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General Motors VATS Ignition
General Motors Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) is most noticeable by the “black chip” in
the blade of the key. Originally installed in Corvettes as early as 1986, it was still in use in
the Corvette in 2004. It has been used in all GM brands.
Description of VATS:
VATS is a General Motors (GM) security system that has a resistor embedded in the blade
of the key. There are 15 different resistors in the single sided configuration, and 14
different resistors in the double sided configuration. There is a three minute penalty for
using the incorrect resistor.
Normal operation is for the key, with resistor pellet, to be inserted and turned. If the correct
resistance is read, the VATS Module, through a relay, will allow the starter to crank the
engine and also send a signal to the ECM to allow the operation of the fuel injectors.
Without the correct resistor the injectors and starter are inhibited.
The security derives from the fact that there is a one-in-fourteen / fifteen chance of having
the correct resistor. The worst case scenario when the penalty is invoked (3 x 15) is 45
minutes. This discourages, but does not eliminate, the theft of the vehicle.
PROBLEMS WITH VATS:
The operational issue with VATS is that each time the key is turned two very small wires are
moved inside the steering column. Over a period of time the plastic insulation on the wires
break and finally the wire strands start breaking. As the wire strands break, you will
experience the security light staying ON occasionally. You may wait for approximately three
minutes and try again, and the car MAY start or it may put you in the time-out sequence
again. As you try again, some of the wires that are broken will touch and allow the car to
start. At some point in time, too many of the wires are broken for the correct signal to get
back to the cars computer. The car will no longer start.
Some GM cars, Cadillac’s and Corvette’s are examples, give more information than just a
flashing security light, but the issue is the same.
Whether you have LOST YOUR KEY and need us to make you a key, or you HAVE A KEY
and are just having a problem starting the car, our answer is the same. The steering
column must be torn down. The labor involved is time consuming and costly. The wires
WILL cause problems at some point (probably soon).
Sandfly Locksmith, Inc. no longer does ignition replacement of these vehicles.
We recommend you purchase a QUALITY replacement lock. Then you have two options:
1) IF you still have your VATS key --
Bring in your old key and your new ignition with non vats keys
BEFORE you have your mechanic install it into your vehicle.
2) IF you do not have a key --
After your mechanic has replaced your lock-
we will come to the vehicle,
interrogate the VATS value
cut your new bitting onto the new VATS key
After Market Parts:
Sandfly Locksmith, Inc. recommends a STRATTEC VATS ignition when replacing the ignition.
STRATTEC is the original supplier to GM for most ignitions and locks.
We have found most after market ignitions to be too troublesome for us and the customer.
Below is some information on what is happening when your SECURITY light flashes.
Trouble Shooting Your Cars VATS Problem:
When VATS value is correct:
-SECURITY light goes out after 5 seconds (car can be started)
When SECURITY light flashes at ONE-SECOND intervals:
-NOT a VATS key
-No pellet in VATS key
-WIRE OPEN
When SECURITY light stays on SOLID for more than
5 seconds:
-Three minute timer is SET
-WRONG VATS key
-Contacts dirty or corroded on key or module
-HIGH resistance in wire (wire is ALMOST broken)
-Defective resistor in key
When SECURITY light goes out after
approximately 2:52 minutes:
-Timer is reset
-READY TO TRY NEXT VALUE (VATS KEY)
When SECURITY light remains lit with ENGINE RUNNING
it signifies a VATS error:
-trouble in the VATS module
-low battery voltage
-bad alternator
-bad battery connection
-VATS system disabled
-Contacts dirty or corroded on key or module
-HIGH resistance in wire (wire is ALMOST broken)
-Defective resistor in key
Additional Information:
Additional items that may be repaired while we are in the steering column, if the customer
will let us know they do not work.
- The plastic horn ring connector is usually broken, when the horn doesn't work.
- It is called the “Turn Signal Cancel Cam”. This can be replaced.
- The turn signal not staying ON can be caused by the “Turn Signal Switch” being broken.
- This can also be replaced.
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