ECO mode DODGE RAM 2003 Service Manual PDF
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: DODGE, Model Year: 2003, Model line: RAM, Model: DODGE RAM 2003Pages: 2895, PDF Size: 83.15 MB
Page 634 of 2895

(2) Engage the hooks on the upper retractor
bracket into the slots in the lower inner B-pillar
above the retractor mounting hole.
(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower retractor bracket to the lower inner B-pillar
below the retractor mounting hole. Tighten the screw
to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(4) Reconnect the yellow seat belt tensioner pigtail
wire connector to the body wire harness take out and
connector for the tensioner.
(5) Engage the seat belt tensioner pigtail wire
retainer into the hole in the inner B-pillar sheet
metal.
(6) Position the seat belt web guide to its mount-
ing location on the inner B-pillar near the belt line.
(7) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt web guide to the inner B-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(8) Reinstall the upper and lower trim onto the
inner B-pillar. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-
PILLAR UPPER TRIM - INSTALLATION) and
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/B-PILLAR LOWER
TRIM - INSTALLATION).
(9) Position the seat belt turning loop onto the
height adjuster on the upper inner B-pillar.
(10) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
seat belt turning loop to the height adjuster. Tighten
the screw to 40 N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(11) Engage the lower snap features of the new
trim cover over the front outboard seat belt turning
loop and, using hand pressure, press firmly and
evenly on the top of the trim cover until it snaps into
place.
(12) Position the lower seat belt anchor to the floor
panel near the base of the inner B-pillar.
(13) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
lower seat belt anchor to the floor panel near the
base of the inner B-pillar. Tighten the screw to 40
N´m (29 ft. lbs.).
(14) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
(15) Move the front seat back to its rearward posi-
tion.
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT
BELT BUCKLE
REMOVAL
A traveling front outboard seat belt buckle is
located on the inboard side of each front outboard
seat section (40 percent) used on all models. The seatbelt buckle on the driver's side front seat for all mod-
els also includes a seat belt switch. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/SEAT BELT SWITCH -
DESCRIPTION).
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENT
PARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) Move the right or left front outboard seat sec-
tion (40 percent) to its most rearward position and
tilt the seat back forward for easiest access to the
front outboard seat belt buckle lower anchor.
(2) For easiest access to the front outboard seat
belt buckle lower anchor on standard cab models,
also move the outboard seat section (40 percent)
opposite the side from which the buckle is to be
removed to its most forward position and tilt the seat
back forward.
(3) On standard cab models only, remove the stow-
age tray from the rear floor panel behind the seat.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/REAR FLOOR
STOWAGE TRAY - REMOVAL).
(4) From behind the front seat on the driver side
only, disconnect the seat belt switch pigtail wire con-
nector from the seat wire harness take out and con-
nector for the switch located below the inboard edge
of the driver side inboard seat track just forward of
the buckle lower anchor (Fig. 29).
(5) From behind the front seat, remove the screw
that secures the front outboard seat belt buckle lower
anchor to the bracket on the inboard seat track.
(6) From the front of the front seat, reach between
the center seat cushion and the adjacent right or left
front outboard seat cushion to access and remove the
front outboard seat belt buckle from the seat.
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 33
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR (Continued)
Page 635 of 2895

INSTALLATION
A traveling front outboard seat belt buckle is
located on the inboard side of each front outboard
seat section (40 percent) used on all models. The seat
belt buckle on the driver's side front seat for all mod-
els also includes a seat belt switch. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/SEAT BELT SWITCH -
DESCRIPTION).
WARNING: DURING AND FOLLOWING ANY SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHOR SERVICE,
CAREFULLY INSPECT ALL SEAT BELTS, BUCKLES,
MOUNTING HARDWARE, RETRACTORS, TETHER
STRAPS, AND ANCHORS FOR PROPER INSTALLA-
TION, OPERATION, OR DAMAGE. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT IS CUT, FRAYED, OR TORN.
STRAIGHTEN ANY BELT THAT IS TWISTED.
TIGHTEN ANY LOOSE FASTENERS. REPLACE ANY
BELT THAT HAS A DAMAGED OR INOPERATIVE
BUCKLE OR RETRACTOR. REPLACE ANY BELT
THAT HAS A BENT OR DAMAGED LATCH PLATE
OR ANCHOR PLATE. REPLACE ANY CHILD
RESTRAINT ANCHOR OR THE UNIT TO WHICH THE
ANCHOR IS INTEGRAL THAT HAS BEEN BENT OR
DAMAGED. NEVER ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A SEAT
BELT OR CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENT.
