Passlock Questions

I used to just clean my ignition to solve the security light problem but, this has caught up with me. My 99 Grand Am keeps tripping the security light and refuses to start. I wait the 10 minutes, light goes out and then trips after next attempt to start.

I pulled the following codes:
P1631 - Password Incorrect
P1632 - Fuel Disabled

Question: Do you think replacing the ignition switch, clearing the codes and throwing the system in to relearn will solve the problem? I think so but, the more opinions the better.

I have things torn down to the ignition switch and noticed what I believe is a security cable on back of unit. Any clues how to get this thing to turn loose?

Thanks in advance for your help.
Zmore

ive got what seems to be a similar issue, ive heard that what causes all these problems is carbon bulid up in the ignition cylinder, how would i go about cleaning that as you said you have... as for your question, it sounds like an excellent plan, a worn out switch seems to be the cause of alot of problems in these things... i know im prob not a ton of help... but, your theroy sounds solid to me

Sorry took so long to reply, my work is overflowing right now. Anyway, below is how I cleaned mine, it's not the best fix but will get you home and give you some time to apply a more permanent fix.

I did get away with just cleaning my ignition for 5 years. I usually had to clean twice a year. I used QD Contact Cleaner by CRC (Electrical grade, quick drying formula). Bought mine from WM for about $4 or $5.

Place a very thin small cloth around your key, soak it with the cleaner and insert in ignition. Let it sit a few minutes and remove. Don't use any cloth that can leave fibers in ignition. Cloth has to be super thin. I scarificed one of my wife's real nice pillow cases, think she is still mad about that...
You can also wet key down with cleaner and go in and out several times, wiping key off to remove dirt etc.

But...

I should have paid more attention to the other fixes and either soldered a resistor in-line between yellow and black wire or installed a switch in circuit with yellow wire. (Both of these methods are detailed here in automotive forums). Just do a search for passlock or security light.

Reason why the other fixes are better is because my ignition finally wore enough or something that when I took an ohm reading to come up with proper resistance, it was off. And, since my car would not start at all, the switch fix wouldn't work either.

Current status:
I did not buy a new ignition but instead soldered a pot between the yellow and black wires. I then started at the least known resistance for passlock and slowly increased resistance and found the right spot for my car. It is starting every time now, I just have to put everything back together. Had to remove gage cluster also since my ignition wires would not allow easy access through radio hole. Thinking about putting a drop of super glue on pot screw just in case.

Hope this info helps anyone going through passlock hell.

Zmore