To reset the anti-theft system on a Chrysler Town & Country, you’ll need to disconnect the vehicle’s battery for one minute. Then, reconnect it to complete the reset.

The Chrysler Town & Country minivan last rolled off production lines back in 2016, but it remains a popular family vehicle nonetheless. The fact that it has an anti-theft system should ease the anxiety of Town & Country owners, even if it's not one of the most stolen vehicles in the country.

That said, it might be a bit of a headache if you accidentally set off your minivan’s anti-theft system, interrupting your errands and preventing you from getting on with your day. That’s why

Jerry

, the vehicle expert and

car insurance

comparison tool, has put together this handy article on how to reset your Chrysler’s anti-theft (aka immobilizer) system.

And before we go, we’ll even give you some tips on how to save on

Chrysler Town & Country insurance costs

How to reset the Chrysler Town & Country immobilizer system

While the 2016 Town & Country owner’s manual does not specify how to reset the immobilizer, multiple owners confirm that disconnecting the Town & Country’s battery for one minute and then reconnecting it will reset the system.

If you need to reset your Chrysler’s immobilizer system, call your Chrysler dealership to confirm this.

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The best car anti-theft devices to keep your vehicle safe

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What does the immobilizer system on a Chrysler Town & Country do?

A Chrysler Town & Country’s Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unauthorized operation of the minivan by disabling the engine in case of unauthorized entry into the vehicle. It will also immobilize the engine if someone tries to start the engine with an unauthorized key fob.

The Town & Country’s immobilizer system also disables the interior door lock switches, the power sliding doors, and the power liftgate.

The Town & Country’s immobilizer system does not need to be armed—it is automatically activated and works whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked. The immobilizer system is paired with a key fob/remote keyless entry (RKE) and a wireless ignition node to prevent the vehicle from being stolen.

Only key fobs programmed to pair with a specific Town & Country can be used to start the ignition. If an invalid key fob is used to gain entry into a Town & Country, the engine will automatically shut down after two seconds.

The Chrysler Town & Country’s immobilizer system light will turn on for three seconds every time you turn the ignition on, then go out. If the bulb stays on after the initial three seconds, this indicates a problem with the Town & Country’s electronics. If the vehicle security light keeps flashing after the initial three seconds, this means an unauthorized key fob was used to attempt to start the engine.

In both of these circumstances, the immobilizer system will automatically shut the engine down.

How to program a new key fob

You’ll need to go to an authorized Chrysler dealership to program a new key fob for your Town & Country. A new, blank key fob is necessary; old or previously used key fobs programmed for different vehicles cannot be used.

Once a key is programmed to pair with a certain vehicle, it cannot be reprogrammed to another vehicle.

What can trigger the Chrysler immobilizer system?

Besides unauthorized entry and engine start attempts, there are numerous possible causes for your Town & Country’s immobilizer system going off. Here are some of the most common causes of false alarms.

Low battery: The Chrysler Town & Country’s immobilizer system can incorrectly activate upon turning the ignition. If this happens, your battery is likely running low.

Non-functional key fob: A key fob that’s not working properly can set off the Town & Country’s security system.

Poor hood-latch connection: If your hood's latch connection is faulty or broken, this can cause a false alarm.

Corroded or rusted battery terminals: If your minivan’s battery terminals are corroded, the battery won’t work correctly. This can potentially set the alarm off.

Wiring problems: If a Town & Country’s wiring is faulty or damaged, the alarm can be set off accidentally. Your headlights will likely flash and the horn will be blaring, too.

Faulty control module: A malfunctioning electronic control module can send mixed signals to the minivan’s various components, including setting the security system off.

Sitting on your key fob: Believe it or not, this can accidentally trigger the Town & Country’s security system.

Accidentally pressing the panic button: Beware of pressing the wrong button on your key fob.

MORE:

Cars most targeted by catalytic converter thieves

Can the Chrysler Town & Country immobilizer system lower your insurance rate?

Indeed—having an anti-theft system in your Town & Country can lower your car insurance premiums anywhere from 5% to 25%.

Regardless, the Chrysler Town & Country is rated as one of the safest, most reliable, and cheapest minivans to insure. This is no doubt helped by the fact that it has an immobilizer system. Even better, the system is automatic—you don’t have to remember to turn it on, as it's always on guard.

Another way to get further discounts on your Town & Country? Buy an upgraded aftermarket alarm system or a catalytic converter strap.

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