ALWAYS REPLACE DAMAGED OR FAULTY SEAT
BELT AND CHILD RESTRAINT COMPONENTS WITH
THE CORRECT, NEW AND UNUSED REPLACEMENTPARTS LISTED IN THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER MOPAR
PARTS CATALOG.
(1) From the front of the front seat, reach between
the center seat cushion and the adjacent right or left
front outboard seat cushion to position the front out-
board seat belt buckle to the seat (Fig. 29).
(2) From behind the front seat, install and tighten
the screw that secures the front outboard seat belt
buckle lower anchor to the bracket on the inboard
seat track. Tighten the screw to 25 N´m (18 ft. lbs.).
(3) From behind the front seat on the driver side
only, reconnect the seat belt switch pigtail wire con-
nector to the seat wire harness take out and connec-
tor for the switch located below the inboard edge of
the driver side inboard seat track just forward of the
buckle lower anchor.
(4) On standard cab models only, reinstall the
stowage tray onto the rear floor panel behind the
seat. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/REAR FLOOR
STOWAGE TRAY - INSTALLATION).
(5) On standard cab models, move the outboard
seat section (40 percent) opposite the side from which
the buckle was replaced to its most rearward position
and tilt the seat back to its upright position.
PASSENGER AIRBAG
DESCRIPTION
The rearward facing surface of the injection
molded, thermoplastic passenger airbag door is the
most visible part of the passenger airbag (Fig. 30).
The passenger airbag door is located above the glove
box opening on the instrument panel in front of the
front seat passenger seating position. The upper and
outboard edges of the airbag door are secured with
Fig. 29 Front Outboard Seat Belt Buckle Remove/
Install
1 - DRIVER SIDE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE
2 - SEAT CUSHION
3 - PIGTAIL WIRE
4 - INBOARD SEAT TRACK
5 - SCREW
Fig. 30 Passenger Airbag Door
1 - PASSENGER AIRBAG DOOR
2 - PANEL OUTLET (2)
3 - GLOVE BOX DOOR
8O - 34 RESTRAINTSDR
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE (Continued)
Page 636 of 2895

seven integral snap features to the instrument panel
base trim, while two screws secure the integral
inboard mounting flange to the base trim, and four
screws secure the lower mounting flange to the upper
glove box opening reinforcement integral to the
instrument panel structural support. The passenger
airbag door includes two air conditioning panel out-
lets and their housings. Each of the panel outlet
housings feature four snap features that secure them
to the back of the airbag door and two mounting tabs
that are also secured with one screw each to the
upper glove box opening reinforcement.
Located behind the passenger airbag door within
the instrument panel is the passenger airbag unit
(Fig. 31). The passenger airbag housing fits into a
molded receptacle on the back of the airbag door,
where six stamped hook formations on the upper and
lower edges of the airbag housing are engaged in six
small window openings on the upper and lower
flanges of the receptacle to secure the airbag door to
the airbag housing. The inboard airbag door fasten-
ers and mounting flange are concealed beneath the
instrument panel center bezel, while the lower fas-
teners and mounting flange are concealed beneath
the instrument panel lower surround. The passenger
airbag unit is secured by four screws through four
brackets (two front and two rear) that are integral to
the base of the airbag housing to the instrument
panel structural support.
The passenger airbag unit used in this model is a
Next Generation-type that complies with revised fed-
eral airbag standards to deploy with less force thanthose used in some prior models. The passenger air-
bag unit consists of a stamped and welded metal
housing, the airbag cushion, the airbag inflator, and
a stamped metal airbag and inflator retainer plate
that is secured to the airbag housing with six studs
and nuts. The airbag housing contains the airbag
inflator and the folded airbag cushion. An approxi-
mately 80 centimeter (31.5 inch) wide by 90 centime-
ter (35.5 inch) high rectangular fabric cushion is
used. The airbag inflator is a non-azide, pyrotechnic-
type unit that is secured to and sealed within the air-
bag housing. The inflator initiator is connected to the
vehicle electrical system through a dedicated take
out and connector of the instrument panel wire har-
ness.
The passenger airbag includes the airbag door and
the two panel outlet housings. This unit cannot be
repaired, and must be replaced if deployed, faulty, or
in any way damaged.
