GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operation Canada Only

Your vehicle has a passive theft-deterrent system.

The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition.

The system is automatically disarmed when the key is turned to ON/RUN.

You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system.

The security light will come on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system.

The key uses a transponder that matches an immobilizer control unit in your vehicle. Only the correct key will start the vehicle. If the key is ever damaged, you may not be able to start your vehicle.

When trying to start the vehicle, if the engine does not start and the security light comes on, there may be a problem with your theft-deterrent system. Turn the ignition off and try again.

If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers . If the engine still does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer/retailer who can service the theft-deterrent system and have a new key made.

It is possible for the theft-deterrent system decoder to learn the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. The following procedure is for programming additional keys only.

Canadian Owners:  If you lose or damage your keys, only a dealer/retailer can service the theft-deterrent system to have new keys made. To program additional keys you will require two current driver's keys.

To program a new key do the following:

  1. Verify that the new key has PK3+ stamped on it.
  2. Insert the current driver's key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start see your dealer/retailer for service.
  3. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/OFF, and remove the key.
  4. Insert the second current driver's key in the ignition and start the engine within ten seconds of removing the previous key. If the engine will not start see your dealer/retailer for service.
  5. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/OFF, and remove the key. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to ON within ten seconds of removing the previous key.
  6. The security light will turn off once the key has been programmed.

  7. Repeat the Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys are to be programmed.

If the security light comes on and stays on while driving, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn it off. The theft-deterrent system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer/retailer. Your vehicle is not protected by the theft-deterrent system at this time.

In an emergency, contact Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program .

Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.