GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The theft deterrent system on this vehicle is comprised of 2 separate systems, the Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) System and the Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) System. The VTD prevents drive away theft by preventing the vehicle from starting. The CTD is the vehicle alarm system which discourages unauthorized entry into the vehicle. These systems are described and diagnosed separately within this section.

SECURITY Indicator

The SECURITY indicator on the instrument panel cluster (IPC) is controlled by the body control module (BCM) through the security indicator control circuit.

    • The Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) System contained in the BCM commands the instrument cluster to control the SECURITY indicator only when the ignition switch is ON. The VTD System uses the telltale as a malfunction indicator.
    • The Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) System also contained in the BCM commands the instrument cluster to control the indicator only when the ignition switch is OFF. The CTD System uses the SECURITY indicator to identify system status.

Theft Lock Radio (if applicable)

Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Entertainment in Entertainment.

CTD/VTD Description and Operation

Refer to the following for the appropriate description and operation:

    •  Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) Description and Operation
    •  Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) Description and Operation