RKE and/or Saturn Security System Inoperative at Temperatures above 36 Degrees Celsius

Some 1996 & 1997 Saturns equipped with the remote keyless entry (RKE) or remote Keyless entry/Saturn security system (RKE/SSS) may exhibit a significant reduction in transmitter/receiver operating range during high vehicle interior temperatures of approximately 36°C (95°F) or above. This loss of range may be perceived as an inoperative condition. The transmitter/receiver may function normally once the vehicle interior temperature cools below 36°C (95°F).

The loss of range may be due to an increase in internal resistance within the RKE or RKE/SSS module.

For 1996 Vehicles: If the condition is verified as heat related, replace the suspected RKE module. Refer to the 1996 Revised Electrical Service Manual for removal and installation procedures.

If the condition is not heat related, refer to 1996 Revised Electrical Service Manual for further diagnosis.

For 1997 Vehicles: If the condition is verified as heat related, replace the suspected RKE/SSS module with P/N 21024608. Refer to the 1997 Revised Electrical Service Manual for removal and installation procedures.

Refer to programming the Saturn Security System in this bulletin if the RKE module P/N 21024608 is installed in this vehicle.

If the condition is not heat related, refer to 19967 Revised Electrical Service Manual for further diagnosis.

Important: The following information is for 1996 vehicles equipped with Retailer installed RKE/SSS or 1997 vehicles that have had RKE/SSS module P/N 21024608 installed.

The Saturn Security System can be programmed to any of the following modes, however, unless otherwise requested by the customer, the Saturn Security System should be programmed to mode 1. If the customer requests the passive arming feature to be enabled, use mode 5.

* No Change indicates that feature will not be changed from what has been previously programmed into the module. Service replacement modules are set to Mode 1, but still must be programmed to the individual transmitters.

Important: The RKE or RKE/SSS module will be shipped with 2 pocket information cards and one owners manual page addendum indicating the optional mode selections and operating procedures. Forward this information to the vehicles owner.

To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System using the appropriate Electronic Labor Time Guide and Labor Operation Code R4480 (Remote Door/Rear Compartment Lock Receiver Replace).