The long version and some details are below, but my general question is - has anyone ever heard of the antitheft system causing other sensor or electrical issues. I am trying to find out if my problem is a comedy (or tragedy) of coincidence or known potential issue/link with the antitheft system.

Here are the details. The truck is a 2007 Dakota SLT 3.7L V6, automatic.

My son tried to start the car with a bad spare key several times and the antitheft system kicked in (starts for 2 seconds and shuts off and the steering wheel locks). He then gets the right key, antitheft system goes off, everything is fine. A few hours later he is driving down the highway and the at about 50mph and it won't shift into the next gear and running at 3500-4000rpm. Then the power steering goes out (not frozen) just hard to turn the wheel.

The only code is P0760 - shift solenoid C

Other details. I tried online instructions to reset the computer and nothing changes. The transmission fluid levels were normal and the fluid looks clean, no previous rough shifter or anything like that. The power steering fluid levels were good, but it was very dirty. I flushed the power steering fluid but no change. The belt is fairly new and shows no sign of wear or being loose. The power steering pump has not been making any noise.

So, before I replace the solenoid pack or valve body and put on a new power steering pump I wanted to ask if anyone has heard of some link between these kinds of problems and the antitheft system or if this is just a coincidence to drive me a little crazy.

Thanks in advance for any help.

 

Not sure how old your son is, but we've all been there at a young age. Take dads truck out, having fun doing donuts and stuff and something breaks. I was doing the speed limit when it happened

 

Lol !!!