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.
Section 11 (Remote Keyless Entry Systems): Description
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system is controlled by Remote Function Actuation (RFA) system. Transmitter allows remote control of various vehicle functions without physical contact of any switches on the vehicle. RFA functions include lock and unlock of both doors, turning panic alarm ON or OFF, arming or disarming alarm, opening hatch or trunk, turning on vehicle's parking lights (approach, courtesy), activating memory features (with memory option only), and programming Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) system.
RFA system consists of a transmitter located in drivers key fob, a remote control door lock receiver located in left rear quarter panel, and an integral antenna. See Fig 1 . The RFA system does not directly control system functions. RFA system uses one of the following systems to perform driver commands:
- Body Control Module (BCM) for Universal Theft Deterrent (UTD), hatch release, horn and vehicle light control.
- Door Control Module (DCM) for all door lock functions.
- Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) for RFA system programming and vehicle personalization functions.
When RFA system receives a transmitter command, a message is sent through the serial data line to applicable system module.
RFA system should be used as a supplement to vehicle's conventionally operated lock/unlock system. RFA system could be disabled due to radio frequency interference or a low transmitter battery. Always maintain vehicle access with a door key. The remote control door lock receiver receives and transmits information to other vehicle systems to perform specific functions.
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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.