GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

EXPLANATION OF THEFT DETERRENT SECURITY SYSTEM

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1990 'F' CAR

This bulletin is being issued to inform dealers that the theft deterrent system information in the 1990 F-car Owners Manual does not apply. The following information applies to the 1990 F-car.

The car is equipped with the PASS KEY (R) Security System. With this system the engine starts only with the special ignition key that came with the car. The ignition key has a resistor pellet embedded in it.

A decoder mounted in the car recognizes the pellet and lets the car start.

As a bulb check, the security light will come on briefly when the car is started. The light should go off and stay off after the engine starts. If it doesn't come on or go off as it should, the owner should take the car to the dealer soon.

If the engine won't start and the security light stays on, the owner should wait 5 minutes and then try again. If the car still won't start, the owner should try wiping off the key or use another ignition key (three were provided). If another key works, there may be something wrong with the first one. The owner should see the dealer.

If this light comes on while driving the car, the car should be serviced as soon as possible. When the "SECURITY" light is on, the engine may not restart.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.