Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
PASSLOCK(tm) SYSTEM
The Passlock(tm) system is designed to prevent vehicle theft by disabling fuel injectors causing engine to stall immediately after starting, unless a mechanical key is used to correctly engage and rotate the Passlock(tm) lock cylinder. Ignition lock cylinder fits inside the ignition lock cylinder case and operates ignition switch when turned by a key with proper mechanical cut. When ignition key is used to turn ignition lock cylinder to START position, a magnet on the lock cylinder passes close to Passlock(tm) sensor within ignition lock cylinder case and produces an analog voltage code in Passlock(tm) sensor. Passlock(tm) module compares voltage code to previously learned voltage code. If codes match, a class 2 message is sent from Passlock(tm) module to Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The message enables the fuel injectors.
If a magnet from outside of the ignition lock cylinder case is used to attempt to steal the vehicle, tamper Hall Effect sensor will be activated. This completes a circuit from security sensor signal circuit through a tamper resistor to security sensor low reference circuit bypassing the security resistor. If ignition switch is forced to rotate without correct key, or if ignition lock cylinder is removed by force, Passlock(tm) sensor will be damaged and will not operate. The components of the Passlock(tm) system are as follows:
- The ignition lock cylinder and key
- The ignition lock cylinder case including the Passlock(tm) Sensor
- The ignition switch
- The theft deterrent control module (Passlock(tm) Module)
- The security indicator (on the instrument cluster)
- The powertrain control module (PCM)
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.