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.
Wireless Ignition Node
The Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) (also known as the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module/SKIM, Sentry Key REmote Entry Module/SKREEM or Wireless Control Module/WCM) contains a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver and a microprocessor. The WIN utilizes integrated circuitry to monitor numerous hard wired analog, Radio Frequency (RF) and electronic message inputs. In response to those inputs the internal circuitry and programming of the WIN allow it to control and integrate many electronic functions and features of the vehicle through both hard wired outputs and the transmission of electronic message outputs to other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Controller Area Network data bus and the Local Interface Network (LIN) data bus.
The WIN is connected to a fused B(+) circuit and receives a path to ground at all times. These connections allow it to remain functional regardless of the ignition switch position. Features and functions integral to the WIN include: ignition switch, Sentry Key Immobilizer Module/SKIM, Remote Keyless Entry/RKE, Tire Pressure Monitor/TPM, remote start system external extended range antenna input, Brake Transmission Shift Interlock/BTSI, electronic steering column lock (where required), and real time vehicle clock. For information covering details of operation for the individual functions and features controlled by the WIN, refer to the specific service information covering the system to which that function or feature belongs.
The key removal inhibit solenoid internal to the WIN prevents the FOB with Integrated Key (FOBIK) from being rotated in the ignition switch to the LOCK position for all vehicles with an automatic transmission unless the transmission shift lever is in the PARK position. The WIN module monitors a hard wired input from a switch integral to the automatic transmission shifter module to control this feature. The key removal inhibit solenoid is electronically disabled internally by the WIN on vehicles with a manual transmission.
The hard wired circuits between components related to the WIN may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin-out information and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the WIN or the electronic controls or communication between modules and other devices that provide some features of the WIN. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the WIN or the electronic controls and communication related to WIN operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.