Skim?

cook2790 · Post by **cook2790** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 8:50 pm

So I've got a 2003 dodge neon with a skim problem.
My main key was stolen with my backpack while I was at work, and all I have is the spare, which is throwing a code. P 0513
Is there any way around this?
Removing this skim crap somehow?
Can I get a pre ngc PCM from a junkyard or something? I don't know how this stuff works yet, but if you guys could give me some ideas..
Would megasquirt get me around this issue? Lol
I'd rather invest in ms than pay $250 for the new key to be worked over at the stealership....

NickKo · Post by **NickKo** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 9:39 pm

Unfortunately, you may be 'stuck' with a SKIM system - As Far As I Know, the SKIM feature came "standard" on all NGC-era Neons.
There is no easy way to 'backdate' to a pre-NGC PCM.

I don't know if Megasquirt will allow you to bypass the SKIM system or not.
'Esteinmaier' would know.

- Nick

stdlystdmufn · Post by **stdlystdmufn** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 10:52 pm

yep you can bypass the skim module with MS

If you find a PCM from a NGC car then you can swap it in but you will pay at least an hours worth of labor from the dealer to program your VIN into it.

OR maybe you could buy a bypass module for an aftermarket alarm.

Post by **occasional demons** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 10:52 pm

You can get keys from Ebay for much less. But you are still stuck with having the dealer/SKIM equipped locksmith program it. May as well get two, and have them both done.

If you don't care about the security feature then tape the extra key inside the column by the receiver. Then a standard key will always start the car.

stdlystdmufn · Post by **stdlystdmufn** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 11:13 pm

you may even try to have them erase all ignition keys and erase all FOBs (this will prevent the a-hole that stole it from getting into it) then have them reprogram the spare key. (sometimes it works as long as the key was previously programmed to that SKIM like yours is)

as far as what OD said, i would obviously be careful and only buy from a reutable ebay dealer. we get people come into the dealership all the time with ebay keys that won't program either because they were previously programmed or defective keys.

cook2790 · Post by **cook2790** » Mon Apr 09, 2012 11:17 pm

Well, I have a spare, but apparently that's not all programmed into my PCM.. I'm looking into what my cheapest options are, and debating ms if im already spending too much for what seems like nothing. At least I'd gain some features if I dump $500 or so for ms

Post by **occasional demons** » Tue Apr 10, 2012 7:43 am

If the spare is not a tan colored key, it likely does not have a chip in it, and cannot be programmed.

Or if it was just cut, and not programmed... but you would not get a chipped key for $1.50 w/e the normal cost is in your area. I believe some key cutting stations might carry chipped keys, but they may not be able to program them.

r/tguy02 · Post by **r/tguy02** » Tue Apr 10, 2012 8:18 am

i think you meant grey bill, i've never seen a tan skim key

Post by **occasional demons** » Tue Apr 10, 2012 9:34 am

Technicalities! I don't have that problem,and have seen them referred to as either gray or tan. I only haz black ones.

cook2790 · Post by **cook2790** » Tue Apr 10, 2012 11:47 am

Well, turns out a guy I work with has a locksmith friend that will drive out to where I live, supply me with a new key and code it and all that jazz for $100

I'm thinking that sounds like a pretty sweet deal, so I guess my questions are all solved.
This sucker should be running again Friday!

Danteneon · Post by **Danteneon** » Tue Apr 10, 2012 12:05 pm

Just to clarify the key color issue...the security keys used on the Neon are gray (but they turn kinda brown after a couple years). Chrysler did introduce a new security key (called SKRIS iirc) that were tan in color. They are not interchangeable.

/geekasm