Jeep Cherokee (XJ): Service procedures

SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM TRANSPONDER PROGRAMMING

Two programmed Sentry Key transponders are included with the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) when it is shipped from the factory. The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) can be programmed to recognize up to six additional transponders, for a total of eight Sentry Keys. The following "Customer Learn" programming procedure for the programming of additional transponders requires access to at least two of the valid Sentry Keys. If two valid Sentry Keys are not available, Sentry Key programming will require the use of a DRB scan tool and the proper Diagnostic Procedures manual.

CUSTOMER LEARN

(1) Obtain the additional Sentry Key transponder blank(s) that are to be programmed for the vehicle. Cut the additional Sentry Key transponder blanks to match the ignition lock cylinder mechanical key codes.

(2) Insert one of the two valid Sentry Key transponders into the ignition switch and turn the ignition switch to the On position.

(3) After the ignition switch has been in the On position for about three seconds, but no more than fifteen seconds later, cycle the ignition switch back to the Off position. Replace the first valid Sentry Key in the ignition lock cylinder with the second valid Sentry Key and turn the ignition switch back to the On position.

(4) About ten seconds after the completion of Step 3, the SKIS indicator lamp will start to flash and a single audible chime tone will sound to indicate that the system has entered the "Customer Learn" programming mode.

(5) Within about fifty seconds of entering the "Customer Learn" programming mode, turn the ignition switch to the Off position, replace the valid Sentry Key with a blank Sentry Key transponder, and turn the ignition switch back to the On position.

(6) About ten seconds after the completion of Step 5, a single audible chime tone will sound and the SKIS indicator lamp will stop flashing and stay on solid for about three seconds to indicate that the blank Sentry Key transponder has been successfully programmed. The SKIS will immediately return to normal system operation following exit from the "Customer Learn" programming mode.

(7) Go back to Step 2 and repeat this process for each additional Sentry Key transponder blank to be programmed.

If any of the above steps is not completed in the proper sequence, or within the allotted time, the SKIS will automatically exit the "Customer Learn" programming mode. The SKIS will also automatically exit the "Customer Learn" programming mode if it sees a nonblank Sentry Key transponder when it should see a blank, if it has already programmed eight valid Sentry Keys, or if the ignition switch is turned to the Off position for more than about fifty seconds.