The video below provides a detailed look at how to do this. 

Uconnect Black Screen Problem 

One of the most common issues with the Uconnect system is the screen going black. In some cases, the screen may not come back on. 

If you experience this, rebooting the system could be a simple solution to the problem. In most Jeep models, you can do this by holding the phone and voice command buttons for 15 seconds. 

However, in most cases, this results from a software error. If the software is the issue, you should check to see if an update is available for your Uconnect. 

If not, your local dealership may be able to update the software for you. 

Jeep Grand Cherokee Screen Frozen

Another common issue with the Jeep’s Uconnect system is a frozen screen. 

In most cases, the screen freezes when the jeep is in reverse and the screen remains unresponsive. However, this sometimes happens randomly, without the car being in reverse. Some owners also experience random reboots that end in a blank screen. 

Rebooting the radio will usually resolve the issue. The exact key combination to reboot the system will vary depending on the model of your jeep. 

However, you should check for a software update if the screen is regularly freezing. Updating the software will likely fix the glitch. 

What Issues Typically Revolve Around the Uconnect?

The most common Uconnect issues include:

• A frozen or unresponsive screen
• The screen stays black/won’t light up
• Bluetooth connectivity issues
• GPS stops functioning correctly 
• The backup camera doesn’t come on 

These issues can usually be resolved with a hard reset or updating the Uconnect software. 

Do You Need to Replace the Touch Screen?

If your screen does not light up at all, you will likely need to replace the touch screen. However, before replacing the screen, you should try a hard reset. 

The best way to reset your Jeep’s Uconnect is to disconnect the ground/negative terminal for at least five minutes. 

What Is the Cost of The Touch Screen Replacement? 

The cost to replace the Uconnect touchscreen in your Jeep will vary based on several factors. The largest determining factor is whether you plan to replace it or have the repair done professionally. 

If you replace the screen, it could cost up to $200. However, if you hire a professional, it could cost up to $1200.

Conclusion

Many of the issues you’ll run into with your Uconnect touch screen in your jeep are easy to fix as it only requires updating the system’s software. You can do this yourself or take your car to the dealership to have them update it. 

However, if you’ve tried all of the solutions provided and your screen still isn’t working, consider taking it to your dealership to have a technician look into the issue. They will be able to help you determine whether it can be fixed or if you will need to replace the screen or the entire system.