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For 1990-2009 cars only

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation without RPO Y41

The keyless entry system is a vehicle entry device. The keyless entry system is used in conjunction with the body control module (BCM) to remotely activate certain vehicle features. Keyless entry will lock/unlock the doors/liftgate, operate the power liftgate (if equipped), or release the liftglass when a corresponding button on the keyless entry transmitter is pressed. This is accomplished by the transmitter sending a radio frequency to the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR). The RCDLR interprets the signal and activates the requested function via a serial data message to the BCM. A low transmitter or vehicle battery or radio frequency (RF) interference from aftermarket devices, such as 2-way radios, power inverters, computers, etc., may cause a system malfunction. High RF traffic areas may also cause interference that could lead to a malfunction. Keyless entry allows you to operate the following components:

    • Door locks
    • Liftgate lock
    • Power liftgate, if equipped
    • Liftglass, if equipped
    • Remote vehicle starting, if equipped
    • Illuminated entry lamps
    • Vehicle locator/Panic alarm

The keyless entry system has the following components:

    • Keyless entry transmitters
    • Keyless entry antenna
    •  BCM
    •  RCDLR

Keyless Entry Transmitters

The keyless entry transmitters are used to lock and unlock the vehicle door while away from the immediate are of the vehicle. Vehicles without remote vehicle start will operate at a distance of up to 20 m (65 ft) away, except for Japanese and South Korean vehicles, which are limited to 4 m (16 feet). Vehicles with remote vehicle start will operate at a distance of up to 60 m (195 ft) away. Up to 8 transmitters may be programmed to a single vehicle. The vehicle comes with two transmitters. Each transmitter will have a number on top of it, "1" or "2", and each number corresponds to a separate driver of the vehicle.

Keyless Entry Antenna

The keyless entry antenna is used to receive radio frequency (RF) communications sent by the keyless entry transmitters. The keyless entry antenna also receives RF signals from the tire pressure monitoring (TPM) sensors located at each wheel.

A coax antenna lead connects the antenna to the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR). When a transmitter button is present, the RF signal sent by the transmitter is received by the antenna and the communications are inputted to the RCDLR.

Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR)

The remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR) is a multifunction module that operates both the keyless entry system as well as the TPM system. When an RF message is received from a keyless entry transmitter, the RCDLR interprets this signal and will request via serial data that the body control module (BCM) perform the specific function, i.e. door lock, door unlock, or vehicle locate.

Unlock Driver Door Only

Momentarily press the transmitter UNLOCK button in order to perform the following functions:

    • Unlock only the driver door.
    • Illuminate the interior lamps for a determined length of time, or until the ignition is turned ON.
    • Flash the exterior lights, if enabled through personalization.
    • Disarm the content theft deterrent (CTD) system, if equipped.
    • Deactivate the CTD system when in the alarm mode.

Unlock All Doors - Second Operation

Momentarily press the transmitter UNLOCK button a second time, within 5 seconds of the first press, to perform the following functions:

    • Unlock the remaining doors.
    • Unlock the liftgate, if equipped.

Lock All Doors

Press the transmitter LOCK button to perform the following functions:

    • Lock all vehicle doors.
    • Immediately turn OFF the interior lamps.
    • Flash the exterior lights, if enabled through personalization.
    • Chirp the horn, if enabled through personalization.
    • Arm the CTD system, if equipped.

Liftglass Release, if equipped

Press the transmitter liftglass release button to perform the following function:

Open the liftglass.

Power Liftgate, if equipped

Press and hold the power liftgate button to perform the following functions:

    • Open or close the liftgate using the power liftgate function.
    • Flash the tail lamps.
    • Sound the interior power liftgate chime.

Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm

A single press of the panic button performs the following functions. Some functions may be dependent on personalization settings:

    • Pulse the horn 3 times.
    • Flash the exterior lamps 3 times.

A press and hold of the panic button performs the following functions:

    • Illuminate the interior lamps.
    • Pulse the horn and flash the exterior lamps for 30 seconds or until the following conditions occur:
       - The panic button is pressed.
       - The ignition switch is turned to the RUN position with a valid key.

Remote Vehicle Start (RVS), if equipped

The remote vehicle start (RVS) function allows engine starting while not in the vehicle. It also allows the vehicle HVAC system and other vehicle systems to enable, providing a comfortable vehicle upon entry. RVS functions have an operating range of up to 195 feet, depending on conditions. The RVS sequence begins by pressing and releasing the lock button and then pressing and holding the RVS buttons on the keyless entry transmitter. The turn signal lamps will illuminate to indicate the vehicle has received the remote start request. Each time an RVS is performed, the vehicle doors are locked, however they may then be unlocked/locked with the transmitter or vehicle key at any time. Once activated, the engine is allowed to run for 10 minutes. The RVS time may be extended by an additional 10 minutes by again pressing and releasing the lock button and then pressing and holding the RVS buttons on the transmitter. This feature is called a RVS continue and allows a maximum of 20 minutes of engine running. If the RVS continue is performed at 7 minutes into the initial 10 minute time-out, a total of 17 minutes of engine running would occur. The RVS event may be suspended at any time by pressing only the RVS button on the transmitter or by entering the vehicle and turning ON the hazard lamps.

