Theory Of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The Passive Entry (PE) antenna units allow the transmitter within the Radio Frequency Hub (also known as the RF Hub) to communicate via Low Frequency (LF) radio transmission with a Frequency Operated Button with Integrated Key (FOBIK) that is located inside the vehicle or, at most, about 2 meters (6.5 feet) horizontally in all directions around the outside of the vehicle. The RF Hub uses communication through the antenna units to wake up and challenge a FOBIK that is within range in order to authenticate whether that FOBIK is valid (programmed) to the vehicle. The RF Hub communicates with the FOBIK using Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) modulation.

Each antenna unit has two dedicated connections to the RF Hub. One connection is the LF antenna output circuit, while the other connection Is the LF antenna return circuit. These circuits to each antenna unit are a twisted pair to help reduce the potential for induced electrical interference. The RF Hub microcontroller monitors all of the antenna units and will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any fault that it detects.

The hard wired inputs and outputs of the antenna units may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. However, the most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the antenna units requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.