Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Keyless Entry System Description and Operation: Notes
The keyless entry system is a vehicle entry device. The keyless entry system is used in conjunction with the body control module (BCM) to remotely activate certain vehicle features. Keyless entry will lock/unlock the doors/liftgate, operate the power liftgate (if equipped), or release the liftglass when a corresponding button on the keyless entry transmitter is pressed. This is accomplished by the transmitter sending a radio frequency to the remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR). The RCDLR interprets the signal and activates the requested function via a serial data message to the BCM. A low transmitter or vehicle battery or radio frequency (RF) interference from aftermarket devices, such as 2-way radios, power inverters, computers, etc., may cause a system malfunction. High RF traffic areas may also cause interference that could lead to a malfunction. Keyless entry allows you to operate the following components:
- Door locks
- Liftgate lock
- Power liftgate, if equipped
- Liftglass, if equipped
- Remote vehicle starting, if equipped
- Illuminated entry lamps
- Vehicle locator/Panic alarm
The keyless entry system has the following components:
- Keyless entry transmitters
- Keyless entry antenna, if equipped
- BCM
- RCDLR
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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