Durango Won't Start, Immobilizer System Preventing Startup

Had the same problem on a 2019 Dodge Journey last month. The anti-theft system was acting up similarly, security light staying on and engine cutting out. The remote start would also fail intermittently. The root cause was incorrect key signal programming. The immobilizer was not properly recognizing the transponder chip in the key. This causes the security system to think someone is trying to start the car with an unauthorized key. Main steps taken to resolve: 1. Diagnostic scan confirmed the immobilizer module was functioning but had corrupted programming 2. Key transponder needed full reprogramming to sync with the security system 3. Anti-theft system required a complete reset and recalibration 4. New programming had to be loaded to the immobilizer control unit This is a serious electrical issue that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Regular mechanics often lack the proper tools to reprogram these car electronics systems. The problem will persist or return if not properly addressed by someone with experience in automotive security systems. Recommend taking it to a shop that specializes in car electronics and key programming rather than a general mechanic. They should be able to properly diagnose if your symptoms match this type of immobilizer fault.

Thanks for the detailed reply about the immobilizer fault on your Journey. My Durango has been sitting in the driveway for 2 weeks now because of this security light issue. Just wondering, do you remember roughly how much you paid for the key programming and system reset? Also, has the fix held up since then or have you noticed any other electrical gremlins popping up? My remote start is acting weird too now, so trying to figure out if its all connected to the same immobilizer problem.

After seeing a specialist who works with car electronics, the immobilizer issue on my Journey was completely resolved for just 45€. They identified incorrect key programming as the root cause and properly reset the security system. The fix has held up perfectly since then with no electrical problems whatsoever. My remote start is working normally again too, these features are definitely connected since they all rely on proper communication between the key transponder and the car immobilizer system. The shop explained that when the key programming gets corrupted, it affects all the security-related functions. Getting the transponder chip properly synced with the ignition control module solved both the startup and remote access issues at once. The security light hasnt come back on and the car starts reliably every time now. Based on my experience, once the key programming is done correctly by someone who knows car electronics, these immobilizer problems stay fixed.

Thanks for the advice. After two weeks of frustration, I finally got my Durango fixed properly. Found a specialist shop that actually knew how to handle immobilizer bypass and security system programming. The diagnostic showed my key signal was compromised, just like you mentioned. Total bill came to 350€, more than your repair but still way less than what the first mechanic charged for not fixing it. They reprogrammed both my keys and reset the whole security system. Car starts perfectly now, security light stays off like it should, and the remote start is working again too. Wish I had asked here first before wasting money at that general repair shop. Definitely learned my lesson about finding the right specialist for electronic security issues. Really appreciate the guidance, saved me from throwing more money at mechanics who dont have the right diagnostic tools for these immobilizer problems.