OPERATION
The passenger airbag is deployed by an electrical
signal generated by the Airbag Control Module
(ACM) through the passenger airbag squib circuits to
the initiator in the airbag inflator. The hybrid-type
inflator assembly includes a small canister of highly
compressed inert gas. When the ACM sends the
proper electrical signal to the airbag inflator, the ini-
tiator converts the electrical energy into chemical
energy. This chemical energy produces the pressure
necessary to rupture a burst disk in the inert gas
canister.
The inflator is sealed to the airbag cushion so that
all of the released inert gas is directed into the air-
bag cushion, causing the cushion to inflate. As the
cushion inflates, the passenger airbag door will split
at predetermined tear seam lines concealed on the
inside surface of the door, then the door will pivot up
over the top of the instrument panel and out of the
way. Following a passenger airbag deployment, the
airbag cushion quickly deflates by venting the inert
gas through vent holes within the fabric used to con-
struct the back (instrument panel side) of the airbag
cushion.
REMOVAL
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged passenger airbag. If the airbag is
faulty or damaged, but not deployed, review the rec-
ommended procedures for handling non-deployed
supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HAN-
DLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the passenger airbag has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deploymentFig. 31 Passenger Airbag Unit
1 - DOOR
2 - PANEL OUTLET HOUSING (2)
3 - SNAP FEATURE (7)
4 - REAR BRACKET (2)
5 - PIGTAIL WIRE CONNECTOR
6 - INFLATOR
7 - FRONT BRACKET (2)
8 - HOUSING
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 35
PASSENGER AIRBAG (Continued)
Page 639 of 2895

PASSENGER AIRBAG ON/OFF
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The passenger airbag on/off switch is standard
equipment on all standard cab versions of this model
when they are equipped with the dual front airbag
system (Fig. 35). This switch is a two-position, resis-
tor multiplexed switch with a single integral red
Light-Emitting Diode (LED), and a non-coded key
cylinder-type actuator. The switch is located in the
lower right corner of instrument panel center bezel,
near the center of instrument panel to make the Off
indicator visible to all front seat occupants. When the
switch is in its installed position, the only compo-
nents visible through the dedicated opening of the
cluster bezel are the switch face plate and nomencla-
ture, and the key cylinder actuator. The9Off9position
of the switch is illuminated when this switch position
is selected, while the ªOnº position of the switch is
designated by text imprinted upon the face plate of
the switch, but is not illuminated. The remainder of
the switch is concealed behind the switch face plate
and the instrument panel center bezel.
The passenger airbag on/off switch housing is con-
structed of molded plastic and has three integral
mounting tabs. These mounting tabs are used to
secure the switch to the back of the molded plastic
switch face plate with three small screws. The
molded plastic face plate also has three integral
mounting tabs that are used to secure the switch and
face plate unit to the instrument panel center bezel
with three additional screws. A molded plastic con-
nector receptacle on the back of the switch housingconnects the switch to the vehicle electrical system
through a dedicated take out and connector of the
instrument panel wire harness. The molded plastic
harness connector insulator is keyed and latched to
ensure proper and secure switch electrical connec-
tions. The passenger airbag on/off switch cannot be
adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the
switch must be replaced.
OPERATION
The passenger airbag on/off switch allows the cus-
tomer to turn the passenger airbag function On or
Off to accommodate certain uses of the right front
seating position where airbag protection may not be
desired. See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove
box for specific recommendations on when to enable
or disable the passenger airbag. The Off indicator of
the switch will be illuminated whenever the switch is
turned to the Off position and the ignition switch is
in the On position.
The ignition key is the only key or object that
should ever be inserted into the key cylinder actuator
of the switch. The on/off switch requires only a par-
tial key insertion to fully depress a spring-loaded
locking plunger. The spring-loaded locking plunger
prevents the user from leaving the key in the switch.
The key will be automatically ejected when force is
not applied. To actuate the passenger airbag on/off
switch, insert the ignition key into the switch key
actuator far enough to fully depress the plunger, then
rotate the actuator to the desired switch position.
When the switch key actuator is rotated to its clock-
wise stop (the key actuator slot will be aligned with
the Off indicator), the Off indicator is illuminated
and the passenger airbag is disabled. When the
switch is rotated to its counterclockwise stop (the key
actuator slot will be in a vertical position), the Off
indicator will be extinguished and the passenger air-
bag is enabled.
