GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

The theft deterrent system on this vehicle is comprised of one the following two separate systems:

    • The Personal Automotive Security System (PASS-Key® III)
    • The content theft deterrent (CTD) system

GM Engineers design the Personal Automotive Security System (PASS-Key® III) in order to prevent vehicle auto theft by disabling the engine. An exception is using a key with a specific electrical value in the ignition lock cylinder. The system includes the following components:

    • The black or gray ignition key
    • The steering column ignition lock cylinder
    • The Personal Automotive Security System (PASS-Key® III)
    • The powertrain control module (PCM)

GM Engineers design the content theft deterrent (CTD) system is designed in order to provide a warning in the event of a forced entry through the doors. When there is a forced entry, the alarm warning activates. The following functions occur for approximately 3 minutes:

    • The horn sounds intermittently
    • The lights flash in unison

The CTD system includes the following components:

    • The door jamb switches
    • The door lock cylinder switches
    • The door modules
    • The exterior lights
    • The horns
    • The Remote Function Actuator (RFA) module

The following systems control the yellow SECURITY indicator on the instrument cluster:

    • The PASS-Key® III system
    • The content theft deterrent (CTD) system

The following notes apply to the theft deterrent system:

    • In the PASS-Key® III system, the PASS-Key® III module commands the RFA module in order to control the indicator only with the ignition switch in the RUN position.
    • In the CTD system, the RFA module controls the indicator only with the ignition switch in the OFF position.
    • If the engine cranks but does not start, the PASS-Key® III system is not causing the condition.
    • The content theft deterrent system does not affect the starting of the engine.