Sentry Key Immobilizer System

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Dodge Journey. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) is designed to provide passive protection against unauthorized vehicle use by disabling the engine whenever any method other than a valid FOBIK is used to start the vehicle. The SKIS is considered a passive protection system, because it is always active when the ignition system is energized and it does not require any customer intervention. The SKIS uses Low Frequency (LF) communication to obtain confirmation that the FOBIK in the interior of the vehicle is valid for operating the vehicle. The microprocessor-based SKIS hardware and software also uses electronic messages to communicate with other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. Refer to COMMUNICATION, OPERATION .

Two pre-programmed FOBIK transponders are provided with the vehicle from the factory. Each RF-Hub will recognize a maximum of eight FOBIK transponders. If the customer would like additional FOBIKs, other than those provided with the vehicle, they may be purchased from any authorized dealer. These additional FOBIKs must be programmed to the RF-Hub in the vehicle in order for the system to recognize them as valid. This can be done by the dealer using a diagnostic scan tool. All FOBIKs used on that particular vehicle must be in the vehicle when programming takes place. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .

The RF Hub performs a self-test of the SKIS each time the ignition is pressed to the ON position, and will store fault information in the form of a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) if a system malfunction is detected. The WIN will also send an electronic message to the instrument cluster if a fault is detected, and the instrument cluster illuminates the security indicator.

The hard wired circuits between components related to the SKIS may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, procedures for proper wire and connector repair, details of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin out information and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.

However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the SKIS or the electronic controls and communication between other modules and devices that provide some features of the SKIS. The most reliable, efficient and accurate means to diagnose the SKIS or the electronic controls and communication related to SKIS operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information for any Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) procedures.

For any Body Control Module DTC: Refer to DIAGNOSTIC CODE INDEX .

For any Radio Frequency Hub DTC: Refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING .

For any Powertrain Control Module DTC: Refer to DTC INDEX .