The passenger airbag on/off switch connects one of
two internal resistors in series between the passen-
ger airbag mux switch sense and passenger airbag
mux switch return circuits of the Airbag Control
Module (ACM). The ACM continually monitors the
resistance in these circuits to determine the switch
position that has been selected. When the switch is
in the Off position, the ACM provides a ground input
to the switch through the passenger airbag indicator
driver circuit, which energizes the Light-Emitting
Diode (LED) that illuminates the Off indicator of the
switch.
The ACM will also illuminate the Off indicator of
the switch for about seven seconds each time the
ignition switch is turned to the On position as a bulb
test. The ACM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) for any fault it detects in the passenger airbag
Fig. 35 Passenger Airbag On/Off Switch
1 - SWITCH
2 - FACE PLATE
3 - OFF INDICATOR
4 - KEY CYLINDER ACTUATOR
8O - 38 RESTRAINTSDR
Page 650 of 2895

outboard seat belt and retractor unit must be
replaced. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR -
REMOVAL).
OPERATION
The seat belt tension reducer is controlled by a
ground signal received from the seat belt switch on
the seat belt switch sense circuit and a battery cur-
rent signal received from the ignition switch on the
fused ignition switch output (run-accessory) circuit.
When the seat belt switch is closed (the driver side
front seat belt is fastened) and the ignition switch is
in the On or Accessory positions, the seat belt tension
reducer solenoid is energized. When the solenoid is
energized, it actuates a mechanism within the driver
side front outboard seat belt retractor to reduce the
normal recoil spring tension exerted by the retractor
spool, which is designed to reel in the seat belt web-
bing onto the spool. When the driver side seat belt is
unbuckled or if the ignition switch is turned to any
position except On or Accessory, the tension reducer
solenoid is de-energized and the normal recoil spring
tension of the retractor is restored.
The action of the seat belt tension reducer results
in improved seat belt comfort for the driver. Reducing
the seat belt retractor recoil spring tension is desir-
able on standard cab models of this vehicle and not
on the quad cab model due to the different mounting
position required for the seat belt turning loop on the
B-pillar relative to the driver's seat position on the
standard cab model. The seat belt tension reducer
may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools
and methods.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SEAT BELT
TENSION REDUCER
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINTSYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL
COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCON-
NECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE
(GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR
THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE
PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT
AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the body wire harness connector for
the seat belt tension reducer from the tension
reducer connector receptacle on the driver side front
outboard seat belt and retractor unit. Using an ohm-
meter, measure the resistance between the seat belt
switch sense circuit terminal pin and the fused igni-
tion switch output (run-accessory) circuit terminal
pin in the tension reducer connector receptacle on
the retractor. Resistance through the tension reducer
solenoid coil should be 53 ohms at 20É C (68É F). If
OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, replace the faulty driver
side front outboard seat belt and retractor unit.
(2) Check for continuity between the seat belt
switch sense circuit cavity of the body wire harness
connector for the seat belt tension reducer and a good
ground. There should be continuity with the driver
side front seat belt buckled, and no continuity with
the driver side front seat belt unbuckled. If OK, go to
Step 3. If not OK, repair the shorted or open seat
belt switch sense circuit between the tension reducer
and the seat belt switch as required.
(3) Reconnect the battery negative cable. Check for
battery current at the fused ignition switch output
(run-accessory) circuit of the body wire harness con-
nector for the seat belt tension reducer. There should
be battery current with the ignition switch in the On
or Accessory positions, and no battery current with
the ignition switch in any other position. If not OK,
repair the shorted or open fused ignition switch out-
put (run-accessory) circuit between the tension
reducer and the ignition switch as required.
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 49
SEAT BELT TENSION REDUCER (Continued)
Page 667 of 2895

(8) Connect servo cable to throttle body. Refer to
servo Cable Removal/Installation.
(9) Install left-front wheel-well liner.
(10) Connect negative battery cable to battery
(connect both cables if diesel).
(11) Before starting engine, operate accelerator
pedal to check for any binding.
SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
Two separate switch pods operate the speed control
system. The steering-wheel-mounted switches use
multiplexed circuits to provide inputs to the PCM (to
the ECM for diesel) for ON, OFF, RESUME, ACCEL-
ERATE, SET, DECEL and CANCEL modes. Refer to
the owner's manual for more information on speed
control switch functions and setting procedures.
