System Operation

IMPORTANT: If the vehicle WILL crank, it is NOT the PASS-Key (R) III system causing the problem.

The PASS-Key (R) III system prevents the engine from starting if a valid transponder is not sensed from the ignition key by the PASS-Key (R) III module. Once the key is verified, the PASS-Key (R) III module sends a unique fuel continue password to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) via Class 2 Bus. When the PCM receives the correct fuel continue password it enables the starter relay and allows the vehicle to crank. This password is not a key code, but a preprogrammed code from the manufacturer. This password prevents the thief from switching the PASS-Key (R) III module or the PCM in order to steal the vehicle, and provides a second level of vehicle theft deterrence. The mechanical key cut is still used to unlock and release the steering column and the shift lever.

If the PASS-Key (R) III module detects an invalid key, or unauthorized driver, it will not transmit the required password to the PCM for fuel continue or starter enable. Also, if the PCM receives an invalid fuel continue password indicating a swapped PASS-Key (R) III module, it will not allow fuel continue or starter enable. This prevents the engine from starting and discourages the thief from trying keys. There are approximately three trillion different codes available, codes are not readable.

If the correct transponder code is read when the ignition is turned on, the PASS-Key (R) III module sends the fuel continue password to the PCM via the Class 2 Bus. This allows the engine to start normally.