GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

STARTING DISABLED DUE TO THEFT SYSTEM REMOVE IGNITION KEY

If the powertrain control module (PCM) does not receive the fuel enable message, the PCM sends a message to the instrument cluster (IPC) in order to display the STARTING DISABLED DUE TO THEFT SYSTEM REMOVE IGNITION KEY message on the driver information center, via the class 2 serial data line. This message informs the driver why the engine is not starting and starts a 3 minute interval, with messages, before attempting a vehicle restart.

WAIT 3 MINUTES, WAIT 2 MINUTES, WAIT 1 MINUTE, and START CAR

When the ignition switch is returned to the OFF position, the instrument cluster (IPC) starts a time. Also, the IPC displays the following messages at 1 minute intervals:

    • WAIT 3 MINUTES
    • WAIT 2 MINUTES
    • WAIT 1 MINUTE
    • START CAR

These messages inform the driver to wait for the PASS-Key® II system to reset, before attempting to restart the vehicle.

REMOVE KEY

The instrument cluster (IPC) displays the REMOVE KEY message after the following messages:

    • WAIT 3 MINUTES
    • WAIT 2 MINUTES
    • WAIT 1 MINUTE
    • START CAR

The REMOVE KEY message alternates every 3 seconds. The REMOVE KEY message informs the driver to remove the key before attempting to restart the vehicle.

THEFT SYSTEM PROBLEM CAR MAY NOT RESTART

The THEFT SYSTEM PROBLEM CAR MAY NOT RESTART message is displayed under the following conditions:

    • The engine is running.
    • The instrument cluster (IPC) detects a PASS-KEY® II system malfunction.

The vehicle continues to run, but if the error is present when the vehicle is turned off the vehicle may not restart.

SECURITY INDICATOR OPERATION

When the ignition switch is turned to the RUN position, the security indicator illuminates for approximately 5 seconds, indicating to the driver that the system is operating correctly.

The 3 bulb control modes for the PASS-Key® II system are listed below.

Bulb Stays Illuminated and Engine Starts

If the security indicator stays illuminated after the engine starts, this is an indication that one of the following conditions has occurred:

    • The instrument cluster (IPC) is not properly programmed. More than 1 key code value can be used in order to start the vehicle. The improperly programmed IPC condition usually occurs on a vehicle with a recently replaced IPC.
    • The IPC detected a malfunction in the PASS-Key® II system while the engine was last running. Verify that the IPC conditions are secure and that a good ignition key is being used. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster in Instrument Panel, Gauges and Console.

Bulb Stays Illuminated and Engine Does Not Start

If the security indicator stays illuminated while attempting to start the engine and the engine does not start, the instrument cluster (IPC) has detected an incorrect key pellet resistance (key code) value and activated the system disable functions. Take the following actions:

  1. Remove the key from the ignition.
  2. Verify that the correct key code (key pellet) is being used in order to start the vehicle. Use a J 35628-A in order to measure each key pellet for the vehicle. Ensure that all of the key codes match.
  3. Wait approximately 3 seconds for the system disable timer to expire. Use a known good key with the correct key code in order to attempt to restart the engine.
  4. If the engine still does not start, refer to Diagnostic System Check - Theft Deterrent .

Bulb Flashes and Engine Does Not Start

If the security indicator flashes and the engine does not start, the instrument cluster (IPC) has detected an open or short in the ignition key resistor input circuit. During this mode of operation, the IPC does not start the system disable timer.