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.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2008AVALANCHE 1500 2WD V8-6.0LREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISA L L DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES ( DTC )TESTING AND INSPECTIONP CODE CHARTSP0513
2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2WD V8-6.0L
P0513
2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 2WD V8-6.0LSECTION P0513
DTC P0513
Diagnostic Instructions
* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.
DTC Descriptor
DTC P0513
- Theft Deterrent Key Incorrect
Circuit/System Description
The theft deterrent module (TDM) sends the prerelease password to the engine control module (ECM) via the serial data circuit. The ECM then sends a challenge to the TDM. Both the ECM and TDM perform a calculation on this challenge. If the calculated response from the TDM equals the calculation performed by the ECM, the ECM will allow vehicle starting.
Conditions for Running the DTC
Ignition is in the ACCESSORY or RUN position.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The calculated response from the TDM does not equal the calculation performed by the ECM.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
* The security indicator will illuminate.
* Vehicle starting will be disabled.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
* A current DTC P0513 will be when a valid calculation is received.
* A history DTC will be cleared after 40 malfunction-free ignition cycles or when a scan tool is used to clear DTCs.
Diagnostic Aids
The "key" referenced in the DTC descriptor does not refer to the vehicle key. In this case, "key" is referring to the challenge response.
Circuit/System Verification
Important: Because of normal system communications between the TDM and ECM, any theft deterrent B-codes must be diagnosed prior to the diagnosis of P-codes.
Perform the 10-Minute Immobilizer Relearn procedure. Refer to Immobilizer System Component Programming. The ECM should successfully complete the password learn and the vehicle should start. Programming and Relearning
If the ECM does not complete the learn or vehicle starting remains disabled, replace the ECM.
Repair Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure. Verification Tests
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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.