ignition key

The dealership is the only place that can do keys. Here are diagrams below to show you how the change the ignition tumbler out.

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers

i have a 1998 chevy lumina and i can't get the car to turn over but i have lights and so i know its not the battery and put new starter the security light blinks when key is on and will not go off keeps blinking is it the chip on my key or what

Your car has a passlock problem. Passlock is a factory security system, and the security light is the indicator of a problem.
Try this to get the car started--turn the key on but do not try to start the engine. After about 10 minutes the security light will stop blinking -- this indicates that the passlock system is on by-pass. turn the key off for 6 seconds. Then try to start the engine. It should start.
The passlock problem is most likely a bad resistor in the ignition switch but you should take the car to the dealer so they can test the passlock system..

i tries that but the security light would not stop blinking i left it on for almost an hour

  If you cannot bypass the passlock then there is a malfunction in the system. This usually requires a trip to the dealer or a mechanic that has a tech 2 scan tool (or equivalent).. Try changing the battery in your key, but that is a shot in the dark.  Keep me posted....

Unable to turn the ignition either way and the position of the broken piece is not line up with the lock position.

Remove the steering wheel, removed up to the SIR coil after that under this there is a slotted disc with a spring locking bolt, I believe it is the steering lock mechanism, my question is how to remove this locking plate assembly? I am attempting to remove the sylinder and replace it with a new one.

Any suggestion will be great.

Tian.

The shaft lock is spring loaded, I can usually press down hard enough with my hand to access the retaining ring, Then use flat bladed screwdriver or something to work the retaining ring up out of the groove and off the end of the shaft. Because the retaining ring is split, you can work one side at at time. If you can't push shaft lock down far enough, they make a tool for that.

Thanks for the diagram, it seems my configuration is slightly different, on the diagram number 4 is a wave washer and number 6 is a retaining ring and mine is the other way around, the retaining ring is on number 4 and the wave washer is on number 6 and the "shaft lock" is solid it doesn't move, perhaps I ought to use a small puller?

I don't know, guess I'd have to look at it, the diagram is what my database showed? I'll look again.

sometimes my car doesnt turn on or try to start nothing lights up when i turn the key is the chip bad in the key or some kind of sensor

Have you tried spare key (if available) ? If starts with spare key, destroy key that does not work and have another made. If does not start with spare key, replace ignition switch.



Thanks for using 2CarPros.com!

i bought the car at a used car lot and it only had one key do you know where to get another one and what they cost

Does your key have a black thick end on it? If so, you will have to go to local locksmith or local Chevrolet dealer to have the key cut and programmed, becuase it has a chip inside if it has black end. If it does not have chip then a locksmith can cut the key. A regular key usually costs around $5. A programmed key is much higher, usually around $150.

thanks and it has the black end

No problem. You can also read our CAR REPAIR TROUBLESHOOTING page about this issue. You can find the link below..

https://www.2carpros.com/first_things/car_will_not_crank.htm

Perform all of those tests before purchasing anything. This will help save money by eliminating potential culprits so you don't end up buying parts that are not needing to be replaced.


Thanks for using 2CarPros.com!

i get all the whistle and bell and motor turns and i got spark, i got ground to all the relays and fuses but no positive curent i replace fuel pump filter and relay to fuel pump but it just wont fire . i have no positive with the key on.

i would check the fuel pressure. it sounds like you have a failed fuel pump.

Roy

Hey roy thanks i did replace it and check the regulator but i have no positive current running to activate anything such as fuse or relays just ground .

you mean the gray wire at the fuel pump?? if it does not have power, and it should for only 2 seconds with key on, check the fuse for the load side of the relay.

Roy

i mean i have no power to any of the fuses or relay like no positive current. i have tested ever fuse relay but no positive current with the ignition key in on position.

I lost the ignition key to my 1999 Chevy Lumina. It is a chipped key. This is a used car. The dealer made a key from the vin number which engages the switch but will not turn in the ignition. I have a key made from my original. This key doesn't have a chip in it. Also, this key will not go all the way into the ignition. Why won't the non-chipped key go all the way into the ignition? Is it because it doesn't have the contact "bump" from the chip to allow it to go all the way into the keyhole?

