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Collision Repair Training | Australia
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Current Events/News: Advantage Online: 2003 Archives
NEW INNOVATIONS IN KEYLESS ENTRY To operate this type of system, a transmitter, which is either a card or key fob (see Figure 1), must be within a specified range of the receiver, usually less than a meter (3 feet). An electronic code is emitted by the transmitter and checked by the receiver to make sure it corresponds with the vehicle ID code. After the code has been verified, the unlock feature will be activated when the backside of the door handle is touched. To lock doors that have this auto-lock feature, a lock button must be pressed on the outside of the front door handle (see Figure 2). All the doors will be locked provided that the code from the transmitter registers with the receiver. Once the button is pressed, typically the horn will chirp and exterior lamps may flash to indicate the vehicle is locked. On some systems, if the lock button is pushed and one of the doors is not closed securely, the horn will sound for a specific period of time. If the card or key fob is inadvertently left inside the vehicle, the doors will not lock unless the system senses another transmitter on the person who is locking the doors. Auto-Start The auto-starting feature is similar to the auto-unlock/lock system. However, the key fob must be present inside the passenger compartment for the module to activate the ignition sequence. Also, the brake pedal must be pressed and the transmission must be in PARK or NEUTRAL for the engine to turn over. The start button is located either on the gearshift handle or the instrument panel (see Figure 3). If there are battery problems on the transmitter or there is signal interference between the transmitter and receiver, a message will appear on the instrument panel or message center that states NO FOB DETECTED. Aftermarket devices, such as two-way radios, power inverters, and computers, may interfere with the signal. Keyless Entry Operation The passive entry and starting system operate using four to six low frequency antennas. The antennas have a very limited range, typically around 1.5 m (5 ft). Antennas can be located in the B-pillar, trunk area, glove box area, center console, etc. Two sets of antennas are used to operate the keyless entry function. One set is used to determine the position of the key fob/card to unlock and lock the door and the other set is used to determine the position of the card/key fob to start the vehicle. These antennas are basically used to determine the proximity of the card/key fob in relation to the vehicle, a requirement if using the keyless ignition function (see Figure 4).
Limited Repairs Potential collision damage to this system may include damaged:
While damaged wiring may be repaired following standard wire repair procedures, all other parts require replacement if it is determined that they are damaged. Conclusion The new keyless entry system allows vehicle entry and vehicle startup without the use of a mechanical key or pressing a button on a standard key fob. Using several antennas, the vehicle is able to determine the position of the electronic card or key fob in relation to the vehicle. This allows the vehicle owner to open a door without having to physically unlock it. It also allows the driver to start the vehicle simply by pressing a push button inside the passenger compartment. A thorough understanding of this type of keyless entry is required to determine correct repair procedures. In addition, the systems complexity requires using scan tools and a service manual to make any repairs to the system. |
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