Remote Keyless Entry - System Changes
NUMBER: 08-020-01GROUP: Electrical
DATE: Sep. 28, 2001
SUBJECT:
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) And Immobilizer System Changes
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin describes significant differences on the systems used between 2001 and 2002 models.
MODELS:
2002 (ST) Sebring/Stratus Coupe
DISCUSSION:
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Changes
The Remote Keyless Entry system for 2002 changed suppliers and band type to improve system range and performance. This change causes the transmitters between 2001 and 2002 to be INCOMPATIBLE. Make sure the correct year transmitter is ordered for the vehicle being worked on. Visually, you can tell the difference by looking on the back of the transmitter (Fig. 1). 2001 transmitters have the word "DENSO" and 2002 transmitters have the word "OMRON". A total of 4 transmitters can be programmed into the RKE system for either year.
A new feature was added to the DRBIII(R) in 2002 to assist transmitter programming. A selection for key transmitter programming was added to the menu. By selecting this menu item, pin 1 of the 16 way datalink connector will be pulled to ground. This will allow you to complete the remaining procedure as it is listed in the service manual or TSB 08-002-01 Dated Jan. 19, 2001 can be used. Make sure the PCMCIA card (p/n CH8425) used with the DRBIII(R) to communicate with the Sebring/Stratus Coupes has the latest update. The update was included on CIS CD2089
Sentry Key Immobilizer Changes
The 2002 Sentry Key Immobilizer System changed to be less susceptible to interference from items such as a Mobile Speed Pass(TM), or other immobilizer keys. This change causes the keys between the 2001 and 2002 models to be INCOMPATIBLE. If key cutting/programming is performed, make sure the correct key is used for the model year vehicle being worked on. Production Keys can be identified visually by a letter stamped on the key shank (Fig. 2). 2001 keys will have an upper case "R" and 2002 keys will have an upper case "N". Additionally, 2001 keys ordered through the Pentastar Service Equipment(R) program will not have a mark and the 2002 keys will have an upper case "N". A total of 8 keys can be programmed into the immobilizer system for either year.
For 2002, a new feature was added to the DRBIII(R) to make key programming easier. Individual keys can be programmed without having the customers remaining keys. This new feature is only applicable to 2002 models.
Additionally, customers now have the capability to program their own keys if they have two valid (programmed) keys. The procedures for customer programming are listed in the Owner's Manual and follow for your reference:
1. Insert the first valid key into the ignition and turn the ignition to the "ON" position for 5 seconds.
2. Turn the ignition to the "OFF" position and remove the first key.
3. Insert the second valid key into the ignition and switch the ignition to the "ON" position within 7 seconds. The Theft-alarm indicator will blink twice to indicate the system is in programming mode. Turn the ignition to the "OFF" position and remove the second key.
4. Insert the cut but non programmed Sentry Key into the ignition and switch the ignition to the "ON" position within 7 seconds of removing the previous key. The theft-alarm indicator will illuminate for about 3 seconds when the registration is completed.
NOTE:
IF AN ERROR OCCURS DURING PROGRAMMING, THE THEFT ALARM INDICATOR WILL FLASH 3 TIMES.
5. Repeat step 4 if you want to register additional keys. Make sure the entire registration process is completed within 30 seconds after the theft-alarm indicator flashes in step 3.
PARTS REQUIRED:
NOTE:
A BOX OF 10 KEYS CAN BE ORDERED THROUGH THE PENTASTAR SERVICE EQUIPMENT PROGRAM BY CALLING (800) 223-5623
POLICY:
Information Only.