He has apparently made the wrong key for the vehicle.

check the fusible links at the starter motor.

Roy

The following explains how it works and the answer is yes, the key lacks something.

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

Vehicles are equipped with Personal Automotive Security System (PASS-Key(R) II). This security system is designed to prevent vehicle theft by disabling fuel system and starter unless an ignition key with a specific electrical resistance is used in the ignition key lock cylinder. PASS-Key(R) II system operates using sensing contacts, which are located in the ignition key lock cylinder. These contact a resistor pellet located in the ignition key. When lock is rotated, battery voltage is applied through appropriate fuse and resistor pellet to Theft Deterrent Module (TDM). Pellet resistance is then compared with programmed value in the theft deterrent module. If correct code is received, module enables theft deterrent relay, enabling starter circuit. Module also sends a password to PCM to enable fuel relay.

System components include ignition key, ignition key lock cylinder, theft deterrent module, theft deterrent relay and Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

The PASS-Key(R) II system can also be by-passed as a special equipment option on some vehicles.

RPO Code - Description
9C3 - Police
9C6 - Taxi

On these vehicles, a jumper wire is connected across key detection circuit. Anti-theft module remains unprogrammed. These vehicles are not equipped with security indicator light.


RPO CodeDescription
9C3Police
9C6Taxi

© 2008 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.


REPLACING IGNITION KEY
Verifying Correct Key Code

Lost or broken keys must be replaced with a key that has proper resistance value. To determine resistance value or code, insert ignition key into PASS-Key(R) II (VATS) Interrogator (J 35628-A) and read key code. Use key blank matching this key code and cut it to match original key.

NOTE:
Do not disconnect Yellow 2-pin SIR connector when determining key
code.

Determining BCM Programmed Key Code

To determine unknown BCM key code, use PASS-Key(R) II (VATS) Interrogator (J 35628-A) and following procedure.

1. Connect Interrogator (J 35628-A) to dash connector at base of steering column. DO NOT connect to steering column wiring.

2. Turn on Interrogator (J 35628-A) and move key code switch to "1" and attempt to start engine. If engine starts, key code is "1". If engine does not start, turn ignition off and press 4-minute timer on Interrogator (J 35628-A).

3. When timer light goes out, move key code switch to next number and attempt to start engine. If engine does not start, continue trying different key codes until proper key code is found. See PASS-Key(R) II KEY RESISTANCE table.


© 2008 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.

The previous answer is important information but I believe in this case that the locksmith didn't even use the right key blank to make the new key so there is no way to know if the resistance value is correct.

Electrical problem
1996 Chevy Lumina 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I replace the whole steering culumn and the key that came with it wont start the motor. Do i have to replace the computer also?

Does key have the resistor chip? If yes then the key does not match PCM for start. You can measure key resistance the find the two orange wires cut and install resistor.

The key will turn forward to "ON" position (for radio and lights to work), however, it stops and won't turn further in order to start the engine. (It turns back fine also). I'm assuming I need to change the ignition switch. If so, how do I do that on my own? If it's something else, what do I need to do?
Thanks!

Have you taken off the plastic to check and make sure everything is working correctly. There is an ignition switch actuator and when they crack or brake the key will not turn far enough to start the car. Here is a pic of the actuator.

A "piece with teeth" resembling part of your picture below came out of the steering column on the rod attached to the starter switch. i bought a new starter switch, but now can't figure out how the rod goes back in the new starter switch. where it would make sense for the rod to go (in the slider on the side) isn't where it came out of the old starter switch (on the bottom). i have scoured the internet looking for removal/installation instructions for this starter switch and came up with nothing. now it sounds like i may need to remove and replace the switch actuator as well. i'm stuck, so any help would be much appreciated. thanks!

Ok here is a pic of the column. Now let me know what help are you needing. What is it that you need for instructions from me? I will do all I can just let me know where it is that you are stuck.

