Fiat Punto: The fiat code system

Fiat Punto Owners Manual

To further protect you car from theft, it has been fitted with an engine immobilising system. This system is automatically activated when the ignition key is removed.

An electronic device, in fact, is fitted in each ignition key grip. The device transmits a radio-frequency signal when the engine is started through a special aerial built into the ignition switch. The modulate signal, which changes each time the engine is started, is the password by means of which the control unit recognises the key and enables to start the engine.

Operation

Each time the car is started turning the ignition key to MAR, the Fiat CODE system control unit sends a recognition code to the engine control unit to deactivate the inhibitor.

The code is sent only if the Fiat CODE system control unit has recognised the code transmitted from the key.

Each time the ignition key is turned to the STOP position, the Fiat CODE system deactivates the functions of the engine electronic control unit.

At starting, if the code has not been recognised correctly, the warning light will
come on.

In this case, the key should be moved to the STOP position and then back to MAR; if the lock continues, possibly try again with the other key provided with the car. If it is still not possible to start the car, follow the instructions given in chapter “In an emergency” and then contact a Fiat Dealership.

IMPORTANT Every key has its own code, which must be memorised by the system control unit. To memorise new keys, up to a maximum of eight, apply to Fiat Dealership.

Warning light coming on when
driving

• If the warning light turns
  on, this means that the system is running a self-test (for example for a voltage drop). At the first stop, turn the ignition key to STOP and then to MAR again: if no failure is detected warning light will not
  come on.
• If the warning light stays
  on, repeat the procedure described previously leaving the key at STOP for over 30 seconds. Should the inconvenience persists, contact a Fiat Dealership.
• If the warning light stays
  on this means that the code has not been recognised. In this case, the key should be moved to the STOP position and then back to MAR; if the lock continues, possibly try again with the other key provided with the car. If it is still not possible to start the car, follow the instruction given in chapter “In an emergency” and then contact a Fiat Dealership.

The electronic components inside the key may be damaged if the key is submitted to sharp knocks.