GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 297738  Size: SF

Pontiac

The instrument cluster contains the logic of the vehicle theft deterrent (VTD) system. The instrument cluster reads an R-Code from the Passlockā„¢ lock cylinder within a timed window. If the instrument cluster receives the correct R-Code within the timed window, the instrument cluster performs the following actions:

    • Enter Pass Theft mode
    • Transmit the coded password to the PCM

The following 2 actions may cause the instrument cluster to enter the theft mode:

    • A bad timing cycle
    • A bad R-Code

If the instrument cluster does not read the R-Code within the window, the VTD system will enter the Short Tamper Mode. During the Short Tamper Mode the VTD system will perform the following actions:

    • Not allow the vehicle to operate for 4 seconds
    • Flash the indicator

If the instrument cluster fails to read the R-Code 3 times consecutively, the VTD system will enter the Long Tamper Mode. During the Long Tamper Mode the following actions will occur:

    • The indicator will flash.
    • The fuel injectors will shut off for approximately 10 minutes.

The vehicle may start during one of the tamper modes, but the engine will quickly stall. If the instrument cluster receives the wrong code, the VTD will immediately go into the Long Tamper Mode. The VTD will lock out the fuel injection for 10 minutes.

The THEFT SYSTEM indicator will flash while the VTD is in Any Tamper Mode. The instrument cluster continually verifies the operation of the VTD during the operation of the vehicle. If the THEFT SYSTEM indicator illuminates continuously during vehicle operation, refer to Content Theft Deterrent (CTD) System Check .