Sentry Key Immobilizer System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2017 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) is factory-installed standard equipment on this model. The SKIS provides passive vehicle protection, immobilizing the vehicle by preventing the engine from operating unless a valid electronically encoded key or FOB with Integrated Key (FOBIK) is detected. In vehicles not equipped with the optional Passive Entry Keyless Go (PEKG) system, a valid encoded key or FOBIK must be present within the Ignition Node Module (IGNM) for the engine to continue to operate. In vehicles equipped with the optional PEKG system and Keyless Ignition Node (KIN), the FOBIK must only be present somewhere within the passenger compartment of the vehicle for the engine to continue to operate.

The Radio Frequency Hub (RFH) is the primary component of the SKIS. It is also the receiver for the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system, the Passive Entry (PE) system, the remote start system and the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system on vehicles so equipped. The RFH is located on the left side of the cab back panel within the passenger compartment, where it is concealed behind the cab back trim. Refer to MODULE, RADIO FREQUENCY (RF HUB), DESCRIPTION .

The KIN includes the integral ignition push button. The IGNM includes the ignition rotary FOBIK switch or key cylinder switch. The KIN or the IGNM is located in the instrument panel, just to the right of the steering column. The remainder of the KIN or IGNM including its mounting provisions and electrical connections are concealed within the instrument panel. Refer to MODULE, KEYLESS IGNITION NODE (KIN), DESCRIPTION .

The SKIS includes the following major components, which are described in further detail elsewhere in this service information:

Keyless Ignition Node or Ignition Node Module - The KIN on vehicles with PEKG or IGNM on vehicles without PEKG is located in the instrument panel just inboard of the steering column. Refer to MODULE, KEYLESS IGNITION NODE (KIN), DESCRIPTION or MODULE, IGNITION NODE, DESCRIPTION .
Low Frequency Antenna - Vehicles equipped with the optional PEKG system have several low frequency antenna units strategically placed within the vehicle. Refer to ANTENNA, PASSIVE ENTRY, DESCRIPTION .
Powertrain Control Module - The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is located in the engine compartment. Refer to MODULE, POWERTRAIN CONTROL (PCM), DESCRIPTION .
Radio Frequency Hub - The RFH is located on the cab back panel beneath the back glass opening and concealed behind the cab back trim. Refer to MODULE, RADIO FREQUENCY (RF HUB), DESCRIPTION .
Sentry Key Transponder - A Sentry Key transponder microchip is located within each key or FOBIK. Refer to KEY, TRANSPONDER, DESCRIPTION .

The PCM and the RFH each contain a microcontroller and programming that allow them to communicate with each other and other electronic modules in the vehicle using the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. In addition, the KIN and the RFH communicate with each other using a Local Interface Network data bus. Refer to COMMUNICATION, DESCRIPTION .

Hardwired circuitry connects the various SKIS system components to each other through the electrical system of the vehicle. These hard wired circuits are integral to several wire harnesses, which are routed throughout the vehicle and retained by many different methods. These circuits may be connected to each other and to the vehicle electrical system through the use of a combination of soldered splices, splice block connectors and many different types of wire harness terminal connectors and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, further details on wire harness routing and retention as well as pin out and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.