How to Disable a GM PassLock System
by James MelzerUpdated June 22, 2023
The first GM PassLock antitheft system was introduced in the mid-1990s. It prevents the car from starting with the wrong ignition key. Problems do occur with the PassLock system when your vehicle stalls and the theft system light illuminates on the dashboard. The vehicle will not start and the PassLock system will need to be disabled and reset before you can start the vehicle again. Thankfully this is an easy fix.
1. Leave the ignition key turned to the "On" position
Leave the ignition key turned to the "On" position after the vehicle has stalled and will not start.
2. Look at the dashboard and locate the theft system light
Look at the dashboard and locate the theft system light. It will be blinking on and off. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes until the light stops flashing and stays on.
3. Turn the ignition to the "Off" position
Turn the ignition to the "Off" position to disable the PassLock system, and wait for 20 seconds for the system to reset.
4. Start the vehicle
Start the vehicle. You engine should turn over as normal. If it does not, repeat this procedure three times.
Writer Bio
James Melzer began writing professionally in 2008. He is a novelist and freelance writer from Toronto, Canada. His feature writing has appeared on Digigasms and his journalistic work has appeared on Robodustrial. Melzer holds a degree in radio broadcasting from Loyalist College.
