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System Operation




Starting System - without Intelligent Access (IA)

System Operation

System Diagram





Network Message Chart

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 and starting 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. PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System), REFER to Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) - without Intelligent Access (IA) .

Under normal operation, when the ignition is turned to START, the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) receives the following inputs:
- Request to start the engine
- PATS (Passive Anti-Theft System) is enable message
- Correct transaxle PARK or Neutral input from the TR (Transmission Range) sensor

When the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) receives the correct inputs, voltage and ground is supplied to the starter relay coil. The starter relay coil is energized causing the relay contacts to close providing voltage to the starter solenoid, allowing the starter motor to crank and start the engine.

The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) disengages the starter once an engine RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) threshold is reached, a set crank time is exceeded or the ignition is turned OFF.

Remote Start

Under normal operation, when equipped with remote start, a remote start event is initiated when the IKT (Integrated Keyhead Transmitter) transmits a remote start request signal to the TPM (Tire Pressure Monitor) module. The TPM (Tire Pressure Monitor) module sends a remote start request message to the BCM (Body Control Module). The BCM (Body Control Module) sends a crank request message to the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). 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, by pressing a sequence of buttons on the IKT (Integrated Keyhead Transmitter). The remote start system is activated by pressing the lock button on the IKT (Integrated Keyhead Transmitter), 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 BCM (Body Control Module) 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 chirps twice.

To transition from remote start mode to drive mode, use a programmed IKT (Integrated Keyhead Transmitter) to switch the ignition to the RUN position. If a programmed IKT (Integrated Keyhead Transmitter) 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.