03 won't start/security light

[Steph1358]

Last night when I tried to go to work I attempted to use the remote starter to turn the van on-the headlights came on but the engine did not turn over. After getting in I tried to start it several times, but the engine just would not catch. This morning when I tried to start it again, a security message appears in the message window and the engine still will not catch. There is enough power from the battery for the radio to work and the interior lights and headlights to come on...but I can not close the rear power windows...

I tried looking this up in the owners manual and have checked the fuses for the Pass-key, do I need a new key? The manual says that if the security light comes on your key may not be recognized. I have two keys and tried them both with the same results. Should I go buy a key and try to program it or have the van towed to a local dealer?

Thanks in Advance

[scottnhalifax]

turn your key to the run position and let it sit for about 15 minutes until the security light goes out. that should fix it
scott.

[ponchonutty]

It sounds like the transponder is failing. It is very common for this to happen. It also could be from the remote start install too depending on what they actually did.

[Steph1358]

Well, I had the darn thing towed and this is what I was told:

The right battery pad (?) came off and has leaked battery acid, the battery has to be replaced and possibly the battery cable. Um...I never realized either of those things could be quite so expensive. I was also told that the intake gasket was leaking so now I'm going to read the several page long thread posted here on that problem. Until last week I never had a problem with this vehicle, now $1500 worth of repairs...

[ponchonutty]

Yep. That's so very common with the 2 problems you said they've found. GM has had silent recalls on both of those problems. My '01 Silverado went through battery once a year for the 1st 3 years we bought it new until I switched dealerships and they found the problem. Replaced the battery the 4th time along with the cables and haven't had a problem since.

Now, with the cable problems it could be possible to cause the security message but not very likely. I still think you'll have that same issue down the road.