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.
Vehicle Theft Security System: Notes
The Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) is part of the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM monitors the vehicle doors, liftgate (export only), hood (export only), and the ignition for unauthorized operation. The alarm activates by sounding the horn, flashing the headlamps and the VTSS indicator lamp. The VTSS does not prevent engine operation, this is done with the Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM). The VTSS indicator lamp will flash for approximately 15 seconds during the arming process. If there is no interruption during the arming process, upon completion the VTSS indicator lamp will flash at a slower rate. When the BCM receives an input to trigger the alarm, the BCM will control the outputs of the headlamps, horn, and VTSS lamp for approximately 15 minutes.
Arming (Active and Passive)
Active arming occurs when the ignition key is removed, the RKE transmitter or door key cylinders are used to lock the vehicle doors, whether the doors are open or closed. The arming process is complete only after all doors are closed.
Passive arming occurs when the ignition key is removed, the driver door is opened, and the doors are locked with the power door lock switch, and the door is closed.
Disarming (Active and Passive)
Active disarming occurs when the RKE transmitter is used to unlock the vehicle doors. This disarming will also halt the alarm once it has been activated.
Passive disarming occurs upon normal vehicle entry (unlocking driver door with the key) or turning the ignition switch on with a valid ignition key. This disarming will also halt the alarm once it has been activated.
Tamper Alert
The VTSS tamper alert will sound the horn three times upon disarming after an initial alarming has occurred to indicate a tamper condition has occurred.
Manual Override
The system will not arm if the doors are locked using the manual lock control or if the locks are actuated by an inside occupant after the doors are closed.
Diagnosis
For complaints about the Vehicle Theft Alarm triggering on its own, use the DRBIII® and read the Last VTSS Cause status.
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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.