Here's the deal , and I hope someone out there can help.

I have a 1994 Pontiac Bonneville with approximately 200k miles. I have two keys, both equiped with the Passkey II chips. When trying to start the car, the fuel pump will not turn on, and the windows, and power locks are inoperable. I have doen various electrical diagnosis', but have failed to find a short in any of the systems. I am thinking it the VATS system that has failed, making the car think that it is being stolen, therefore shutting me out of starting.

I want to bypass the VATS system through the VATS system module, but can not locate the module itself.

Can anyone tell me in detail where this is located?

I would appreciate it.

Tom P.

I doubt if it's a Vats problem because of the windows & locks not working. Sounds more like a problem with the grounds. I'll get back to you in a couple minutes, need to check a wiring diagram.

Windows, locks & fuel pump all ground at G200. These are a group if grounds that run on each side of the car under the carpeting near the door sill. I think g200 is the passenger side but you'd better check both. Here's a pic of what you're looking for.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c120/BCGearhead/Ground%20Bus%20Connector/DSC00977.jpg

I think you might be on to something. I have looked at that, and have suspected that.

I don't have a really good wiring diagram, but I am going to the library tomorrow.

Thank you very much. That helps narrow things down.

PS - If Vats was the problem the starter wouldn't work.
This thread at BonnevilleClub has some pictures of the grounds complete with corrosion. http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=60032 You need to pull the metal bar out and clean everything. I'd add some dielectric grease before reassembly.

That did it!

I have a degree in electronics, and I was all over the car checking the electrical circuits. I was over thinking this one.

Thanks so much for your help.

Car is running right now.

Glad to hear you got it running. Are the locks & windows also working?

Everything is working great!
The buss bar and connectors were extremely corroded; so I went to the salvage yard and cut a very clean one out of a newer Bonneville. I Dremel brushed the bar and connectors a little, butt sliced the wires, put anti-corrosion grease on them, recapped and tape it up. It’s good to go!

Again, thank you for the info.

T.P

Everything is working great!
The buss bar and connectors were extremely corroded; so I went to the salvage yard and cut a very clean one out of a newer Bonneville. I Dremel brushed the bar and connectors a little, butt sliced the wires, put anti-corrosion grease on them, recapped and tape it up. It’s good to go!

Again, thank you for the info.

T.P