The individual switches cannot be repaired. If one
switch fails, the entire switch module must be
replaced.
Depending on engine control computer (JTEC
having a 3± plug connector or NGC having a 4±
plug connector), 2 types of switches are used.
Both types of switches are internally and exter-
nally different. The switch used with the NGC
system has an attached pigtail lead. The switch
used with the JTEC system does not have an
attached pigtail lead.
OPERATION
When speed control is selected by depressing the
ON, OFF switch, the PCM (ECM for diesel) allows a
set speed to be stored in its RAM for speed control.
To store a set speed, depress the SET switch while
the vehicle is moving at a speed between approxi-
mately 35 and 85 mph. In order for the speed control
to engage, the brakes cannot be applied, nor can the
gear selector be indicating the transmission is in
Park or Neutral.
The speed control can be disengaged manually by:
²Stepping on the brake pedal
²Depressing the OFF switch
²Depressing the CANCEL switch.
The speed control can be disengaged also by any of
the following conditions:
²An indication of Park or Neutral
²The VSS signal increases at a rate of 10 mph
per second (indicates that the co-efficient of friction
between the road surface and tires is extremely low)
²Depressing the clutch pedal.
²Excessive engine rpm (indicates that the trans-
mission may be in a low gear)
²The VSS signal decreases at a rate of 10 mph
per second (indicates that the vehicle may have
decelerated at an extremely high rate)
²If the actual speed is not within 20 mph of the
set speed
The previous disengagement conditions are pro-
grammed for added safety.
Once the speed control has been disengaged,
depressing the ACCEL switch restores the vehicle to
the target speed that was stored in the PCM's RAM
(ECM for diesel).
NOTE: Depressing the OFF switch will erase the set
speed stored in the PCM's RAM.
If, while the speed control is engaged, the driver
wishes to increase vehicle speed, the PCM (ECM for
diesel) is programmed for an acceleration feature.
With the ACCEL switch held closed, the vehicle
accelerates slowly to the desired speed. The new tar-
get speed is stored in the PCM's RAM when the
ACCEL switch is released. The PCM also has a9tap-
up9feature in which vehicle speed increases at a rate
of approximately 2 mph for each momentary switch
activation of the ACCEL switch.
The PCM also provides a means to decelerate with-
out disengaging speed control. To decelerate from an
existing recorded target speed, depress and hold the
COAST switch until the desired speed is reached.
Then release the switch. The ON, OFF switch oper-
ates two components: the PCM's ON, OFF input, and
the battery voltage to the brake switch.
Fig. 9 SERVO CABLE CLIP REMOVE/INSTALL Ð
TYPICAL
1 - SERVO MOUNTING NUTS (2)
2 - SERVO
3 - CABLE RETAINING CLIP
4 - SERVO CABLE AND SLEEVE
8P - 8 SPEED CONTROLDR
SERVO (Continued)
Page 670 of 2895

VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION........................1
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM (SKIS) . 1
DESCRIPTION........................1
OPERATION
OPERATION..........................2
OPERATION..........................2
OPERATION..........................2
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM......3STANDARD PROCEDURE
CONFIGURING A NEW MODULE / SWITCH
OPERATING MODES....................3
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INITIALIZATION........................3
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
TRANSPONDER PROGRAMMING..........4
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INDICATOR LAMP
DESCRIPTION..........................5
OPERATION............................5
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
The Vehicle Theft/Security System (VTSS) is
designed to protect against whole vehicle theft. The
system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for
unauthorized operation.
The VTSS activates:
²Sounding of the horn
²Flashing of the park lamps
²Flashing of the head lamps
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) has 1 mode of
operation,CUSTOMER USAGEmode. The cus-
tomer usage mode provides full functionality of the
module and is the mode in which the RKE module
should be operating when used by the customer.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM (SKIS)
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) is
designed to provide passive protection against unau-
thorized vehicle use by preventing the engine from
operating while the system is armed. The primary
components of this system are the Sentry Key Immo-
bilizer Module (SKIM), the Sentry Key transponder,
the Vehicle Theft/Security System (VTSS) indicator
LED, and the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
The SKIM is installed on the steering column near
the ignition lock cylinder. The transponder is located
under the molded rubber cap on the head of the igni-tion key. The VTSS indicator LED is located in the
instrument cluster.
