GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Set Up a Theft Deterrent Module (TDM) Using Existing Keys

Important: Use this procedure only if replacing the theft deterrent module (TDM) using the existing vehicle keys.

Because of how vehicle key information and theft deterrent passwords are stored within the TDM, the Set Up a New Theft Deterrent Module procedure must be performed prior to the removal and replacement of the TDM if the vehicle keys are being reused. Performing the setup procedure first allows the scan tool to extract the key information and passwords from the old TDM prior to its removal. Failure to perform this step will result in the failure to learn the existing vehicle keys and new vehicle keys will be required when replacing the TDM.

Do not use the scan tool for any other programming operations while performing this procedure. Doing so will erase the stored data retrieved from the original TDM and cause the set-up to fail.

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle in the pass-thru arrangement.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. Ensure that all power consuming devices are turned OFF on the vehicle.
  4. With a scan tool, select Request Info. under Service Programming System and follow the scan tool on-screen instructions.
  5. On the Techline Terminal, select Service Programming System and follow the Techline Terminal on-screen instructions, using the Legacy Pass-Thru method. Ensure the correct programming selection is chosen based on component being replaced or programmed. For this procedure, go to the V.T.D. Vehicle Theft Deterrent Learn menu and choose the Prepare Module For TDM Setup Procedure selection.
  6. At this point the scan tool must remain connected for the duration of the 10-minute relearn procedure.
  7. Important: 

       • The scan tool will initially display 12 Minutes. The first 2 minutes allow the scan tool to initialize the appropriate control module. The remaining 10 minutes is the relearn timer.
       • On some vehicles the security indicator may be illuminated for the duration of the 10-minute relearn procedure.

  8. Observe the scan tool, after approximately 10 minutes the scan tool will display "Programming Successful, Turn OFF Ignition".
  9. With a scan tool, select TDM in the Vehicle Control Systems Module Replacement/Setup data list.
  10. Select Step 1.
  11. Select Use Existing Keys.
  12. Follow the scan tool on-screen instructions. The scan tool will then display Replace Module Per Service Manual. At this time, replace the TDM.
  13. After the new TDM has been installed, using the scan tool, select Step 2 and follow the on-screen instructions.

Programming Immobilizer System Components

After the TDM has been set up using the above procedure, the ECM and TDM must learn the new fuel continue password. To learn the new password, perform the Immobilizer System Component Programming procedure.

Set Up a Theft Deterrent Module (TDM) Using New Keys

Important: Use this procedure only if replacing the TDM using new vehicle keys.

The TDM must be replaced prior to beginning this procedure.

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle.
  2. With a new, unlearned vehicle key, turn ON the ignition.
  3. Turn the ignition OFF. Within 10 seconds, turn ON the ignition using a second new unlearned key.
  4. With a scan tool, select TDM in the Vehicle Control Systems Module Replacement/Setup data list.
  5. Select Step 1.
  6. Select Use New Keys.
  7. Follow the scan tool on-screen instructions.

Programming Immobilizer System Components

After the TDM has been set up using the above procedure, the ECM and TDM must learn the new fuel continue password. To learn the new password, perform the Immobilizer System Component Programming procedure.