In between ignition cycles, only 2 RVS events may occur or be attempted. Once 2 events or attempts have been made, future RVS events will be suspended until the vehicle is started using the ignition.

Enable/Disable RVS

Using the driver information center (DIC), RVS may be enabled or disabled as a part of vehicle personalization. Refer to the vehicle owners manual for more information.

Hood Ajar Switch

The hood switch provides status of the hood to the BCM for RVS purposes. The switch is integrated into the hood latch assembly. The hood ajar switch provides 2 separate inputs to the BCM. These separate inputs allow the BCM to actively monitor for a hood ajar switch fault.

RVS Circuit Description

The RCDLR receives a signal from the keyless entry transmitter indicating a RVS request. A message is then sent to the BCM which determines if a crank request message will be sent to the ECM to allow engine starting. To determine if conditions are correct for an RVS event, the BCM will ensure the following conditions are met:

    • All vehicle doors are closed.
    • A valid hood ajar switch closed signal is present.
    • The doors are locked.
    • The hazard switch is OFF.
    • The vehicle power mode is correct.
    • No content theft deterrent (CTD) alarm triggers are present.
    • The vehicle is not in valet mode, if equipped.

When the BCM determines all conditions meet those required for an RVS event, a message is sent via serial data to the ECM. The ECM relies on the RVS message from BCM to enable RVS when the crank request signal is received. If the ECM does not receive a valid RVS message, it will not attempt to start the engine. While the ECM is in RVS mode it will suspend engine operation if any of the following additional conditions occur:

    • Vehicle speed is greater than 0.
    • Transmission is not in PARK.
    • Excessive engine coolant temperature
    • Low oil pressure
    • The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is commanded ON.
    • Engine crank time is greater than 30 seconds.
    • Excessive engine speed
    • Accelerator pedal position too high
    • Remote start timer equals 0.
    • Immobilizer system indicates tamper

Keyless Entry Personalization

Vehicle lock/unlock functions and remote vehicle start (RVS) settings may be personalized. For functional descriptions and personalization instructions, refer to the vehicle owners manual.

Rolling Code

The Keyless Entry System uses rolling code technology. Rolling code technology prevents anyone from recording the message sent from the transmitter and using the message in order to gain entry to the vehicle. The term "rolling code" refers to the way that the Keyless Entry System sends and receives the signals. The transmitter sends the signal in a different order each time. The transmitter and the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR) are synchronized to the appropriate order. If a programmed transmitter sends a signal that is not in the order that the RCDLR expects, then the transmitter is out of synchronization. This occurs after 256 presses of any transmitter button when it is out of range of the vehicle.

Automatic Synchronization

The keyless entry transmitters do not require a manual synchronization procedure. If needed, the transmitters automatically re-synchronize when any button on the transmitter is pressed within range of the vehicle. The transmitter will operate normally after the automatic synchronization.

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation with RPO Y41

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation - Active

The keyless entry system is a vehicle entry device. The keyless entry system is used in conjunction with the door locks to unlock the vehicle. Keyless entry will lock/unlock a door or open the rear compartment lid when a corresponding button on the keyless entry transmitter is pressed. This is accomplished by the transmitter sending a radio frequency to the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR). The RCDLR interprets the signal and activates the requested function via a serial data message. A low transmitter battery or radio frequency (RF) interference from aftermarket devices, such as 2-way radios, power inverters, computers, etc., may cause a system malfunction. High RF traffic areas, such as gas stations that use pay-at-the-pump RF transponders, may also cause interference that could lead to a malfunction. Keyless entry allows you to operate the following features:

    • Door lock/unlock
    • Rear compartment lid release
    • Illuminated entry lamps
    • Panic alarm/Vehicle locator
    • Remote vehicle start

Keyless Entry System Description and Operation - Passive

Passive keyless entry allows entry to a locked vehicle without pressing any buttons on the keyless entry transmitter. You must only have the transmitter with you. This passive system is also part of the vehicle starting system. It allows you to start and run the vehicle having only the transmitter as your key. The passive entry and starting system use low frequency antennas in 4 different areas on the vehicle to determine the location of the transmitter. When passively opening a locked door or the rear compartment lid, you must have a programmed transmitter with you in your pocket, purse, or briefcase. As a customer opens the door handle or presses rear compartment touch pad, the low frequency antenna sends out a challenge to the keyless entry transmitter. The transmitter must be in a one meter range of the door or rear compartment lid in order to receive the challenge. If the challenge is met, the transmitter will respond, allowing the door to be unlocked and opened. Passive entry allows you to operate the following features:

    • Passive door unlock/unlatch
    • Passive rear compartment lid release
    • Illuminated entry lamps
    • Vehicle starting

The keyless entry system has the following components:

    • Keyless entry transmitters
    • LH and RH door antennas (part of the door handle assembly)
    • Rear compartment antenna
    • Console passive antenna
    • Console active antenna
    • Body Control Module (BCM)
    • Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR)

Keyless Entry Transmitters

The keyless entry transmitters are used to passively or actively lock and unlock the vehicle doors.

