DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
| WARNING | Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag system. Air bag may deploy. |
The engine immobilizer system consists of an Electronic Control Module (ECM), transponder key ECU, and transponder key amplifier with transponder key coil. (Scheme 5) When ignition key is inserted in ignition, the transponder chip in the key transmits an electronic code to the transponder key amplifier. The signal is amplified, and read by the transponder key ECU. The engine will start only when the key code is the same as the code registered in the transponder key ECU. System is reset each time key is removed from ignition switch.
If a problem exists in the engine immobilizer system, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) may be stored in the Electronic Control Module (ECM), but the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on instrument cluster will not illuminate.
