2002 SL1 - Reset Security - Car won't start

[Flipper1694]

My SL1 will not start - something to do with the security system. The security light is blinking when trying to turn the engine. I do not have a remote key or power locks/windows (all posts I've read seem to only involve Remote Keys w/ car alarm.)

Is there a different reset procedure? This happened out of no where yesterday; we've disconnected and reconnected the battery, and have replaced the starter.

Thanks!

[fdryer]

There are four modes of security indications; off, blinking slowly (once every 2-3 seconds), flashing quickly (twice per second) and always on. Remote keyless entry does two things; pressing Lock locks doors and enables Passlock security with a slowly blinking led. Pressing Unlock unlocks doors and disables Passlock. If Passlock is triggered on, the led will blink quickly - if the engine is started, the starter will turn over the engine but Passlock disables injector operation to prevent engine operation and theft. In Tamper mode, a 10 minute reset requires ignition left on for at least 10 minutes before the security led stops blinking/flashing, cycling ignition off before trying a restart where Passlock should have reset to allow normal startup.

[Nino Jones]

I’ve only had my 2002 Saturn SL1 a few months. My Uncle bought it new. The problem with the car not starting due to the security system has been ongoing since he bought it. He took it back to the dealership — they had it for a couple of weeks and couldn’t figure out why the car would not start at times. YOUR solution with turning the key to the on position for 10 minutes, DOES work. Unfortunately, the car is doing this to me all the time-nearly every day. AND, sometimes I do the 10 minute thing until the security light stops flashing, get in, attempt to start it, then it won’t start. Then I have to repeat the procedure sometimes three or four times.
I’m ready to snap. I don’t even lock the car doors. I do not need an alarm system! Please, is there a way to disable it?

[fdryer]

Over the years, several members found a way to disable GMs factory Passlock theft deterrent system - cutting the white wire on the three wire Passlock sensor in the steering column detecting ignition lock cylinder rotation. The wire was cut after the engine was started. If I'm not mistaken, this turned on the security indicator permanently to indicate Passlock detected an internal issue and disabled itself from interfering with everyday driving while turning on security. No more Passlock.

If you can get the engine started successfully and locate the three wire Passlock sensor near the ignition lock cylinder, you can cut the white wire while idling and see if security turns on while the engine remains running. Cycle the engine off then restart. Security should remain on while startup should occur. Be aware that this is not a normal modification and may trigger Passlock into disabling injector operation - when enabled and active with security flashing quickly, the Passlock program in the bcm sends a disable signal to the pcm. The pcm disables injector operation. The starter will crank the engine and spark will occur but without injectors operating the engine will never fire up. This is a key feature of Passlock and similar feature in many other vehicles using factory anti theft programs by using existing electronics in the EFI system and adding a program to disable/enable one or two functions of the EFI system using remotes and/or keys with a rfid microchip.

Reversing this mod simply means splicing the two wires back together to restore Passlock function. Whether the ten minute reset or thirty minute relearn procedure is needed isn't known at this time.