Circle 106 on Reader Service Card
through the vehicle personalization set-
tings in the driver information center may
require consulting the owner's manual. Also
be sure the vehicle is not in "valet" mode.
If the valet switch has been activated, the
RVS system will be disabled.
If these quick checks do not uncover the
problem, plug in a scan tool. Scan the PCM
data frst. The PCM will disable the RVS
under the following conditions:
• Current DTC that illuminates MIL is set
• Vehicle is not in "Park"
• Accelerator pedal position tops 0%
• Engine rpm is higher than zero
• Coolant temperature is excessively high
• Vehicle speed is detected
Next scan the BCM data. The BCM will
disable the RVS under the following
conditions:
• Current hood ajar DTC is set, or hood is open
• Current hazard switch DTC is set, or
hazard switch is on
• Current vehicle theft deterrent DTC is set
• Current automatic transmission shift lock
control DTC is set
• Trunk or door is open
• Door is not locked
• Key is in ignition
• Vehicle power mode is incorrect
Some scan tools have a remote start dis-
able history data list where the above data
can be viewed in one convenient place.
If any parameter indicates a malfunction,
repair the problem and then retest the RVS.
When diagnosing an RVS system, keep in
mind the system will be disabled after two
remote starts have been commanded. An
ignition key cycle will be necessary before
another RVS event can occur.
Remote vehicle start is here to stay and
it will become standard equipment on an
increasing number of vehicles. If you have
a basic understanding of how the system
works and you have a good scan tool, you
can add RVS repair to your list of favorite
diagnostic money makers! ●
(Information courtesy of Identifx Inc. For
more information, see www.identifx.com.)
The Tech Bench