GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

When a key is inserted in the ignition, contacts that are located in the steering column (ignition) lock cylinder contact a resistor pellet located in the ignition key. The theft deterrent module measures the resistance of the key pellet. The module compares this value to a value stored in memory. The theft deterrent module then performs one of the following functions:

    • If the values match, the theft deterrent module performs the following system enable functions:
      • The module provides a ground for the theft deterrent relay at terminal A4 (CKT 625, YEL/BLK). The ground enables the starter to operate.
      • The module sends a proper pulse width modulated (PWM) signal to the PCM. The signal travels via CKT 229 (DK BLU), terminal A3. When the PCM receives this input, the PCM enables the fuel delivery system.
    • If the values do not match, the theft deterrent module performs the following system disable functions for approximately 3 minutes:
      • No ground is provided to the theft deterrent relay. The starter is disabled.
      • No command is given to the PCM in order to enable the fuel delivery system.

If you turn the ignition switch to the RUN position anytime during the system disable interval, the theft deterrent module disregards the key pellet value until the 3 minute system disable interval is complete. This action occurs even if you use the correct key pellet value.

After approximately 3 minutes, the theft deterrent module performs the following actions:

    • The module measures the key pellet resistance.
    • The module compares the key pellet resistance to a value stored in memory.

If the values match, the theft deterrent module performs the system enable function. If the values do not match, the module performs the system disable functions again.

If the theft deterrent module is unable to measure the key pellet resistance due to a damaged or a missing pellet, the module does not perform the system enable or system disable functions. No 3 minute interval is performed. A measurable key with the correct resistance value can be used in order to start the vehicle.

Security Indicator Operation

When you turn the ignition switch to the RUN position, the SECURITY indicator illuminates for approximately 5 seconds. The indicator notifies the driver that the system operates correctly.

The theft deterrent system indicator operates in the following 4 modes:

    • The indicator illuminates when you turn the ignition switch to RUN (5 second bulb check). This condition shows that the indicator and the system operate correctly.
    • The indicator illuminates after the engine starts. This condition indicates that one of the following conditions has occurred:
       - The theft deterrent module is not properly programmed. You may use more than one key code value in order to start the vehicle. The improperly programmed module condition usually occurs on a vehicle where the module has been recently replaced.
       - The theft deterrent module detected a malfunction in the PASS-Key® II system while the engine was running. Verify that the following conditions are met. For further diagnosis, refer to Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) System Check .
   • The theft deterrent module connections are secure.
   • You are using a good ignition key.
    • The indicator illuminates, but the engine does not start. The theft deterrent module has detected an incorrect key pellet resistance key code value. The system disable functions activate. Perform the following steps:
        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 interrogator in order to measure each key pellet for the vehicle. All key codes should match.
        3. Wait for approximately 3 minutes 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 Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) System Check .
    • The indicator flashes and the engine does not start. The theft deterrent module has detected an open or short in the ignition key resistor input circuit. During this mode of operation, the theft deterrent module does not start the system disable timer. Refer to Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) System Check .