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.
Principles of Operation
The vehicle security module (VSM) is on the medium speed controller area network (MS-CAN). The VSM controls the power door lock system. The VSM receives lock/unlock inputs from the door lock control switches. When the VSM receives an lock/unlock command from any door lock control switch, the VSM activates the door lock actuators. The VSM also controls the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter lock/unlock and will activate the panic alarm (horn sounding and park lights flashing intermittently in regular intervals) when the panic button on the RKE transmitter is pressed. Refer to HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS article.
The VSM receives wireless signal from both the RKE transmitters and the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) using the same internal TPMS/RKE antenna located inside the VSM.
The VSM sends an interior lamp request signal to the instrument cluster (IC) when the doors are unlocked using the RKE transmitter. All of the door ajar signals are monitored by the VSM using the CAN to determine if it should send a signal to the IC to turn off the interior lamps when the doors are locked using the RKE transmitter. If all of the doors are closed, and the RKE transmitter lock button is pressed, the VSM will send a signal to the IC to turn off the interior lamps. If one or more doors are detected open by the door ajar switches input to the VSM, then the VSM will not send a signal to the IC to turn off the interior lamps and they will stay on.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.