RKE System - Erratic Operation/Inoperative
NUMBER: 08-001-01GROUP: Electrical
DATE: Jan. 19, 2001
SUBJECT:
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) - Poor Performance/Intermittent Operation
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves inspecting the RKE transmitter for battery terminal alignment and replacing the sun roof ECU on those vehicles equipped with sun roof.
MODELS:
2001 (ST) Sebring/Stratus Coupe
NOTE:
THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO AUGUST 7, 2000 (MDH0807XX).
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicles may exhibit poor or intermittent RKE performance. Customers may describe this as non-operational, will only operate at short range, or will intermittently operate. Two different conditions can contribute to the problem as follows:
1. The negative battery terminal of the RKE transmitter may be miss-located. This can cause inoperative or intermittent RKE operation.
2. Vehicles equipped with a sun roof may have a sun roof ECU that electrically (RF) interferes with the RKE system. In this case, the RKE transmitter may or may not lock or unlock the doors. This condition occurs more frequently when operating the transmitter from the rear of the vehicle. In addition, the RKE transmitter may only operate when standing very close to the vehicle.
DIAGNOSIS/REPAIR PROCEDURES:
Confirm the condition by attempting to operate the RKE system from different points around the vehicle. It is important to note that the system operating range is within 3.96 m (13 ft.). If the RKE system fails to operate within this range, perform the appropriate Repair Procedure.
PARTS REQUIRED:
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
VEHICLES WITHOUT SUN ROOF
1. Be sure to confirm the function of both transmitters within 3.96 m (13 ft.) of the vehicle. Split the case of each transmitter and inspect the battery terminal as shown (Fig. 1). If the terminal is miss-located, replace the appropriate transmitter(s). If no problems are found with the terminal, follow the remaining diagnostic procedures listed in the Sebring/Stratus Coupe service manual p/n 81-270-1018.
NOTE:
IF ANY TRANSMITTER IS REPLACED, ALL TRANSMITTERS MUST BE RE-PROGRAMMED. FOLLOW THE PROCEDURES LISTED IN TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN 08-002-01 DATED JAN. 19, 2001. VEHICLES WITH SUN ROOF.
1. Inspect each transmitters battery terminal as described above (Fig. 1). If the battery terminal is miss-located, replace the appropriate transmitter(s).
2. Stand 3.96 m (13 ft.) from the vehicle and operate the transmitter at 10 different locations around the perimeter of the vehicle.
3. If the transmitter fails to communicate at any of the 10 points, replace the sun roof ECU with new p/n MR599682 as follows.
a. Verify sun roof operation and make sure the glass is in the fully closed position before continuing.
b. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
c. Remove the inside sun roof garnish.
d. Partially remove the right and left door opening weather strip.
e. Remove the right and left "A" pillar trim.
NOTE:
REINSTALL RETAINER CLIPS INTO "A" PILLAR TRIM AS NECESSARY.
f. Remove the right and left visors and visor pivot stops.
g. Remove the sun roof switch bezel.
h. Move the rear view mirror aside and lower the front of the headliner approximately 6 inches.
NOTE:
USE CARE WHEN LOWERING HEADLINER TO PREVENT DAMAGE.
i. Replace the Motor/ECU assembly with p/n MR599682.
j. Confirm sun roof operation before re-assembling vehicle.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
TIME ALLOWANCE:
FAILURE CODE: