The vehicle theft deterrent (VTD) system is a function of the PASS-Key® III Theft Deterrent module. When an ignition key is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder, the PASS-Key® III module reads a transponder pellet located within the ignition key. The PASS-Key® III module then validates this value against a value stored in memory and performs one of the following functions:
| • | If the value does match the stored value, the PASS-Key® III module sends a fuel enable request signal to the PCM through CKT 229. The PCM then enables fuel delivery to the engine allowing the vehicle to start. |
| • | If the value does not match the stored value, the PASS-Key® III module does not send the fuel enable request signal to the PCM and the vehicle does not start. |
Ignition Key Transponder Pellets
The VTD module identifies three possible conditions for the ignition key transponder pellet:
| • | A VALID Key code is a code that the VTD module has learned and will allow the vehicle to start and run. |
| • | An INVALID Key has a valid transponder pellet code that has not been learned by the VTD module and will not allow the vehicle to start and run. |
| • | An ILLEGITIMATE Key has a zero code or a code that cannot be read by the VTD module. |
Learn More Keys Mode (Domestic)
The PASS-Key® III module can learn up to 10 valid key codes to operate the vehicle. To program more keys, use the following procedure. This procedure must begin with a valid key.
- Insert a valid key into the ignition and turn the ignition ON.
- Observe the PASS KEY telltale in the IP. After the 2 second bulb test, turn the ignition OFF and remove the valid key.
- Within 10 seconds insert the invalid key to be learned into the ignition, and turn the ignition ON. The PASS KEY telltale will be illuminated while the VTD module is learning the key.
- When the PASS KEY telltale turns OFF, more keys can be learned by repeating steps 2 and 3.
To exit the Learn More Keys Mode, turn the ignition OFF for more than 10 seconds.
SECURITY Indicator Operation
The VTD module controls the PASS KEY telltale light in the IP.
Bulb is ON steady for 2 seconds then goes OFF
This is normal operation when the VTD module detects a valid key code being used to start the vehicle.
Bulb Flashes ON and OFF once each second and Engine Does Not Start
The VTD module detects an INVALID Key value when the ignition key is turned to the ON position.
Bulb Flashes ON and OFF twice each second and Engine Does Not Start
If the indicator flashes at 2 cycles per second and the engine does not start, the VTD module has detected an ILLEGITIMATE Key or a problem with the PASS-Key® III system.
