Expert: INSTALLSUPPORT - 10/8/2008

Question
I have a 1999 Cavalier. I was told that it needed a new ignition lock cylinder by a mechanic. It will crank but it is getting stuck in the auxiliary mode (i guess is what you would call it)...Anyways i was told by Auto Zone that the Anti theft would have to be reprogrammed and a mechanic told me that it could be done without going to the dealer but he was not sure how to do it..I was just wondering if this was true because that would definitely save me some money...Thank you for your time!

Answer
Ok, bad news I am afraid.
This vehicle has a the PASSLOCK I key
based engine disabling system.

A bypass is required to circumvent.
It has now locked down the fuel injector
rail, and you will need to tow it in to GM for
evaluation, and resetting.

Or,

You can get the PLJX bypass kit to get around
this issue.

This Passlock Bypass Module is designed to momentarilly
allow the engine to remote start by sending a proper
coded pulse to open the fuel rail passlock injector
cut off circuit.

The output from an alarm/remote starter
would then shut down the pulse, once it has detected
the engine has engaged, and preserve the integrity
of the passlock system.

That is it's designed purpose.

However, in your case, this input wire on the PLJX module,
instead of going to a momentary ground pulse from
an alarm/remote starter,
would go to a constant chassis ground, through
the bypass module, grounding out the PASSLOCK.
The PASSLOCK would then always be bypassed as long
as that wire is chassis grounded.

I can not speak about a damaged passlock system,
like if a thief has destroyed it, because I do not
get into this part of GM'S security application.
But as a happy coincidence to installing
after market remote starters, this does work on bypassing
passlock in most all GM vehicles we've run into,
including your year GM vehicle as well.

Also, this is a self learning, resistor sensing
and adjusting module. Once the VATS wires have been tapped,
you would press the program button to learn,
and it does. The car should then allow start
with any hardware store key.

It will on yours as well.

The trick here is to get the engine to start
long enough to program the module.
Try key in, turn forward to just before cranking.
Then leave that way for 10-11 minutes to see if
the PASSLOCK will re program. If it does, great,
but if not, then it's is on to the repair shop for
switch replacement. I know it's a vicious circle,
but that's what needs to happen before it'll start up.

Good luck and regards,

Robert Martin-ALARMTEK/CEO
Master Technician
Mobile Security Electronics
www.PASSLOCK1.com