security

[Christopherrr]

VATS has been bothering me for the last couple of months. When I turn the key, the security lights comes on and she doesn't start, I have to do the whole 3 minute cycle thing...I eventually learned that holding the key in as I turned solved the problem, at least 9 out of 10 turns. But now the security light comes on while I'm driving...freaked me out at first...but it comes on and turns off within a minute or so.

Any ideas? Hate to be stranded one day cuz VATS decides to be cranky.

I betting I have to replace the key ignition module...matter of fact, would bypassing the VATS using a resistor solve the problem?

[TraceZ]

Doing the resistor bypass will solve the problem, but will also make your car easier to steal.

I'd recommend replacing the ignition cylinder and keeping the system intact on a street driven car. Replacing it is not that hard. It requires a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor. Both tools are cheap at any auto parts store.

[Joe 1320]

Doing the resistor bypass will solve the problem, but will also make your car easier to steal.

I'd recommend replacing the ignition cylinder and keeping the system intact on a street driven car. Replacing it is not that hard. It requires a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor. Both tools are cheap at any auto parts store.

I second that.

[Christopherrr]

Doing the resistor bypass will solve the problem, but will also make your car easier to steel.

I'd recommend replacing the ignition cylinder and keeping the system intact on a street driven car. Replacing it is not that hard. It requires a steering wheel puller and a lock plate compressor. Both tools are cheap at any auto parts store.

Yeah...I thought about the whole idea of someone easily stealing her. How much are the cylinders? Tight on money...but I guess dishing out a few more dollars for a cylinder instead of doing a bypass would benefit me more in the long run.

Looks like Steve had the same problem...
VATS!!!

what to do...what to do.

Might just run the simple fix for now...where's that write-up on the bypass, anyone?

[Jeff_in_Atl]

Mine did it last week. I couldn't get it to start for nothing. So I sprayed some Auto Zone carb cleaner in the lock. I figured I didn't have anything to loose. It has worked perfect since then.

[LS1 TA]

Keep the VATS dude, save me my car in san diego a few years back. I had to replace the colum, but better than replacing a camaro.

[Z Ya Later]

Yeah...I thought about the whole idea of someone easily stealing her. How much are the cylinders? Tight on money...but I guess dishing out a few more dollars for a cylinder instead of doing a bypass would benefit me more in the long run.

Looks like Steve had the same problem...
VATS!!!

what to do...what to do.

Might just run the simple fix for now...where's that write-up on the bypass, anyone?

Yup, that was me. Probably will be again when it gets wet here again. A new ignition cylinder wouldn't be a bad idea and it isn't that bad of an install (as I learned after helping Craig with his steering column). Definitely get it fixed, as it is freaking annoying!!!! I just might do the same thing in the next couple months before I have to deal with it again.

[Converted]

I'm new but recently had this problem as well.. I tired adn tried for about 10min. I'm suprised I didn't kill the battery or blow something up with how many times I tried to turn over in such a short time.

I finally gave up walked away and got my G/F's keys put hers in and it turned over without a problem....after that I used my key and had zero issues.

My chip is pretty worn and hers well isn't so much... thats the only conclusion I could come up with...

As for the cost of a new cylinder I was going to say they are cheap but then I realized our keys are about 150 each.... I'd call GM and ask, but you might be able to get an aftermarket one from autozone.

[raroZ28]

depends on where you live and hang out. I woudn't hesitate to remove it in my area.

[Disifer]

Bypassing will only work if the ignition cylinder's the problem. If you're sure it's the cylinder wires etc. then by all means go ahead. I had a double-whammy this past winter when my cylinder then VATS unit went out within 1 month of each other. If it's the VATS box get another one or figure a way out to get rid of the system.

[Christopherrr]

well, I figured I'll do the bypass for the moment until I have the time and resources to replace the cylinder.

I found this on shoebox's site...looks straight forward. I hate wires...

Since I don't have a device to measure the resistance level, I'm gonna call a dealer and get the right level...unless there's an easier way, if so let me know.

[Jeff_in_Atl]

Another option is to have the VATS taken out of the software. I know it can be done on the 94-95 OBD1. I don't know about the OBD2s.

[LS1 TA]

well, I figured I'll do the bypass for the moment until I have the time and resources to replace the cylinder.

I found this on shoebox's site...looks straight forward. I hate wires...

Since I don't have a device to measure the resistance level, I'm gonna call a dealer and get the right level...unless there's an easier way, if so let me know.

I hope you live in an honest city because with that out all you need is a hammer and a screw driver to take the car. I had to start my car with a screw driver for a few weeks while my colum was on order after someone tried to steal mine.

[Christopherrr]

I hope you live in an honest city because with that out all you need is a hammer and a screw driver to take the car. I had to start my car with a screw driver for a few weeks while my colum was on order after someone tried to steal mine.

I live in an area where I can leave my windows and tops off...

I'm pretty sure I'll be fine...don't often find myself in rough or questionable areas. I much rather be sure I can get out of any rough areas instead of being stranded in em cuz my VATS is being all pissy.

I figure if they really want my car, they'll get it with or without VATS.

[LS1 TA]

I live in an area where I can leave my windows and tops off...

I'm pretty sure I'll be fine...don't often find myself in rough or questionable areas. I much rather be sure I can get out of any rough areas instead of being stranded in em cuz my VATS is being all pissy.

I figure if they really want my car, they'll get it with or without VATS.

Good deal man, places like that are awsome, thats why I moved back to a small down as apposed to San Diego. I just didn't want you or anyone else to have to go through the same BS as me because of scum. Starting your car with a screw driver is pretty embarrasing, especially taking a girl or something out.