Security system problem

Tiny
JHAWKFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 3.8L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 184,000 MILES
The "Sentry" security system on my van listed above STX trim van never flashes anymore, which came to my attention when I couldn't program a replacement key recently. I had a locksmith come out unlock and make me a key when I lost mine a few years ago, and I cannot remember the system flashing after that. How did the locksmith technician gain access, to program the replacement key to match the ignition? More importantly, what did he forget to do to re-enable the system and how do I do it?
Monday, September 14th, 2020 AT 3:20 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
4DRTOM
  • MECHANIC
  • 467 POSTS
Hello,

Locksmiths I believe have licences and they get access to information to do there job. Currently is it just the light flashing that your trying to take care of or are you having trouble starting your car or disengaging the alarm?

Common communication problems:
- Two transponder keys too close together.
- Speed Pass too close to transponder key. Solid indicator that there is a system failure.
- Loss of PCM communication.
- Failed antenna circuit.

Here is an article on remote key programming:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-re-program-a-key-remote-fob

Here is what they say about programming you new key.
PROGRAMMING THE IGNITION KEYS TO THE SKREEM

1. Turn the ignition on (transmission in park/neutral).
2. Use the DRBIII(R) and select THEFT ALARM, SKREEM, then MISCELLANEOUS.
3. Select PROGRAM IGNITION KEYS.
4. Enter secured access mode by entering the vehicle four-digit PIN.

NOTE: A maximum of eight keys can be learned to each SKREEM AT ONE TIME. Once a key is learned to a SKREEM it (the key) cannot be transferred to another vehicle.

If ignition key programming is unsuccessful, the DRBIII(R) will display one of the following messages:

Programming Not Attempted - The DRBIII(R) attempts to read the programmed key status and there are no keys programmed in the SKIM memory.

Programming Key Failed - (Possible Used Key From Wrong Vehicle)
- SKREEM is unable to program key due to one of the following:
- faulty ignition key transponder
- ignition key is programmed to another vehicle.

8 Keys Already Learned, Programming Not Done - SKIM transponder ID memory is full.

1. Obtain ignition keys to be programmed from customer (8 keys maximum)
2. Using the DRBIII(R), erase all ignition keys by selecting MISCELLANEOUS and ERASE ALL CURRENT IGN. KEYS
3. Program all ignition keys.

Learned Key In Ignition - Ignition key transponder ID is currently programmed in SKREEM memory.

Let me now if this helps out.
Tom
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Monday, September 14th, 2020 AT 8:46 PM
Tiny
JHAWKFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
So far as I can tell, the alarm system is not functioning, or is partially disabled. I am able to operate the car normally. There is never a flashing light when the car is locked, nor will the key programming method in the owners manual work anymore. Key programming does not require any kind of pin for the 2005. Instead one must have a key that works to perform a ritualistic set of steps, swapping out the new key and the working key. There is no mention in the owners manual of a maximum number of keys (might be getting close if it is 8) that can be programmed and I get no warning message. So if I reach the limit, can the limit be reset? How would having the two sliding door locks that don't actuate influence the system sensor inputs? (The car does detect when those doors are ajar, but I don't know if that is a separate set of inputs.)
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Monday, September 14th, 2020 AT 10:27 PM
Tiny
JHAWKFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
After, carefully rereading your post and my response, I have a few more questions. Where does one get the vehicle 4-digit PIN to enter the secured access mode? Is the DRBIII(R) tool common with those other than the dealer, like the locksmith or would the locksmith have something equivalent to do the same thing? If the Skreem programmable registers are cleared, can the existing keys be added back to the registers or must they be replaced?
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Wednesday, September 16th, 2020 AT 10:37 PM
Tiny
JHAWKFRED
  • MEMBER
  • 8 POSTS
So I am tempted to try the "reset" procedure. Is there a downside to doing this, like bricking the PCM or SKREEM?
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Wednesday, September 16th, 2020 AT 10:42 PM
Tiny
4DRTOM
  • MECHANIC
  • 467 POSTS
Hello,

You should be fine doing the reset and you will probably need the VIN and your registration to contact the dealer to get your pin number.
Here is the description of the system and I have attached diagrams to help get you through this.

POWER SLIDING DOOR
The Power Sliding Door (PSD) system is activated through the use of the following: Remote Key-less Entry (RKE), overhead console switches, B pillar switches or the DRBIII(R). These inputs are hardwired to the body control module (BCM) and can be monitored with a diagnostic tool. The BCM will send the message via PCI bus to the power sliding door module (PSDM). The sliding door must be in the full open or full closed position to operate. Once the BCM sends a button activation message to the PSDM, the module shall read all inputs, outputs and vehicle conditions to determine whether it shall open, close or inhibit the PSD operation. During an opening or closing cycle, the PSDM can detect an obstacle present should it meet sufficient resistance by the hall effect sensors (integrated in the drive motor).

During an open cycle, multiple door activation's (RKE, overhead console, B pillar) are ignored until the door reaches the full open position. However, during a close cycle, a 2nd door activation (RKE, overhead console, B pillar) will reverse the door to the full open position.

If the engine is cranked during a power open-close the PSD will pause then resume after engine cranking. In addition, if the vehicle is placed in gear during an open cycle, the PSD shall reverse direction and begin closing. If the vehicle is placed in gear during a closing cycle, the PSD shall continue closing until fully closed.

If the inside or outside handle is activated during an open or close cycle, the PSD will become a full manual sliding door. The child lockout is mechanical only and has no effect on the B-pillar switch as it did in previous models.

There is only one part number for the power sliding door module (PSDM). The driver sliding door harness has an additional ground circuit which will identify it as the driver side. This eliminates the need for a left and a right side module.

DIAGNOSTIC FEATURES
The PSDM can be flashed on vehicle via PCI bus with a DRBIII(R) diagnostic tool. The DRBIII(R) can read all inputs, actuate all outputs, read module information, and read diagnostic trouble codes. As a reminder, some DTC's can be set during normal PSD operation.

SYSTEM INHIBITORS
1. Battery voltage too high or too low (above 16 V, below 9.5 V).
2. Vehicle in gear.
3. Vehicle speed 0 mph.
4. O-H console lockout will inhibit the B pillar switches.
5. Doors locked will inhibit all interior switches from opening (Overhead Console, B Pillar). A locked sliding door can be power closed.
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Friday, September 18th, 2020 AT 7:54 PM

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