GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key® III (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III is a passive theft deterrent system.

The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition.

You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system.

The security light will come on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system.

When the PASS-Key® III system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle's starter and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will stop being delivered to the engine. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high number of electrical key codes.

If the engine does not start and the security message comes on, there may be a problem with your theft-deterrent system. Turn the ignition off and try again.

If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. If the engine still does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key® III to have a new key made.

It is possible for the PASS-Key® III decoder to learn the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. This procedure is for learning additional keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost or do not operate, you must see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III to have keys made and programmed to the system.

See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III to get a new key blank that is cut exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.

To program the new key:

  1. Verify the new key has PK3 stamped on it.
  2. Insert the original, already programmed key into the ignition lock cylinder and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer/retailer for service.
  3. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/OFF and remove the key.
  4. For vehicles first sold in Canada, repeat step 2 with a different, already programmed, key before proceeding to step 4.

  5. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to ON/RUN within 10 seconds of removing the previous key.
  6. The security message will turn off once the key has been programmed. It may not be apparent that the security message went on due to how quickly the key is programmed.

  7. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to be programmed.

If you are ever driving and the security message comes on and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your PASS-Key® III system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer/retailer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key® III system at this time.

If you lose or damage a PASS-Key® III key, see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III to have a new key made.

Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.