Avalon, Camry, Camry Solara, Highlander, Land Cruiser, MR2, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna & 4Runner

Engine immobilizer system is a theft deterrent system that disables engine from starting. This is accomplished by not allowing fuel injector and ignition system operation unless ignition key identification code matches code stored in Engine Control Module (ECM). Engine immobilizer system may be standard equipment on some models or optional equipment on other models. Models equipped with engine immobilizer system may be identified by looking at the ignition key. On models equipped with engine immobilizer system, the top of the ignition key is thicker than a standard ignition key, as a transponder chip is incorporated into the top of the ignition key. Engine immobilizer system consists of ignition key with transponder chip, transponder key coil, transponder key amplifier and ECM. When ignition key is inserted into ignition lock cylinder, the ECM instructs transponder key coil on ignition lock cylinder to supply an electromagnetic energy that enables transponder chip to transmit an ignition key identification code signal.

Transponder key amplifier then amplifies ignition key identification code signal and delivers code signal to the ECM. ECM compares received ignition key identification code signal to code stored in the ECM. If ignition key identification code signal and code in the ECM match, ECM will allow fuel injector operation and ignition system operation. If ignition key identification code signal and code in the ECM do not match, ECM will not allow fuel injector operation and ignition system operation. For additional information on system operation and testing, see appropriate ENGINE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEMS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.