By operating either of the front exterior door handles, a nearby programmed transmitters is challenged by a keyless entry antenna. The transmitter will passively send an RF signal to the RCDLR via the door antennas; the RCDLR will then interpret this communication and either allow entry into the vehicle or deny it.

The vehicle comes with two transmitters. Each transmitter will have a number on top of it, "1" or "2", and each number corresponds to a separate driver of the vehicle

Door Antennas

The keyless entry door antennas are used to transmit low frequency communications to the keyless entry transmitters.

The keyless entry door antennas are molded into the vehicles LF and RF exterior door handles. The antennas are serviced as part of the door handle assembly. The antennas are controlled by the RCDLR. When the exterior door handle is operated, the respective antennas sends out sends out a challenge to the keyless entry transmitter which begins the passive entry communications.

Rear Compartment Antenna

The rear compartment antenna is used to transmit low frequency communication to the keyless entry transmitters for entry to rear compartment.

The rear compartment antenna is located under the rear fascia and is accessed from under the vehicle. The antenna is controlled by the RCDLR. When the rear compartment touch pad is pressed, the antenna sends out a challenge to the keyless entry transmitter which begins the passive entry communications.

Console Passive Antenna

The keyless entry console passive antenna is used for both keyless entry and vehicle starting functions. In their keyless entry function, they are used to locate any keyless entry transmitters within the vehicle. In the antenna's vehicle starting function, the antenna transmit and receive the needed communications with the keyless entry transmitter to enable vehicle starting.

Console Active Antenna

The keyless entry console active antenna is located in the center console. It has a small pocket next to it where the key fob can be inserted if the key fobs battery is dead, weak, or the RF signal is being interrupted.

The purpose of the console active antenna is to send a low frequency RF challenge to a programmed key fob when the start button is pressed. The console active antenna is controlled by the RCDLR.

Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR)

The RCDLR is a multi-function module which controls all the vehicles antennas for passive keyless entry functions. The RCDLR also acts as the receiver for active keyless entry and tire pressure monitoring (TPM) functions, as well as controlling all immobilizer functions.

Unlock Driver Door Only - Active

Momentarily press the transmitter UNLOCK button in order to perform the following functions:

    • Unlock only the driver door
    • Illuminate the interior lamps for a determined length of time, or until the ignition is turned ON
    • Flash the exterior lights, if enable through personalization
    • Disarm the Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) system
    • Deactivate the CTD system when in the alarm mode

Unlock All Doors - Second Operation - Active

Momentarily press the transmitter UNLOCK button a second time, within 5 seconds of the first press, to perform the following function:

Unlock the remaining doors

Unlock Driver Door Only - Passive

If enabled through personalization, approach the driver door with a valid keyless entry transmitter and pull the door handle to perform the following functions:

    • Unlock only the driver door when door handle is operated
    • Disarm the CTD system, if equipped
    • Deactivate the CTD system when in the alarm mode

Unlock All Doors - Passive

If enabled through personalization, approach either front door with a valid keyless entry transmitter to perform the following functions:

    • Unlock all vehicle doors when the approached door handle is operated
    • Disarm the CTD system, if equipped
    • Deactivate the CTD system when in the alarm mode

Lock All Doors - Active

Press the transmitter LOCK button to perform the following functions:

    • Lock all vehicle doors
    • Immediately turn off the interior lamps
    • Flash the exterior lights, if enabled through personalization
    • Chirp the horn, if enabled through personalization
    • Arm the CTD system

Lock All Doors - Passive

If enabled through personalization, exit the vehicle with the keyless entry transmitter to perform the following functions:

    • Lock all vehicle doors after a delay
    • Flash the exterior lights, if enabled through personalization
    • Chirp horn, if enabled through personalization
    • Arm the CTD system

If more than one keyless entry transmitter is within a vehicle and the RCDLR detects that transmitter has been left in the vehicle after an exit, the transmitter left within the vehicle will be temporarily deactivated until the CTD system has been disarmed.

Rear Compartment Lid Release - Active

If the vehicle transaxle is in PARK or NEUTRAL and the ignition is in the OFF position, a single press of the transmitter rear compartment release button will open the rear compartment lid.

