Keyless Entry: Description and Operation

RKE/VTSS
The highline CTM provides for Remote Keyless Entry (RKE). The base CTM is not able to provide these functions. The presence of this option dictates that the vehicle is equipped with a high line CTM. The VTSS system monitors the door jamb switches and ignition switch to detect unauthorized entry into the vehicle. Once the vehicle is "armed", any one of these inputs can cause the VTSS system to be tripped. Once tripped, the horn and lights will pulse for 3 minutes and if an attempt is made to start the engine, it will start and stall. If the trigger condition is still present, the lights will continue to flash and return to the "armed" state. The cause of the last 4 alarm triggers is stored by the CTM and may be retrieved by the DRB. The system may be disarmed by either an unlock command from a valid RKE key fob or by using a key in either door. Both front door key cylinders are equipped with disarm switches. There is also a VTSS led on the overhead console that provides information to the driver about the state of the vehicle theft system.

The RKE system is placed in the programming mode by the DRB. The system will store up to four key fob codes. Through the DRB, programming of one key fob without deleting the others is possible. If the key fob is stole, all the fob codes stored previously may be erased to provide the owner of the vehicle with an extra sense of security.

The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system is a radio frequency system that allows the use of a remote battery-powered radio transmitter to control the power lock system. On vehicles with the RKE option, the power locks can be operated by depressing the Lock or Unlock buttons of the RKE transmitter. If the vehicle is so equipped, the RKE transmitter also arms and disarms the factory-installed vehicle theft alarm. Refer to Vehicle Theft/Security Systems for more information on the optional vehicle theft alarm.

The RKE system includes an illuminated entry feature, which turns on the courtesy lamps for a timed interval (about thirty seconds), when the power door locks are unlocked using the RKE transmitter. The RKE system for this vehicle also features a programmable horn chirp and a panic feature. The programmable horn chirp feature allows the enabling or disabling of the horn chirp request that the RKE receiver issues as an audible indication that a valid Lock signal has been received from the RKE transmitter. The panic feature allows the vehicle operator to cause the horn to pulse, the headlights to flash and the courtesy lamps to light for about three minutes by depressing the Panic button on the RKE transmitter.

The RKE system can retain the vehicle access codes of up to four RKE transmitters. The transmitter codes are retained in RKE system memory, even if the battery is disconnected. If a transmitter is faulty or is lost, new transmitter vehicle access codes can be programmed into the system using a DRB III scan tool as described in the proper Diagnostic Procedures.

The RKE system consists of the key fob remote radio transmitter and a radio receiver with program logic, which is integral to the high-line or premium versions of the Central Timer Module (CTM).

Following are general descriptions of the major components in the RKE system. Refer to the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more information on the features, use and operation of the RKE system.