I bought a 2008 Chrysler Pacifica used back in May of 2010. Never had any trouble with it until about a month and half ago. I tried to start it and it gave me the message "invalid key & fob". I know this is a safety feature, but it's very aggravating.. We have replaced the battery in the key and the car now but it still does it. It doesn't happen every time I try to start, just random. Is the chip in my key going bad or something else?? PLEASE HELP

 

Try using the spare key for a few days. If the problem persistes, You have an issue with the WCM, Not being able to interpret key codes.

The battery has NOTHING to do with STARTING functions.....The battery is for RKE functions only

 

I dont have a spare key..that is the only one I received when I bought the car. Can you please explain what the WCM is?

 

Wireless Control Module WCM, is a computer that performs the key/start security functions. On your 2008, it's actually the part you stick the fob in. About 2X3X3 box. When you stick the key in, it recieves signal from the transponder in the key and then the WCM sends a message to the PCM to allow start functions. You should have a spare key. Go get one programmed. Usually the readout will say BAD KEY if the transponder is faulty. You probably have a WCM issue. It could go both ways.

 

I don't have a spare key and I haven't seen anywhere in my car where the FOB goes. This is all new to me. I have had the car since May and others are telling me the chip inside my key is going bad and I need a new key. I am trying to avoid having to by another key at a cost of $200 or more. Is the WCM something easy to fix? Also, where would I find where the fob goes in?

 

I still needs some answers about the message I receive when trying to start my Pacifica. I dont get this message every time, just kind of randomly. We have changed the battery in the car and the key, but it still happens. No other warnings or light come on when this happens. Please help because we are new to the Chrysler family.

 

The key will be much cheaper than a WCM......

Shame on You....you dont have a spare car key????

Consider the price of a Tow to the dealership, Plus the cost of the key , plus the cost of programming, Plus the cost of....and... and.... Well you get the point......If you Lost or damaged the only key you have ...You would be SO SCREWED...

GET A SPARE KEY.....

 

Your answer is..I don't know without having the car in front of me. It can be either a bad key or a WCM. You don't have to buy the key from the dealer, but you will need to go see them to get it programmed or if you end up needing a WCM to get that programmed also. Most independent shops won't have what's needed to fix or program that system. If you let someone work on it who doesn't know what they're doing it can cost you big time.