Rear Compartment Lid Release - Passive

Approach the rear of the vehicle with a valid keyless entry transmitter. Press the rear compartment lid release touch pad. The rear compartment lid will open.

A keyless entry transmitter left inside the truck will allow the trunk to be reopened at any time. This feature will not allow a customer to lock the transmitter in the trunk.

Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm

A single press of the panic button performs the following functions. Some functions may be dependent on personalization settings:

    • Pulses the horn three times
    • Flashes the exterior lamps three times

A press and hold of the panic button performs the following functions:

    • Illuminates the interior lamps
    • Pulses the horn and flashes the parking lamps for 30 second or until the following conditions occur:
       - The panic button is pressed
       - The ignition switch is turned to the RUN position with a valid key

Remote Vehicle Start (RVS)

The remote vehicle start (RVS) function allows engine starting while not in the vehicle. It also allows the vehicle HVAC system and other vehicle systems to enable, providing a comfortable vehicle upon entry. RVS functions have an operating range of up to 195 feet, depending on conditions. The RVS sequence begins by pressing and releasing the lock button and then pressing and holding the RVS buttons on the keyless entry transmitter. The turn signal lamps will illuminate to indicate the vehicle has received the remote start request. Each time an RVS is performed, the vehicle doors are locked, however they may then be unlocked/locked with the transmitter or vehicle key at any time. Once activated, the engine is allowed to run for 10 minutes. The RVS time may be extended by an additional 10 minute by again pressing and releasing the lock button and then pressing and holding the RVS buttons on the transmitter. This feature is called a RVS continue and allows a maximum of 20 minutes of engine running. If the RVS continue is performed at 7 minutes into the initial 10 minute time-out, a total of 17 minutes of engine running would occur. The RVS event may be suspended at any time by pressing only the RVS button on the transmitter or by entering the vehicle and turning ON the hazard lamps.

In between ignition cycles, only two RVS events may occur or be attempted. Once two events or attempts have been made, future RVS events will be suspended until the vehicle is started using the ignition.

Enable/Disable RVS

Using the driver information center (DIC), RVS may be enabled or disabled as a part of vehicle personalization. Refer to the vehicle owners manual for more information.

Hood Ajar Switch

The hood switch provides status of the hood to the BCM for RVS purposes. The switch is integrated into the hood latch assembly. The hood ajar switch provides 2 separate inputs to the BCM. These separate inputs allow the BCM to actively monitor for a hood ajar switch fault.

RVS Circuit Description

The RCDLR receives a signal from the keyless entry transmitter indicating a RVS request. A message is then sent to the BCM which determines if a crank request message will be sent to the ECM to activate RVS. The BCM looks at the following inputs to verify the system is ready for an RVS event:

    • Vehicle is not in valet mode
    • All vehicle doors are closed
    • Rear compartment lid is not ajar
    • The hood is closed
    • The doors are locked
    • The hazard switch is OFF
    • Battery reconnect has not occurred
    • Vehicle power mode is correct.

When the BCM determines all conditions meet those required for an RVS event, a message is sent via serial data to the BCM. The ECM relies on the RVS message from BCM, to enable RVS when the crank request signal is received. If the ECM does not receive a valid RVS message, it will not ground the control circuit of the crank relay and start the engine. While the ECM is in RVS mode it will cut fuel to the engine if any of the following additional conditions occur:

    • Vehicle speed is greater than 0.
    • Transmission is not in P.
    • Excessive engine coolant temperature
    • Low oil pressure
    • The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is commanded ON.
    • Engine crank time is greater than 30 seconds.
    • Excessive engine speed.
    • Accelerator pedal position too high.
    • Remote start timer equals 0.
    • Immobilizer system indicates a theft attempt

Keyless Entry Personalization

Vehicle lock/unlock functions and remote vehicle start (RVS) settings may be personalized for the vehicle. For functional descriptions and programming instructions, refer to the vehicle owners manual.

Low Fob Battery Message

A LOW FOB BATTERY message may be seen on the DIC when the fob’s battery voltage has been lower than 2.6 volts for three consecutive ignition cycles (OFF to ACC or OFF to RUN). The RCDLR monitors the voltage of each fob independently; however, if two fobs are present when starting the vehicle, the voltage will be monitored only on the fob that starts the vehicle. For example, if Fob 1 enters from the driver door and Fob 2 enters from the passenger door, the RCDLR will monitor only Fob 1. To determine the fob being monitored, check which driver ID is present when the vehicle is started. The driver ID will correspond with the fob being monitored.

Fob battery voltage may also be observed using the scan tool. The scan tool displays the actual battery signal voltage, as well as the low voltage signal. These parameters may be used to determine which fob has caused the LOW FOB BATTERY message to be displayed.