The SKIS includes two valid Sentry Key transpon-
ders from the factory. This is so the customer can self
program new keys if one is lost. If the customer
wishes, additional non-coded blank Sentry Keys are
available. These blank keys can be cut to match a
valid ignition key, but the engine will not start
unless the key transponder is also programmed to
the vehicle. The SKIS will recognize no more than
eight valid Sentry Key transponders at any one time.
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, and will
store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIS can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool as described in the proper Body
Diagnostic Procedures Manual.
DESCRIPTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) con-
tains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a cen-
tral processing unit, which includes the Sentry Key
Immobilizer System (SKIS) program logic. The SKIS
programming enables the SKIM to program and
retain in memory the codes of at least two, but no
more than eight electronically coded Sentry Key
transponders. The SKIS programming also enables
the SKIM to communicate over the Programmable
Communication Interface (PCI) bus network with the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM), and/or the
DRBIIItscan tool.
DRVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 1
Page 671 of 2895

OPERATION
OPERATION
When in theCustomer Usagemode of operation,
the system is armed when the vehicle is locked using
the:
²Power Door Lock Switches
²Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) Transmitter
²Key Cylinder Switches
After the vehicle is locked and the last door is
closed, the VTSS indicator in the instrument cluster
will flash quickly for 16 seconds, indicating that the
arming is in process. After 16 seconds, the LED will
continue to flash at a slower rate indicating that the
system is armed.
VTSS disarming occurs upon normal vehicle entry
by unlocking either door via the key cylinder or RKE
transmitter, or by starting the vehicle with a valid
Sentry Key. This disarming will also halt the alarm
once it has been activated.
A tamper alert exists to notify the driver that the
system has been activated. This alert consists of 3
horn pulses and the security telltail flashing for 30
seconds when the vehicle is disarmed. The tamper
alert will not occur if disarmed while alarming.
The VTSS will not arm by mechanically locking the
vehicle doors. This will manually override the sys-
tem.
OPERATION
The SKIS includes two valid Sentry Key transpon-
ders from the factory. These two Sentry Keys can be
used to program additional non-coded blank Sentry
Keys. These blank keys can be cut to match a valid
ignition key, but the engine will not start unless the
key transponder is also programmed to the vehicle.
The SKIS will recognize no more than eight valid
Sentry Key transponders at any one time.
The SKIS performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, and will
store Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) if a system
malfunction is detected. The SKIS can be diagnosed,
and any stored DTC can be retrieved using a
DRBIIItscan tool as described in the proper Power-
train Diagnostic Procedures manual.
OPERATION
The SKIM transmits and receives RF signals
through a tuned antenna enclosed within a molded
plastic ring formation that is integral to the SKIM
housing. When the SKIM is properly installed on the
steering column, the antenna ring is oriented around
the circumference of the ignition lock cylinder hous-
ing. This antenna ring must be located within eight
millimeters (0.31 inches) of the Sentry Key in orderto ensure proper RF communication between the
SKIM and the Sentry Key transponder.
For added system security, each SKIM is pro-
grammed with a unique ªSecret Keyº code and a
security code. The SKIM keeps the ªSecret Keyº code
in memory. The SKIM also sends the ªSecret Keyº
code to each of the programmed Sentry Key tran-
sponders. The security code is used by the assembly
plant to access the SKIS for initialization, or by the
dealer technician to access the system for service.
The SKIM also stores in its memory the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), which it learns through
a PCI bus message from the PCM during initializa-
tion.
The SKIM and the PCM both use software that
includes a rolling code algorithm strategy, which
helps to reduce the possibility of unauthorized SKIS
disarming. The rolling code algorithm ensures secu-
rity by preventing an override of the SKIS through
the unauthorized substitution of the SKIM or the
PCM. However, the use of this strategy also means
that replacement of either the SKIM or the PCM
units will require a system initialization procedure to
restore system operation.
When the ignition switch is turned to the ON or
START positions, the SKIM transmits an RF signal
to excite the Sentry Key transponder. The SKIM then
listens for a return RF signal from the transponder
of the Sentry Key that is inserted in the ignition lock
cylinder. If the SKIM receives an RF signal with
valid ªSecret Keyº and transponder identification
codes, the SKIM sends a ªvalid keyº message to the
PCM over the PCI bus. If the SKIM receives an
invalid RF signal or no response, it sends ªinvalid
keyº messages to the PCM. The PCM will enable or
disable engine operation based upon the status of the
SKIM messages.