My 95 Lumina Sedan 3.1 L seems to run fine for 3 yrs siince i got it - well maintained before me as well. 2 weeks ago would not start but all else OK. Eventually found it was VATS key resistor sensor in ignition key cylllinder. I did standard key bypass cutting the 2 wires from it at base of steering column & soldering in a resistor of same value as key's. Works excellently. AAll else I did was disconnect battery terminals to clean them & unplug-plug oil pressure sensor harness as it was near srarter, and many fuses & relays one at a time - all while engine was off. Once car started again initial lights in dash work correctly. Then, when engine running (drive it or not) for 7-9 sec or so, Service Engine Light comes on every time. Never at immediate start - just waiting to that delay time of 7-9 sec. My ALDL or OBD1 or OBD1/2 combo connector under dash has only pins A=Gnd & M below it connected to the harness in a pig tail - black & dark or faded yellow or tan, a one colored wire. How do I test why light on? What is sequence of car computer test to get to that moment in its cycle. I tried shorting A=Gnd to M & no codes. Usual A-B short not work because no B pin. Light is on only since i did something on this repair. Same probelm before this was temp light moving up faster than it used to for last 6 months - changed radiator fluid-flushed & will do thermostat. But lSES light never came on for that or anything before, ever. HOW DO I TEST PINS A and M ONLY!!!
No pins 5.6 etc. My free mechanic friend tested with his GM testor twice and said he could do A G E F B --- and he got no codes out (maybe wrong pins)and tried to turn off light by pulling out EGM fuse and pumping pedals then replacing - light stays out intitally but 7-9 sec in engine running - comes on ech time. I have looked on line no help -and haynes Manual says some 1995 Lumina's do not have pin B and need a scan tool but all those i see require other pins besides GND and M. WHAT DID I DO TO TURN ON THIS LIGHT & HOW DO I TEST MY SYSTEM WITH PINS A & M ONLY. I have searched internetm dealership, auto part stores - to no success.

Hi
your car has no B. It is a pre OBDII system. You must have a GM Tech 1 scanner to get or to remove codes.
So it is dealer or maybe ebay to see if one is for sale.

I already knew this - why pay you money for something I already knew. I was looking for an understanding of the pins.

I also found on my own the problem with a disconnected wire.

I am very NOT satisfied with this non technical answer - i could have called a local mechanic and gotten the same answer for free.

I would like my money refunded please.

Lou Gross

ll you asked was where is trem B and how do I turn light off. Which I did. If you foind a loose wire what wire ??? You never said anythink about the wires out of connector and you did this in three hours. Well you have one big advantage you have the car I do I rely on you to give accurate information , Reread your post and see if it is remotly clear.

Tnx for your reply - nice of you to stay in contact - for the connector - I am wanting to know what the wires M and A=gnd do to test it - and i have looked for scan units on line - the haynes manual says to use a scan unit if there is no B wire. So what you are saying is that the only way to check this is at the dealer's with an oscilloscope or special teser that can test just the M=serial output (per the haynes manual) and there is no such device nor information that meachnics outside the dealer have to explain what the scan testers do with their pins.

OK - not what i wanted to hear - but if that is the open door - ok - My local chevy dealer service agent head gave my tel nr to the mechanic who can help me after hrs the service guy thinks - less cost to me and it can help the mechanic as well.

------------------------

Thanks for mentioning the wire. When my car stopped starting a few of use noticed this blue colored small wire in the front loom near the starter and the oil pressure-level sensor. Wires from the same loom bundle go to the solenoid start, +12 on the starter, and this oil sensor. And then this little blue wire that was found not long enough to reach anything except maybe the aoil sensor - but there are no more pins in the sensor itself nor in this connector to it that are available - the unit has 3 pins and the wire plug to it has three wires and pins.

But what i noticed today is that my Service Engine Soon light comes on (for the first time in 3 yrs of having the car) only since this non starting thing happened last week. That is, it shows after i got the car starting again with the resistor in the key sensor circuit because the key sensor is worn out, typially with these chevys.

And from a stopped car, starting it, all is normal and the car drives well, but after 10-12 sec of running, the SES light comes on and simultaneously the engine idle drops to 800 or less - from 900 where it was from start for the first 10-12 sec. The blue wire, when connected to gnd thru my analog multimeter on a 50 v scale shows 6 v when car is running, even when car was not running but the key was turned to start.

