Keyless Entry Transmitter: Description and Operation
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY TRANSMITTERDescription
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system Radio Frequency (RF) transmitter is equipped with three buttons, labeled Lock, Unlock, and Panic. It is also equipped with a key ring and is designed to serve as a key fob. The operating range of the transmitter radio signal is up to 10 meters (30 feet) from the RKE receiver.
Each RKE transmitter has a different vehicle access code, which must be programmed into the memory of the RKE receiver in the vehicle in order to operate the RKE system. Two transmitters are provided with the vehicle, but the RKE receiver can retain the access codes of up to four transmitters in its memory. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS/REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY TRANSMITTER - STANDARD PROCEDURE - RKE TRANSMITTER PROGRAMMING).
In addition, the RKE transmitters for vehicles equipped with the optional Memory System are color-coded and have a number "1" or "2" molded into the transmitter case to coincide with the "Driver 1 (Black)" and "Driver 2 (Gray)" buttons of the memory switch on the driver side front door trim panel. These transmitters must also have their access codes programmed into the RKE receiver so that they coincide with the "Driver 1" and "Driver 2" buttons of the memory switch. (Refer to ELECTRICAL/POWER SEATS - DESCRIPTION - MEMORY SYSTEM).
The RKE transmitter operates on two Panasonic CR2016 (or equivalent) batteries. Typical battery life is from one to two years. The RKE transmitter cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
Operation
When the lock button on the transmitter is pressed, all locks will lock, illuminated entry will be turned OFF, (providing all doors are closed) and the vehicle theft security system (if equipped) will be armed. When the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed one time, the driver front door will unlock, the illuminated entry will turn on the courtesy lamps, the vehicle theft security system (if equipped) will be disarmed. When the button is pressed a second time, the other doors will unlock. This feature is programmable to open all doors on one press using the EVIC or the DRB III.
The passenger door module (PDM) contains the RKE receiver. When the PDM receives a valid signal from the RKE transmitter, it will send a signal on the PCI bus to lock or unlock the doors. The RKE transmitter uses radio frequency signals to communicate with the RKE receiver. If vehicle is equipped with the memory system, the memory message will be received as to which transmitter sent the signal (1 or 2).
Panic Function
When the panic button on the RKE transmitter is pressed it pulsates the headlamp, hazard lamps and horn relays and actuates the courtesy lamp relay. By pressing the button again the horn and exterior lamps will stop but the courtesy lamps will remain on until the BCM times them out or the ignition is turned on. The panic feature is able to be set if the ignition is on but only if the panic button is pressed prior to the vehicle being started, it will continue for three minutes or until the vehicle has reached a speed of 15 MPH, if not canceled by the operator.
Actuating the headlamp, horn, hazard lamps and courtesy lamp relays with the DRB III will verify that the circuits and the body control module are OK. If the panic feature is still inoperable with both transmitters, replacement of the passenger door module will be necessary. If the function is inoperable with just one transmitter, then it is obvious that the transmitter must be replaced.