Where to learn about bypass modules?

Ok, so all of the cars that I've done have been old enough that they haven't had any factory modules that needed to be bypassed. Now some new ones are coming around that I'm sure will have something (like a 2003 Pathfinder). I know NOTHING about this type of thing (Transponders, extra keys, bypass modules....things of that sort).

I've read so many posts on here about this topic, but I'm looking for something that will explain them from the beginning. What they do, why you need to get around them...things like that. If I have a car that has a transponder anti-theft system, and I want to install a remote starter, can't I just rip out the whole thing and put in a package unit (like a viper 550esp for example)?

Any help or pushes in the right direction would be great.

Thanks!

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The cars that require bypass modules usually have some type of chip in the key that the vehicle will sense when the car is being started with the key. A key without the correct chip will not start the vehicle. The vehicle cannot be remote started without the code being "seen" by the ignition system. There are many types of bypass modules available, and only certain one will work with certain vehicles. The bypass modules allow the car to read the code in the key while the vehile is being remote started. Some of the modules require the use of an extra key which is installed inside a little module. Other bypass assemblies learn the code that the keys have, so that the customer does not have to lose a key with the install. Basically, what the modules do is trick the vehicle into thinking that key is present when the car is being started. They are very easy to install, and generally speaking require a (-) output on remote start, 12v, and a transponder ring that goes around the key cylinder. Some require a little more than this, but installation is simple nonetheless. Hope this helps you out.

Yea, Viper, thanks....that helped a lot.

1. When you say a "transponder ring that goes around the key cylinder", what exactly is that? I'm picturing a piece of metal that wraps around where you put the key when you drive the car. Is that correct?

2. Is one preferred over the other...in terms of the modules that use an extra key or the ones that learn the code? I went to www.bulldogsecurity.com, and they have a ton of "transponder keys" that say PATS on them....I'm assuming that's what you're talking about?

Thanks for the help!!!

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Q: What's the best nation in the world?
A: Donation!     Donate to the12volt.com      

Check out www.bypasskit.com for more info

Personally, if it is possible not to stick an extra key in the vehicle, use the ones that replace the key. The transponder ring is just basically an antenna ring (just wire) that goes around the end of the ignition cylinder.

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Certified Security Specialist
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