The SKIM also sends messages to the Instrument
Cluster which controls the VTSS indicator. The
SKIM sends messages to the Instrument Cluster to
turn the indicator on for about three seconds when
the ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a
ªbulbº test. After completion of the ªbulbº test, the
SKIM sends bus messages to keep the indicator off
for a duration of about one second. Then the SKIM
sends messages to turn the indicator on or off based
upon the results of the SKIS self-tests. If the VTSS
indicator comes on and stays on after the ªbulb testº,
it indicates that the SKIM has detected a system
malfunction and/or that the SKIS has become inoper-
ative.
If the SKIM detects an invalid key when the igni-
tion switch is turned to the ON position, it sends
messages to flash the VTSS indicator. The SKIM can
also send messages to flash the indicator to serve as
an indication to the customer that the SKIS has been
8Q - 2 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYDR
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)
Page 672 of 2895

placed in its ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
See Sentry Key Immobilizer System Transponder
Programming in this section for more information on
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.
For diagnosis or initialization of the SKIM and the
PCM, a DRBIIItscan tool and the proper Powertrain
Diagnostic Procedures manual are required. The
SKIM cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged,
the unit must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY SYSTEM
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
NOTE: The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the Vehicle Theft Security Sys-
tem (VTSS) and Sentry Key Immobilizer System
(SKIS) involves the use of a DRBlllTscan tool and
the proper Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures man-
ual.
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS), Sentry
Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) and the Programma-
ble Communication Interface (PCI) bus network
should be diagnosed using a DRBIIItscan tool. The
DRBIIItwill allow confirmation that the PCI bus is
functional, that the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module
(SKIM) is placing the proper messages on the PCI
bus, and that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
and the Instrument Cluster are receiving the PCI
bus messages. Refer to the proper Powertrain or
Body Diagnostic Procedures manual.
Visually inspect the related wiring harness connec-
tors. Look for broken, bent, pushed out or corroded
terminals. If any of the conditions are present, repair
as necessary. Refer to Wiring Diagrams for complete
circuit descriptions and diagrams. Refer to (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
ULES/SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE -
REMOVAL) for SKIM replacement.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
CONFIGURING A NEW MODULE / SWITCH
OPERATING MODES
To configure a new module or to switch operating
modes, a DRBIIItscan tool must be used.
(1) Hook up the DRBIIItscan tool to the Data
Link Connector (DLC).
(2) With the key in the ignition, turn the key to
the RUN position.
(3) After the DRBIIItscan tool initialization, per-
form the following:
(a) Select ªTheft Alarm.º
(b) Select ªVTSS.º
(c) Select ªMiscellaneous.º
(4) Once in the ªMiscellaneousº screen:
(a) If you wish to configure a new module, select
ªConfigure Module.º
(b) If you wish to put the module into customer
usage mode, select ªEnable VTSS.º
(c) If you wish to put the module into dealer lot
mode, select ªDealer Lot.º
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
INITIALIZATION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) initial-
ization should be performed following a Sentry Key
Immobilizer Module (SKIM) replacement.
It can be summarized by the following:
(1) Obtain the vehicles unique PIN number
assigned to it's original SKIM from the vehicle
owner, the vehicle's invoice or from Chrysler's Cus-
tomer Center.
(2) With the DRBIIItscan tool, select ªTheft
Alarm,º ªSKIM,º Miscellaneous.º Select ªSKIM Mod-
ule Replacedº function and the DRBIIItwill prompt
you through the following steps.
(3) Enter secured access mode using the unique
four digit PIN number.
(4) Program the vehicle's VIN number into the
SKIM's memory.
(5) Program the country code into the SKIM's
memory (U.S.).
(6) Transfer the vehicle's unique Secret Key data
from the PCM. This process will require the SKIM to
be insecured access mode. The PIN number must
be entered into the DRBIIItbefore the SKIM will
entersecured access mode. Oncesecured access
modeis active, the SKIM will remain in that mode
for 60 seconds.
(7) Program all customer keys into the SKIM's
memory. This required that the SKIM be insecured
access modeThe SKIM will immediately exit
secured access modeafter each key is pro-
grammed.
