QuestionA 1999 Jeep Sport Wrangler had an after-factory-alarm system with no reset key. First the headlamps started to flash for no reason, then after starting it about 4 or 5 times it would only turn over by push starting it. I was told that it didn't start because the ignition was broken, but found out later that alarm system shutdown the vehicle's ignition. Is this possible? I am being sued for "breaking the ignition" by turning the key to hard. Please help.
AnswerYes, this vehicle has the "snart key" system
from Chrysler/Diemler Benz. If the ignition reader
is broken, then they may have a case.
The issue here is can it be reset?
My first thought is that the ignition
switch reader has worn out over time,
and does not recognize the key transponder
"chip" any more. Jeep can fix it, and
there are bypass mehtods using modules
designed to circumvent it, but these "fixes"
probably won't fix a broken switch.
You might have broken the reader using too much presure,
but it's unlikely. It's more likely the part
was waring out, and finally "snapped" while you
were using it.
Sorry without inspection, I can't say for sure,
but I'd go for the "hot potato" defense on this
one. Was going to happen, just a matter of who
and when. Wish I had better news for ya.
:>| Hope for the best.
ALARMTEK
