Sentry Key Immobilizer System From Owner's Manual
Sentry Key Immobilizer System - If Equipped
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIM) prevents unauthorized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine. The system will shut the engine down after 2 seconds of running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle for longer than the 2 second validation time period.
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or unlocked. During normal operation, the SKIM indicator light will come on for 3 seconds immediately after the ignition switch is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards, if the bulb remains on, this indicates a malfunction in the electronics. If the bulb begins to flash immediately after the ignition switch is turned on, this indicates that an invalid key is being used to start the vehicle. Both of these conditions will result in the engine being shut down after 2 seconds of running. Keep in mind that a key which has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the ignition for that vehicle.
If the SKIM indicator light comes on during normal vehicle operation (it has been running for longer than 10 seconds) a fault has been detected in the electronics and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.
NOTE:
- The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible with remote starting systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.
- Mobil Speedpass(TM), additional Sentry Keys, or any other transponder equipped components on the same keychain will not cause a key-related (Transponder) fault unless the additional part is physically held against the ignition key being used when starting the vehicle. Also, cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics will not cause interference with this system.
All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Important Note About Service
A four digit PIN number is needed to service the Sentry Key Immobilizer System. This number can be obtained from your authorized dealer. However, this number can also be found on your customer invoice that you were given upon receipt of your vehicle.
Replacement Keys
NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed to any other vehicle.
At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided with a four digit PIN number. This number is required for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A blank key is one which has never been programmed.
NOTE: When having the Sentry Key System serviced, bring all vehicle keys to the dealer.
Customer Key Programming
You can program new keys to the system if you have two valid keys by doing the following:
1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.
2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the first key.
3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds, a chime will sound and the SKIM indicator light will begin to flash. Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the second key.
4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10 seconds, a single chime will sound. The SKIM indicator light will stop flashing, turn on for 3 seconds; then turn off.
The new Sentry Key has been programmed. Repeat this process to program up to a total of 8 keys.
Illuminated Entry - If Equipped
The interior lights will come on when you open any door. The lights will remain on after all of the doors are closed, and then fade to off or they will immediately fade to off once the ignition switch is turned on.
Steering Wheel Lock - If Equipped
Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering wheel lock (manual transmission only). This lock prevents steering the vehicle without the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved a half turn in either direction and the key is not in the ignition, the steering wheel will lock.