Passkey

I have been looking at old posts and keep seeing Passkey come up but no explanation of what it is. I have an 04 GT1 and my key says pk3. Does this mean i have to get a key from the dealer and does anyone have an explantion of what it is.



Dan

I have been looking at old posts and keep seeing Passkey come up but no explanation of what it is. I have an 04 GT1 and my key says pk3. Does this mean i have to get a key from the dealer and does anyone have an explantion of what it is.

Dan

Here's something that might help:

GM Passkey I, II, III/Passlock


Since the mid-’80s, General Motors (GM) has used three different theft deterrent systems, but they are all passive, meaning its activation is automatic. It’s operated by communication between a control unit and the ignition key through the ignition switch. If the switch is vandalized, if it’s operated with the wrong key or if the Class 2 communication link is disrupted, the engine won’t start.

The Vehicle Anti Theft System (VATS) was first installed on the 1985 Corvette. The Personal Anti-Theft Security System (PASSkey) replaced VATS in 1988, and while there are some differences, VATS and Passkey I and II all work the same way. There is no radio communication involved; the system merely looks for the ignition key’s unique electronic signature. Passkey III and the newer Passlock systems were introduced in 1998, but the earlier systems weren’t completely phased out until 2003. Passkey III uses radio communications between two modules. There is a small chip in the ignition key called a transponder. When the key is inserted into the ignition switch it sends a code to the vehicles computer through a receiver coil mounted to the barrel. Once the computer has identified it as a valid key, it enables the starter and fuel management systems.


The easiest way to tell the difference is by the appearance of the key. The older Passkey systems all have a pellet imbedded in the ignition key that communicates with the Theft Deterrent Module (TDM). On VATS and Passkey I, the TDM is hidden deep in the dashboard. On Passkey II, the TDM is built into the Body Control Module (BCM). The key’s visible pellet is a resistor, and you can read its value by touching meter probes to the contacts on either side of the pellet. With the key in the ignition, the pellet touches contacts in the lock cylinder. These contacts are wired to the TDM, which reads the value of the resistor to identify the key. If the resistance is correct, the TDM sends a pulse-width modulated signal to the PCM, which then enables the fuel injectors. The TDM also operates the Theft Deterrent Relay (TDR) that allows power to reach the starter solenoid when the key is turned to the START position.



http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/gtp.jpg
Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 104s,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials

Thanks for the info that explains it for me.


Dan

Thanks for the info that explains it for me.


Dan


You're welcome.




http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/gtp.jpg
Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 104s,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials

I got a PK3 blank off of eBay for around 10 bucks, had it cut to match my ket at Home Depot (for free, they only charge for blanks not labor), then used the instructions reprogram the car to recognize it - super simple.
The dealer wanted $85.83 for a new key. Usually when you go there, they think they've got you.
I didn't bend over and take it this time ;-)

I got a PK3 blank off of eBay for around 10 bucks, had it cut to match my ket at Home Depot (for free, they only charge for blanks not labor), then used the instructions reprogram the car to recognize it - super simple.
The dealer wanted $85.83 for a new key. Usually when you go there, they think they've got you.
I didn't bend over and take it this time ;-)


Hi there, I'm attempting to put a new steering coulmn and therefore new key/tumbler into my GP. How did you reset your system to accept your new key???

I private messaged you.

Just wondering if I could get the PK3 programming info from you. I recently bought a 2000 Grand Prix at auction and it only came with one key. I have a new blank coming from ebay and need to know how to program the key once it is cut.
thanks for any help you can provide

I know this is an old thread but May I ask you for the reprogramming info also?
Thanks
Gregg

I know this is an old thread but May I ask you for the reprogramming info also?
Thanks
Gregg do you need to reprogram your old keys or program just a new one?

sorry to say but thread is old and will be closed by the mods