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.
Diagnostic Information for Inoperative Remote Vehicle Start (08-08-52-002)
Reference number: 08-08-52-002
Diagnostic Information for Inoperative Remote Vehicle Start
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| Affected Model(s): | 2005-2008 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks (including Saturn); 2005-2008 HUMMER H2; with Remote Keyless Entry RPOs AP3 or AP8 |
SERVICE INFORMATION
| Do This | Don't Do This |
|---|---|
| Follow Bulletin Instructions / Perform Strategy Based Diagnostics. | Do NOT Replace Hood Latch Switch. Do NOT Replace Key Fob or RCDLRs. |
Remote Vehicle Start (RVS) Inoperative Diagnostic Concerns
Information on Hood Latch Switches
One of the many components involved in the Remote Vehicle Starting System is the Hood Latch Switch. The state of this switch is checked by the BCM during a remote vehicle start request and the component must function properly in order for the vehicle to commence a remote start event. During the infancy of this option (RPO AP3/AP8), parts return analysis showed a significantly shorter than expected component life for the Hood Latch Switch shared across many different GM vehicles.
The switches currently being factory installed, and sent as service replacement parts, are vastly improved in design and suitably robust. Most hood latch switches currently returned under warranty are analyzed and determined to have no trouble found (NTF). It is understandable and desirable that technicians gain familiarity with the vehicles they service on a daily basis, however it is required that technicians follow Strategy Based Diagnostics before replacing this switch.
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:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.