When Chrysler introduced their transponder-based anti-theft system for the 1996 model year, they required an individualized four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) in order to program additional transponder-equipped keys or erase and program transponder-equipped keys from each and every vehicle. Chrysler vehicles include Dodge, Plymouth, Eagle and Jeep.
When locksmiths first began attempting to program these vehicles, they had to become creative in order to obtain the PIN. Over the years, aftermarket companies would provide the key code and PIN using the Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.). For the 2004 model year, Chrysler introduced the CAN system that required a secondary code known as the Challenge & Response code. Over time, the multi-manufacturer transponder programming device manufacturers began offering some of these same capabilities through software.
This led to the development of the Chrysler Skim PIN Code Retrieval Tool, Lockmasters item number CHRYSKIM. The Chrysler Skim PIN Code Retrieval Tool is a software and hardware system designed to operate with a Windows based laptop computer using a USB and an OBDII cable. Once the software has been loaded onto the laptop computer, the USB cable connects the interface to the laptop. The interface contains the necessary circuitry. When programming a vehicle, the OBDII port cable is connected from the interface to the vehicle at the OBDII port.
To begin operation, the software is launched and confirms the connection via the lit green USB tab on the bottom of the screen. Look for the “USB device is Connected” message on the screen. This assures you that your laptop computer and the interface are communicating properly.
The next step is to choose the appropriate vehicle (protocol) from the drop-down menu. If the vehicle is not listed, look for a similar vehicle that uses the same system. If you choose the wrong vehicle, you will simply get an error message and have to choose a different vehicle.
Note: Technical support says that you cannot damage the vehicle or your tool using the trial and error method.
If the vehicle is a CAN vehicle, which includes the new FOBIK vehicles, select “AUTO IDENTIFY” and the software should auto-detect the appropriate protocol for the vehicle model. If you are dealing with a Type 1 or SKREEM vehicle, you will have to use the included clip to make a direct connection to the circuit board inside the SKIM module.
Highlight the “Read Skim” option and the tool will identify the vehicle and give you the module identification number.
Note: For most locksmith operations, the module identification number will not be needed, but this step indicates you have connected the interface correctly, and have chosen the correct protocol.
Press the “Continue Operation” option and the SKIM number will be displayed. The SKIM number is also known as the “PIN Number” or the “Immobilizer Code.” This is the required four-digit number in order to program a new key.
Depending on the vehicle, you may be able to program the key into the vehicle directly by using the interface tool, or you may disconnect the Chrysler Skim PIN Code Retrieval Tool. A Chrysler or multi-function transponder programming device such as the TKO, T-Code PRO, or MVP Pro will be required to program the key(s) to the vehicle.
Updates are free to registered owners of the interface. In fact, in order to make sure that you always have the latest version of the software, no software is shipped with the interface. Once you have registered your unit, you must download the latest software to your computer before you can use the device.
Note: New features are being added to the software constantly so be sure to check the web site for updates often.
The Chrysler Skim PIN Code Retrieval Tool currently programs type 2 SENTRY keys, CAN keys and FOBIK system equipped vehicles.
Lockmasters provided the Chrysler Skim PIN Code Retrieval Tool for this article. For more information contact Lockmasters at telephone 800-654-0637 or Web site www.lockmasters.com.
