The ignition key contains a transponder that transmits a signal to the theft deterrent module when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The theft deterrent module compares the signal from the key and determines if an authorized key is being used. During this period, the engine control module (ECM) turns on the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) by grounding the control circuit. The MIL control circuit is monitored by the theft deterrent module. When the theft deterrent module senses the voltage change from the ECM grounding the MIL control circuit, the theft deterrent module switches the signal on the VSS/theft deterrent signal circuit from the speed signal to send the frequency code to the ECM. The theft deterrent module sends the frequency code to the ECM on the same circuit used to transmit vehicle speed information to the ECM. The ECM compares the frequency code with the learned frequency code. If the frequency code sent by the theft deterrent module matches the frequency code programmed in the ECM, the ECM allows the engine to start. If the codes do not match, the ECM disables the injectors to prevent the engine from starting.

Engine cranking

The ECM will not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).

The engine will not start or may start and stall.

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

2. The wrong ignition key, the use of a key without a transponder, or an incorrectly programmed theft deterrent module will cause this DTC to set. Any of these faults will set a DTC in the theft deterrent module. The Diagnostic System Check for the theft deterrent system will direct you to the appropriate service information for any of these concerns.