Programming Your New Sentry Key

Note: All Sentry Keys included with the vehicle are pre-programmed to work with the Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) when shipped from the factory. The Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) can be programmed to recognize up to a total of 8 Sentry Keys. When programming a blank Sentry Key transponder, the key must be cut to match the ignition switch lock cylinder in the vehicle for which it will be used. Once the additional or new key has been cut, the SKIM must be programmed to recognize it as a valid Key.

1. Have your blank key(s) cut to match the ignition lock cylinder.

2. Insert one of the two valid Sentry Keys 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 longer than 3 seconds, but no more than 15 seconds, cycle the ignition back to the OFF position. Replace the first valid Sentry Key in the ignition cylinder with the second valid Sentry Key and turn the ignition switch back to the ON position. The second valid Sentry Key must be inserted in the lock cylinder within 15 seconds of removing the first valid Key.

4. In approximately 10 seconds, the security indicator in the instrument cluster will start to flash to indicate that the system has entered the Learn programming mode.

5. Within 60 seconds of entering the Learn programming mode, turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and replace the second valid Sentry Key with your new unprogrammed key. Turn the ignition switch back to the ON position.

6. About 10 seconds after the completion of Step 5, the security indicator will stop flashing, stay on solid for 3 seconds, then turn off to indicate that the new Sentry Key has been successfully programmed. The SKIS will immediately exit the Customer Learn programming mode. After the ignition is cycled the vehicle can be started using the newly programmed Sentry Key.

Note: If an attempt is made to start the vehicle while in the Customer Learn mode (security indicator flashing), the SKIS will respond as thought the vehicle were being started with an invalid key. In other words, the engine will stall after about 2 seconds of operation. No faults will be set. Once a Sentry Key has been programmed as a valid key to a vehicle, it cannot be programmed as a valid key for use on any other vehicle.