Description & Operation

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. See AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS - TRUCKS article. DO NOT apply electrical power to any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag system. Air bag may deploy.

NOTE: For information on Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS), see ANTI-THEFT SYSTEMS - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER article. For information on memory seat and mirrors systems on Town & Country models, see MEMORY SYSTEMS - TOWN & COUNTRY article. For information on power door locks, see POWER DOOR LOCKS & LIFTGATE RELEASE - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER article.

The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system allows for locking and unlocking of the vehicle doors, activation of VTSS panic alarm (if equipped), and illumination of entry system (for approximately 30 seconds) using a hand-held transmitter. Additionally, the RKE system activates the pre-programmed memory seat, mirrors and radio station presets on Town & County Limited models. RKE can also open and close power sliding doors and power liftgate, if equipped.

The RKE module (receiver) communicates commands to Body Control Module (BCM). BCM determines if action should be taken and controls system operation. BCM does not communicate with RKE module.

The RKE module may receive signals from 4 transmitters. Each transmitter has its own Vehicle Access Code (VAC) which is stored in RKE module memory. If the transmitter is replaced, VAC has to be programmed into memory. The RKE module is capable of retaining up to 4 VACs in memory even when power is removed. The hand-held transmitter will operate within approximately 23 ft. (7 m) of RKE module. The transmitter has 2 replaceable 3-volt batteries (2016).

Basic RKE transmitter has 3 buttons for operation: LOCK, UNLOCK and PANIC button. System can be programmed with various options. See PROGRAMMING . UNLOCK button will unlock the driver's door and activate the illuminated entry system. On models with VTSS, it will also deactivate VTSS. The LOCK button will lock all doors and activate VTSS. PANIC button on remote control will activate VTSS for approximately 3 minutes when pressed. Alarm can be terminated if PANIC button on remote control is pressed again or ignition is turned on.

High-line RKE transmitter has 6 buttons for operation: LOCK, UNLOCK, LEFT SLIDING DOOR, RIGHT SLIDING DOOR, POWER LIFTGATE and PANIC button. Sliding doors and liftgate buttons operate each component. For information on power sliding doors and liftgate, see POWER SLIDING SIDE DOORS & LIFTGATE - CARAVAN, TOWN & COUNTRY, & VOYAGER article.