System Operation
Starting System - with Intelligent Access (IA)
System Operation
System Diagram
Network Message Chart
Module Network Input Messages RFA (Remote Function Actuator) Module
Module Network Input Messages BCM (Body Control Module)
Module Network Input Messages PCM (Powertrain Control Module)
Starting System
NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) that disables the engine from cranking if an unprogrammed PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) key is used or an invalid PCM (Powertrain Control Module) ID is received. PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) is controlled by the BCM (Body Control Module). If there is a PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) concern that cause the engine to be disabled, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) displays "STARTING SYSTEM FAULT" in the message center. REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - with Intelligent Access (IA).
The RFA (Remote Function Actuator) module in conjunction with the BCM (Body Control Module) controls the ignition modes and in conjunction with the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) controls the starting system.
Under normal operation, during a start event, the start/stop switch is pressed in combination with the brake pedal, the RFA (Remote Function Actuator) module, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) and BCM (Body Control Module) receives a request to start the engine. The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) recognizes the correct inputs from the BCM (Body Control Module) and TR (Transmission Range) sensor and provides voltage and ground to energize the starter relay coil and close the starter relay contacts. The starter relay contacts close, providing voltage to the starter solenoid, allowing the starter motor to crank the engine. The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) disengages the starter motor once an engine RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) threshold is reached, a set crank time is exceeded or the stop/start button is pressed indicating an engine shutdown.
Remote Start
Under normal operation, when equipped with remote start, a remote start event is initiated by pressing a sequence of buttons on the IA (Intelligent Access) key. The factory equipped remote start system does not operate if the ignition is in the RUN/START position or the hood is not closed.
The remote start system enables the engine to be started from up to 100 meters (328 feet) away and is activated by pressing the lock button on the IA (Intelligent Access) key, to make sure the doors are locked, followed by 2 presses of the remote start button. The 3 button presses must occur within 3 seconds. The system acknowledges the start request by flashing the exterior lights twice. Once started, the engine runs for 10 minutes (default run time is 10 minutes; the time can be programmed by the customer to 5, 10 or 15 minutes) and the parking lights remain illuminated until the cycle is complete. The remote start duration can also be extended by initiating remote start while the first timer is still running or by initiating a completely independent start cycle when the first has completed. No more than 2 remote start sequences can occur within a one hour period, unless the ignition is set to the RUN/START position between the remote start requests. During the remote start cycle the power windows are inhibited and the radio will not turn on automatically but may be switched on manually from inside the vehicle. If the remote start system fails to start the horn will chirp twice.
To transition from remote start mode to drive mode, use a programmed IA (Intelligent Access) key to transition to RUN. If a programmed IA (Intelligent Access) key is not used, the engine shuts off.
To deactivate the remote start system, press the remote start button once. When deactivating the remote start system the parking lights turn off to give a visual indication that the engine and climate control features have turned off. It may be necessary to be closer to the vehicle to deactivate the remote start feature than it was to initiate it due to ground deflections and added noise from the engine running.