what is the pass-code II decoder module

Series I L27 (1992-1994 SE,SLE, SSE) & Series II L36 (1995-1999 SE, SSE, SLE) and common problems for the Series I and II L67 (all supercharged models 92-99) Including Olds 88's, Olds LSS's, Olds 98 91-96, Buick Lesabres and Park Avenue 91-96. Please use General Chat for non-mechanical issues, and Performance and Brainstorming for improvements.
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Hunt4RedOctober
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Posts: 10
Joined: Mon Sep 08, 2008 2:03 pm
Year and Trim: 1994 pontiac bonneville ssei

what is the pass-code II decoder module

Post by Hunt4RedOctober »

what is the pass-key II decoder module/starter enable relay control does that have to do with the factory alarm because when i tried to run a straight wire from the ignition wire to the swich wire to the starter the car starts and stalls right away any ideas and if so is there away to bypass it :bstooges:
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clm2112
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Joined: Tue May 20, 2008 9:11 pm
Year and Trim: 1990 Bonneville LE
Location: Fayette City,PA

Re: what is the pass-code II decoder module

Post by clm2112 »

The Pass-Key module (aka VATS) looks at the resistor in the key, then it outputs a signal (not a simple on/off) to the PCM to let the car run. You will get the "Security" light lit on the instrument panel as well.

You can bypass it only by inserting a resistor in the circuit in place of the lock cylinder contacts to simulate the correct key in the ignition (typical if the contacts inside the lock cylinder are so worn out that they cannont read the key)

There's 15 resistance values possible on the key.

Typically, the contacts in the lock cylinder get dirty or wear out. The entire lock cylinder can be replaced (see a locksmith) or taken apart and contacts replaced.

Last, if you are able to reprogram the PCM (tunercat or similar) you can turn off the VATS Diagnostic and VATS Select flags in the calibrator...mimicking a car that did not have Pass-Key installed at the factory.
Last edited by clm2112 on Thu Sep 25, 2008 2:22 pm, edited 3 times in total.
Bye Bye 1990 Bonneville LE... Now it belongs to my daughter
In the Garage: 2009 Subaru Outback, 1987 Camaro, 2006 SV650S, 1995 Regal 182 "ASANAGI", 1962 Ford Galaxie 500, 1995 Ford F150 XL 4WD, 1953 Farmall Cub
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