DRVEHICLE THEFT SECURITY 8Q - 3
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)
Page 673 of 2895

NOTE: If a PCM is replaced, the unique ªSecret
Keyº data must be transferred from the SKIM to the
PCM. This procedure requires the SKIM to be
placed in SECURED ACCESS MODE using the four
digit PIN code.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
TRANSPONDER PROGRAMMING
Two programmed Sentry Key transponders are
included with the Sentry Key Immobilizer System
(SKIS) when it is shipped from the factory. The Sen-
try Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) can be pro-
grammed to recognize up to six additional
transponders, for a total of eight Sentry Keys. The
following ªCustomer Learnº programming procedure
for the programming of additional transponders
requires access to at least two of the valid Sentry
Keys. If two valid Sentry Keys are not available, Sen-
try Key programming will require the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool.
CUSTOMER LEARN PROGRAMMING
(1) Obtain the additional Sentry Key transponder
blank(s) that are to be programmed for the vehicle.
Cut the additional Sentry Key transponder blanks to
match the ignition lock cylinder mechanical key
codes.
(2) Insert one of the two valid Sentry Key tran-
sponders into the ignition switch and turn the igni-
tion switch to the ON position.
(3) After the ignition switch has been in the ON
position for about three seconds, but no more than
fifteen seconds, cycle the ignition switch back to the
OFF position. Replace the first valid Sentry Key in
the ignition lock cylinder with the second valid Sen-
try Key and turn the ignition switch back to the ON
position. Both operations must be performed within
15 seconds.
(4) In approximately ten seconds the VTSS indica-
tor LED will start to flash to indicate that the sys-
tem has entered the ªCustomer Learnº programming
mode.
(5) Within approximately sixty seconds of entering
the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode, turn the
ignition switch to the OFF position, replace the valid
Sentry Key with a blank Sentry Key transponder,
and turn the ignition switch back to the ON position.
(6) In approximately ten seconds, the VTSS indica-
tor LED will stop flashing and stay on solid for
approximately three seconds and then turn OFF to
indicate that the blank Sentry Key transponder has
been successfully programmed. The SKIS will imme-
diately return to normal system operation following
exit from the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode.(7) Repeat this process for each additional Sentry
Key transponder blank to be programmed.
If any of the above steps is not completed in the
proper sequence, or within the allotted time, the
SKIS will automatically exit the ªCustomer Learnº
programming mode. The SKIS will also automatically
exit the ªCustomer Learnº programming mode if it
sees a non-blank Sentry Key transponder when it
should see a blank, if it has already programmed
eight valid Sentry Keys, or if the ignition switch is
turned to the OFF position for more than about fifty
seconds.
NOTE: While in Customer Learn mode (LED flash-
ing), the engine will not START and RUN.
PROGRAMMING BLANK SENTRY KEY
TRANSPONDERS WITH A DRBIIITSCAN TOOL
When programming a blank Sentry Key transpon-
der, the key blank must first be cut to match the
ignition lock cylinder. It will also be necessary to
enter the vehicle's four digit PIN code into the
DRBIIItscan tool to enter the Sentry Key Immobi-
lizer Module's (SKIM's) secured access mode.
NOTE: Once a Sentry Key is programmed to a par-
ticular vehicle, it cannot be transferred to another
vehicle.
Insert the blank key into the ignition and turn it to
the RUN position. Using the DRBIIItscan tool,
select ªTheft Alarm,º then ªSKIM,º then ªMiscella-
neous.º Select ªProgram New Key.º Enter the four
digit PIN code using the DRBIIIt. When program-
ming is completed, the SKIM will exit secured access
mode and the DRBIIItwill display the status of the
key. One of five different status messages may be dis-
played as follows:
²ªProgramming Successfulº is displayed if SKIM
Sentry Key programming succeeds.
²ªLearned Key in Ignitionº is displayed if the key
in the ignition has already been programmed into
that vehicle's SKIM.
²ª8 Keys Already Learned (At The Maximum)
Programming Not Doneº is displayed if eight keys
have already been programmed into the SKIM. In
this case, if a new key needs to be added due to a
lost or defective key, the ªErase All Keysº function
(requires entering secured access mode) has to be
performed. Then the customer's seven keys plus the
new key MUST be reprogrammed into the SKIM.
²ªProgramming Not Attemptedº is displayed after
an ªErase All Keysº function is executed.
²ªProgramming Key Failedº is displayed if fur-
ther diagnosis is required.
8Q - 4 VEHICLE THEFT SECURITYDR
VEHICLE THEFT SECURITY (Continued)