Your vehicle is equipped with PASS-Key® III (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III is a passive theft-deterrent system.
The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition.
You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system.
The security light will come on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system.
PASS-Key III® uses a transponder in the ignition key that matches a decoder in the vehicle.
When the PASS-Key® III system senses that the wrong key has been inserted into the ignition, it shuts down the vehicle's starter and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will stop flowing to the engine. If someone tries to start the vehicle again with the wrong key, the vehicle will not start. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be discouraged to do so because of the high number of electrical key codes.
When trying to start the vehicle, if the engine does not start and the STARTING DISABLED warning message on the Driver Information Center (DIC) comes on, there may be a problem with your theft-deterrent system. Turn the ignition off and try again.
If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers . If the engine still does not start with the other key, the vehicle needs service. If the vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer/retailer who can service the PASS-Key® III to have a new key made. In an emergency, contact Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program for more information.
It is possible for the PASS-Key® III decoder to accept the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. The following procedure is for programming additional keys only. If all the programmed keys are lost or do not operate, see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III to have keys made and programmed to the system.
To program the new key do the following:
- Verify that the new key has PK3 stamped on it.
- Insert the master key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer/retailer for service.
- After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/OFF, and remove the key.
- Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to ON/RUN within five seconds of removing the original key.
- The SERVICE THEFT SYSTEM warning message on the DIC will turn off, once the key has been programmed. It may not be apparent that the SERVICE THEFT SYSTEM warning message went on due to how quickly the key is programmed.
- Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys are to be programmed.
If the SERVICE THEFT SYSTEM warning message appears and stays on the DIC while the vehicle is being driven, the engine will be able to be restarted if it is turned off. Your PASS-Key® III system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer/retailer. The vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key® III system at this time.
If the PASS-Key® III key is lost or stolen, see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III to have a new key made.
Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.
