Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 9/6/2007

Question
Hi, every once in awhile, when I go to start my car it does not start and the Theft System Light comes on.  The light then flashes for about 10 minutes and then it shuts off and I can start the car.  When I get the car started if the light stays on, I am fine and I can start the car whenever.  However every so often the light stays off and every second or third time I start the car it comes on and I have to wait 10 minutes to start it.  I have a car starter installed but I do not use it.  Would it make a difference if I took this out?  Could this be the problem?  I have read the manual that came with the car, however the car does not have the original radio/stereo in it so I can not enter a code or anything.  I bought this car used 5 years ago and it has been acting up for the last 3 years.  If the light stays on I am fine as I can start the car with no problem.  What can I do to fix this?  It is very frustrating.  Thanks

Answer
Ok, here's what's happening.

The 10 minute time frame is the indicator that points
to a passlock problem.  10 minutes is the magic number
that says the passlock has been put into long tamper mode,
the vehicle thinks someone is trying to start the car with
the incorrect key.

If there is no aftermarket remote start in the vehicle,
then I would suggest taking it to the dealership for repair.  
If there is an aftermarket remote start, then whatever method
that was used to bypass the passlock is malfunctioning.

Now don't confuse this. The reaction you are having IS
due to the GM PASSLOCK system being breached & activated
or, it is malfunctioning. In either case, this is
what (in this car) is troubling you. The trouble
though is that the local mechanic at
the gas station can't help here.

Sorry, but the passlock is GM's way
of getting you coming and going.

There is no outside method other then circumventing
it momentarilly to allow remote start, which won't
fix your troubles.

Nope, this is a GM issue and has to be corrected there,
or an outside shop will charge you bukoo bucks
to replace the whole VATS. (VERY PRICEY $$$$!)

Sorry wish I could be more help, but if it's
intermittent now, then it needs they're technician,
they're factory computer diagnostics to fix it.

There will be a fee involved to reset it, but much less
then replacing the entire VATS-Passlock system.

If you do find another fix, let us all know.
This is NOT uncommon. It is GM's way of keeping
it all inhouse, security wise.

Let us know what you find out.

ALARMTEK
www.PASSLOCK1.com