Tizzy1, thanks again for your help. We know the vehicle did not come with a SKIM from the factory - but it's there now right under the steering wheel and was unplugged.

I know this is a bit of rehashing, but all was well until I plugged the immobilizer in by accident after repairing the turn signal stalk. I had 3 short starts with a blinking VTSS lamp - then a solid lamp and a no-run condition since then. The vehicle did not come with transponder keys.

While a hood switch does exist, I do not recall this lamp blinking when parked/locked. - so I never gave an anti-theft system a thought until this happened.

Is it possible that a replacement ECM, without plugging in the SKIM, would get this vehicle running again? I realize there are after market modules intended for remote start that are said to "trick" (my quotes) the system into thinking all is well - would this be an option? (heck, I'd install a remote keyless start system if needed).

Or - buy a boneyard SKIM/key/tumbler bundle?

Thanks,

Alan

 

The problem you have is you can't program keys to the skim because you don't know the code for it. You would need the vin from the vehicle the module came out of. The red dot in the dash is the vtss indicator, correct. That is also the indicator for a bad key. After trying to start 3 times with a bad key it will stop turning over. I still think your cheapest option is to replace the skim module. When you install a new module, you program the pin into it so you can enter the code for your vehicle. Then you would be able to program a grey headed key to the skim and should be good to go. Otherwise you need to replace the PCM and remove the skim module. Have to assume skim module is cheaper by a long shot. I also don't think you could use a used skim but not possitive. they store the vin but may be reprogrammable. If you go with a used one, you will need the vin for the vehicle it came out of to get the program code.

Oh, and in order to get a remote start to work, you also have to program it to the skim, same issue, different device.

 

Ok, I have a related question..2006 caravan... Today I hit the unlock button on my key and the alarm went off! now I cant get it to stop. Tried drive door lock, tried turning the key, tried other key I have wont turn it off, I have a valet switch but not sure how to use it, tried disconnecting the battery for a bit...nothing is working. If I get in the car and start it the alarm will time out good thing so I could get home from work, but as soon as I open the door alarm goes off again? If anyone has a fix it would be greatly appreciated.

 

If you have a valet switch, it is an add on alarm. Need to know what kind