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.
DTC B2721, Pass-Key(R) Detection Circuit (Out Of Range): Notes
PASS-Key(R) II detection circuit is completed when PASS-Key(R) II (with embedded resistor pellet) is inserted in ignition lock cylinder. When contacts in lock cylinder mate with contacts of resistor pellet, BCM compares resistance value of key pellet to valid resistance programmed into BCM.
If BCM determines that resistance value of key pellet is okay, BCM will use the class 2 serial data line to send a password to Powertrain Control Module (PCM). PCM will then energize theft deterrent relay and allow fuel delivery to engine.
DTC B2721 will set when resistance level of PASS-Key(R) input is one of 14 valid but incorrect resistance ranges (which signals an invalid detection) during crank cycle or for one second anytime after engine has been started.
When PASS-Key(R) II resistance is out of range during crank cycle, BCM will perform the following:
- Send a message to instrument panel to flash SECURITY warning indicator.
- Send a message to PCM to disable theft deterrent relay and to stop fuel delivery to engine.
- Disable sampling of PASS-Key(R) II resistance for a timeout period of 3 minutes.
- If ignition switch is left in RUN position for at least 3 minutes, BCM will enter theft deterrent auto-learn mode. See THEFT DETERRENT RELEARNΒ under BCM PROGRAMMING.
When PASS-Key(R) II resistance is okay during crank cycle but goes out of range later in same ignition cycle, BCM will perform the following:
- BCM will enter fail-enable mode.
- Send a message to instrument panel to flash SECURITY warning indicator.
- During subsequent engine starts, BCM will send a message to PCM to enable theft deterrent relay and to allow fuel delivery to engine.
If conditions for malfunction no longer exist, history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles. DTC B2721 will also clear when conditions no longer exist or scan tool is used to clear codes.
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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.