GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

When the ignition is switched On, the antenna that is integrated in the Theft Deterrent Module (Immobilizer) is energized. During this period the Engine Control Module (ECM) sends a signal to terminal 2 of the Theft Deterrent Module requesting the frequency code (imo signal).

The transponder key contains a security code (transponder code) that transmits via the antenna to the Theft Deterrent Module. The Theft Deterrent Module compares the received code with the stored transponder code. If the transponder code is recognized, the Theft Deterrent Module blocks the speed signal input to the ECM allowing the transfer of the imo signal to terminal 79 of the ECM. The ECM compares the received imo signal with the programmed imo signal. If the signal is recognized and matches the programmed signal the engine is allowed to start.

Within 1.5 seconds during the transfer and the evaluation phase of the transponder code and the imo signal the engine can be started. However, if the imo signal does not match, the engine will stall immediately.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • No transponder signal (key transmitter signal) present, transponder key defective.
    • Key used is not a transponder key.
    • Transponder key not programmed in the Theft Deterrent Module.

The above conditions must be fulfilled for at least 0.51 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The engine starts then stalls.
    • The Theft Deterrent Module stores a DTC 14 in memory.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The conditions for the fault are no longer present.
    • A history DTC will clear after 20 consecutive ignition cycles if the condition for the fault is no longer present.
    • The use of a scan tool.

Diagnostic Aids

    • Using the DMM, check the ground circuit at terminal 4. Typical voltage drop readings are 100mV or less. When measuring the resistance it should measure at close to 0 (zero) ohms.
    • Use Terminal Repair Kit J  38125-A or J  35616-A to gauge all terminal contacts. Check for damaged connectors and poor wire to terminal connections.
    • If the DTC is an intermittent or history DTC, try performing the tests shown while "wiggling" wiring and connectors, this can often cause the malfunction to appear.

Test Description

The following numbers refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:

  1. This step checks which transponder key is being used.

  2. This step checks the programmed status of the key being used.

  3. The module may be at fault if no trouble is found in the power or ground circuits, or if no trouble is found with the connection at the Theft Deterrent Module.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Theft Deterrent System Check?

--

Step 2

Go to Theft Deterrent System Check

2

  1. Connect the scan tool to the Data Link Connector (DLC).
  2. Select IMMOBILIZER.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
  4. Select TRANSPONDER KEY.

Does the scan tool display a transponder key (TRANSP KEY 1-5)?

--

Step 4

Step 3

3

Does the scan tool display NOT PROGR KEY?

--

Step 5

Step 6

4

Select TRANSPONDER KEY STATUS.

Does the scan tool display KEYS PROGRAMMED?

--

Go to Theft Deterrent System Check

Step 7

5

  1. Check the key for a missing transponder. If the transponder is missing, repair as needed.
  2. If OK, the key is defective, replace as needed.

Is the repair or replacement complete?

--

Step 7

--

6

Does the scan tool display NO KEY PROGR? ( Key being used is not programmed in the Theft Deterrent Module.)

--

Step 7

--

7

Important: Once the keys have been erased and reprogrammed, cycle the ignition OFF and ignition ON again. The parameter value is only updated if communication is interrupted and then reestablished, otherwise the scan tool may indicate NO TRANSPONDER KEY, even though the transponder keys were programmed.

Reprogram the transponder key. Refer to Programming Transponder Key.

Was the programming successful?

--

Go to Theft Deterrent System Check

Step 8

8

  1. Check all the power circuits.
  2. Check all the ground circuits.
  3. Check for poor connections at the Theft Deterrent Module. Refer to Diagnostic Aids.
  4. Replace the module. Refer to Steering Wheel and Column On Vehicle Service.
  5. Reprogram the module. Refer to Programming Theft Deterrent Module.

Is the replacement and the reprogramming complete?

--

Go to Theft Deterrent System Check

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