GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The Vehicle Theft Deterrent System (VTD) is incorporated within the body control module (BCM). If the BCM has been replaced, the password must be relearned. If the powertrain control module (PCM) is replaced, the replacement PCM should learn the password within a few seconds after the ignition is turned ON. This is an information code indicating that the PCM is ready to learn the VTD password.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The VTD system has allowed fuel delivery.
    • The PCM is in the theft deterrent password learn mode.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The PCM remains in theft deterrent password learn mode for more than 2 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The PCM will not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
    • The PCM will store conditions which were present when the DTC set as failure records data only. This information will not be stores as freeze frame data.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC/MIL

    • A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction.
    • The DTC can be cleared by using a scan tool.

Diagnostic Aids

A new replacement PCM will be in a functional state to learn the password from the BCM. If the BCM is replaced, the PCM must be placed in password learning mode to relearn a new password. Once learned, the password becomes permanent information that remains with the vehicle. The loss of PCM battery or ignition voltage will not affect the programmed password information.

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls?

Go to Programming Theft Deterrent System Components

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Theft Deterrent