Hello! Just purchased a 2005 Crossfire Limited in very good condition with 75k miles(see my new member thread!). The car has been sitting at least 5 months. With a jumper, the engine starts - but dies after 2 seconds. I installed a new battery and pulled the RCM and, although it looked good, resoldered the infamous 3 "suspect" connectors. Car again starts for 2 seconds and dies. Someone suggested that the key fob has a bad anti-theft chip in it, but my locksmith confirmed that the fob only locks/unlocks - no chip. I've ordered a new Smith RCM and will install upon arrival. BUT - any other ideas as to my 2 second starts? Thanks for any help - I'm anxious to put this jewel back on the road!

 

The key should have a chip. I would think the car would not even start for 2 seconds without, but I don't know this for sure. If you only have one key, you should order a spare.
You should always have a spare RCM even if it not the issue. You will need it eventually. A Smith RCM? What part number is it?
Take a look at threads about the SKREEM if the RCM does not solve your issue.

 

Welcome to the Crossfire world. I made an offer on the car you purchased. Seems like a decent car, except it doesn't run. I'm no expert, but do have two Crossfires, one of which is a project. My personal opinion is that the keys and SKEEM security module are not communicating, thus the car will only run for that two second startup. I have a spare RCM if you would like to borrow it to see if it helps the problem. But, my guess is it is not the issue. There are a very few companies that repair this problem. I believe Needwings and a couple others do such repairs. It usually entails sending your keys, Skreem and computer to the company you choose so that they can sync the keys and other components to again be able to communicate with each other. Like the previous poster said, you need those chips in the keys so the antenna ring can identify the key and send its info to the Skreem which then allows the car to start and keep running. If the security module can't identify the key, then it thinks the car is being stolen and shuts it down. You can research lots more info on this site about this problem. There are lots of problem solvers here that are very capable and willing to lend their knowledge. I know they all want us to do a search since most of these problems have occurred and been solved before.
Good luck with fixing the issues. It can be a real challenge. Let me know if you want to borrow the RCM. I will be in Astoria tomorrow and we can meet up if you wish. I'm Bryan.















good luck

 

You can call the Mercedes Swap Shop if it does turn out to be the SKREEM. They are very good with electronic issues.

 

Hi Bryan, I'm Mike and would like to meet you to discuss some of these issues. What time are you available to meet in Astoria?

 

Mike, see my response in the private message you sent me.