Now, when i switch the multimeter to the 10 v scale, the SES light does NOT come on. Same with 2.5 v scale. And on 10 v scale the voltage is more like 4.5-5 v. On 50 v and higher, like 250 v scale, the symptom of SES light and idle drop occurs and on 10 V and lower like 2.5 v it is not on.

In fact, if I start the car in the 50 v and then switch the meter to 10 v as it is running, the light goes out, and if I switch it back to the 50 v the SES light comes back on again.

Further, the 6 v (or 4.5-5 v) on the blue wire remains after I shut off the engine, whether the key is in ON or off or is removed from the cyllinder on the steering column - it stays on for 6-10 sec. And if i reinsert the key and start the car within the time the blue wire voltage is still on, the SES light will appear immediately on starting and stay on -- no 10-12 sec delay until it goes on. And if i restart the car immediately after - or later after the blue wire voltage drops to zero after its delay, then the car starts normally with the SES coming on after 10-12 sec. So there is some kind of delay built in.

The issue seems to be the resistance to ground for the blue wire - too much resistance and the idle speed is not up enough and the SES light comes on. Less resistance and it seems OK. At least that is the evidence I have so far.

And as I say, I don't know where to hook up the blue wire and the wiring diagram in the Haynes book does not show it, nor does the dealer parts guy have wiring diagrams at all on his computer.

And i have yet to find anyone who has the knowledge to analyze the pin M to GND in a special tester - probably an oscilloscope of some sort.

The usual way to find the codes for DIY on OBD-1 ALDL is to short pins A=GND and B=codes witha paper clip and read the flashes on the SES light - even the Haynes manual tells you how and gives the coe numbers and what they mean. But the manual also says not all the 1995 GM cars had pin B by manufacturer design, and for that it needs a scan tool or a dealer setup.

So this is the whole story.

The reason I am tyring to save money is that for some years i have been ill and I am on disabiltiy and my income is low so I am trying to DIY as much as i can. On that resistor substitute for the key I saved $175 over what a seeming nice mechanic wanted to charge me for disconnecting the anti theft module - now the module and all the circuitry is there and i can make an extension pair of wires up to the dashboard and put a connector on it, and then carry the resistor pack - a few of them - have them in my vehicle - and have both lower cost keys without the resistors and also have the security system, too.

Sorry - I forgot to mention - my own local low cost mechanic does have a GM tester and I watched him connect it up on two consecutive days and he says he could get no codes out of it - nor turn off the SES light.

Later i found this wire resistance to gnd relationship of why the SES light comes back on. Of course, a clearing the codes and turing off the light only brings the car back to the pre error detection state., then when the car is started again it runs thru its sequence or monitors things that happen in the car operation. And when my car starts warming up and the idle drops to about where it should be, then the SES light comes on indicating the error.

If his GM tester - that he said has tests for pins A B E F G (but not M as in my car) then it would not be actually testing my car's codes. And the other brands of testors for OBD 1 I saw on the internet also have a number of wires required - and my car only has one wire besides GND - M.

So there is something to do with the resistance to gnd of that wire. And I am starting to just pull it out of the loom and see where it goes to at the other end. I got part way and ran into a hard physical place to get in with a junction of many bundles so I have to wait for daylight and the engine to cool and take off the air intake hose and filter box to get my fingers in there and see.

Lou

When I bought this car I was told there was a fautly module relating to a chip in the ignition key. When I bought it the key would not work consistently. Sometimes it would start..sometimes not. The mechanic at the dealer where I purchased it ( he is no longer employed there) used one of the spares and somehow inserted it in the wiring under the dash to correct this. It has been fine for about a year but now I am having the problem again. He had used electrical tape to splice the key directly into the wiring. Is this something you are familiar with? I realize it was a "quick fix" but I cannot afford at present to have a dealer replace the key and or module. Is it possible to bypass this module so the car will start?

Hi louisryoshin
Thanks for reply and the info am going to dig into this and will call in some help to get you going. Could you give a phone number so I can call this works better in tough cases as this seems to be.
Hand in there I'll be in touch in an hour 11am EST where I am.
Is it 3.1L or 3.4L?

Hi Kindredspirit758,

Thank you for the donation.

The immobilizer is designed to be tamper proof therefore it is not possible to bypass it. If it is faulty, the key have to be replaced and reprogrammed by the dealer.