Jeep PCM replaced, now security key issue?

[HawkeyeScott]

Helped a coworker tonight install a refurbished PCM in his 2000 Jeep GC 4.7. He ordered the part online and sent his VIN to have it preprogrammed. So, it was supposed to plug and play.

But when we finished tonight, the Jeep won't start. Turns over but sounds like it's not getting fuel. Also, on the dash, the Sentry Key lindicator light (key with a circle around it and line through it) comes on and flashes. So it seems like it might be a security issue.

Any idea what the problem may be? Hoping to help the guy - the dealership wanted $900 to do the PCM install with a new unit. Coworker dosen't have that kind of money, so he went with the $200 remanufactred part.

Thanks a lot guys.

Scott

 

[HawkeyeScott]

Should also mention when we turn the key on (but not to the cranking position) there's a tick-tick-tick sound coming from under the hood. Seems like it's not just one particular part that it's coming from, but in several places in the engine compartment.

 

[Doog]

Send the part back for another one.

 

[bdcardinal]

If it is like a Ford PCM, even if it is already "flashed" the keys have to be programmed to the new PCM via a scan tool.

 

[crazyoildude]

Im pretty sure the keys need to be programmed

 

[asand1]

Often the keys are not programmable, the ECM is programmed to recognize individual keys. If the original ECM were programmed for spare or new keys, the VIN would not allow for this. Call around for a locksmith with the proper scanner for programming keys and ECMs.

 

[eljefino]

Is part of the VIN flash removing the security routine? It should be, on a 15 y/o car.

I went through something similar with a 2000 caravan, but ultimately failed. Check your +5 and +8v sensor feeds for something dragging down the computer. if they aren't nearly exactly their rated voltages, you have a shorted sensor, go find which one.

You can rent a DRB-III (mopar dealer computer) for $150 for 3 days, painful, I know.

But this should rest on the computer vendor. They'll provide tech support, or go out of business.

 

[SwampSurvivor]

Ugh. Chrysler.

We went through this when the TIPM failed on the 08 Wrangler.

 

[rshaw125]

It should work. call the people who did the reman. Typically it's better to have the original PCM repaired locally. Then the keys not working will not be an issue.

 

[01rangerxl]

Like a couple others mentioned, it sounds like the PCM is not recognizing the key(s) the owner is using.

Is the key a factory original, or is it one that was cut and added any time after leaving the factory?

A reflash will only put in whatever parameters the vehicle left the factory with, or updates the manufacturer released. If a dealer cut and added a key in 2006, that particular key is only learned to that particular PCM. The reman PCM with a fresh flash has no idea of that key's existence. As far as it's concerned, you are jamming a screw driver into the cylinder.

Does the owner have any spare keys? Maybe try those to see if one will start it.

If no spares, or no spares will work, the keys need to be learned to the new PCM. The key itself doesn't get programmed, the PCM gets updated to recognize that particular key's resistor/transponder as "OK."