I have been having problems with the passkey system (the chip embedded in the key). About one time in three, the car refuses to start. I have to wait three minutes before the security light goes out and I can try to start the car again. I sat at the carwash this morning for about 10 minutes before I could get the car started.

I have tried both sets of keys, and neither works any better. Is there a way to disable this thing? I searched, but couldn't find it.

They call it a "theft deterrent system", but it seems more like a "owner deterrent system". It keeps me from driving my own !@#!@#!@ car. I pity the poor thieves that try to steal it. I can't start it and I have the key.

 

I have heard that after a while the metal edges on the chip wear down, so it doesn't always make contact.

 

www.acaenterprises.com/PASSII.html

 

Often times it's the ignition cylinder itself that wears out. Try spraying some contact cleaner in it, but most likely you'll have to replace it. It is possible to bypass the system with a resistor of the same fixed value as the key.

 

I am going to try the contact cleaner. It probably didn't help this morning that the guy at the car wash left the keys sitting on top of the wet tires while he dried the car off.

Thanks for the replies.

BRAD

 

Here is a little tip ive learned. When you put the key in, wait a half second before turning. If you put it in and turn real real fast, the computer doesnt have time to read the key. Since I started doing this, it has never happened to me again.

 

if i remember right you were never supposed to get the chip wet and if you did you weren't suppose to stick it in the ignition without drying it real well first.. im always careful about that if its raining or something.. just a thought..