Transponder key question

[70elcaminoss454]

Hello, I bought a 2003 Bonneville a few months back and want to put a remote start on it. I've done them before, but never on a car with a transponder key. Do all 2003 Bonnevilles have these keys? The reason I ask is; I got 2 keys with key fobs with the car. Both have alarm controls and remote door, trunk, panic button. I believe it to be a factory GM security system. It all works fine. The keys are PK3 blanks with the black grip. I also got a grey grip valet key - also PK3 blank. The valet key starts the car exaxtly like the regular keys - almost like the security system is bypassed. I pulled the dash apart (to make sure the car didn't already have a remote start on it) and couldn't find any keys, chips, spliced wires, etc. Any ideas? I'm pretty new to the transponder thing and would appriciate any help. Thanks, Glen

[bobgto65]

I believe the remote starter can be installed but it will bypass the Passkey III system and you will not be able to use your key to start the car.

[zamjohn]

I have an 04 Bonneville SE with the transponder key and yes you can have command start installed in the car and your key will start it. They simply install a bypass module which temporarily bypasses the factory PK and once it runs it re-arms. I have command start in mine and all factory options continue to work including use of the factory key fobs and obviously the command start comes with its own key fobs.

[bobgto65]

Zam, thanks for the info. I might have to get one of those for my '04. Do you have the model number that you purchased?

[DaMaroon]

According to the manual, only difference between the black and gray keys is access to the glove compartment and trunk.

[zamjohn]

The model I have in my 04 is Astro Start HG1077563 with the 6 button fob. This is mfg. by Astroflex. However I'm sure this is no longer available but they will have a number of replacement models that will work. These kits can be purchased for about $150.00 plus install fees & possibly extra charge for bypass module. In my Silverado I have an Autostart model AS 1855 an FM model and very reliable. Both have really good transmission distances of about 1/2 mile. I believe you can download install manual for this from their website www.autostart.ca.

[bolsonic]

Ive been doing remote starters for 15 years, your best bet is to buy a module that will do everything for you. Dont do the valet key thing especially if you havent done a Bonneville before. The ring you have to put around the cylinder and mounting the key in the box is simply a pain in the butt. Plus in the age of all in one module its a bit dinosauric to do so. If you buy a ADS ALCA module it will do every single function the remote starter will require. (Minus 12v, ign, acc, and starter wires) The ADS module does need to be flashed for the car but will provide (thru data) lock, unlock, trunk, arm/disarm of OEM alarm, tacometer signal, brake output, and do the transponder. If you need one I can get you the module, flash it, and give you all wiring info to complete the job. I can also get you a starter. I use Compustar or Viper, which one depends on what the customer wants. (2way, 1 way, LED or LCD)

[00Beast]

The Valet key just doesn't have a slot cut into it lengthways, which disallows access to the glovebox and the trunk, so theoretically you lock the glovebox with your normal key before giving to the valet, and then they can't get into that or the trunk, either by the now locked button in the glove compartment, or the keyhole in the trunk.