VATS System Fix

During the years, each vehicle manufacturer has developed their own anti-theft functionality to prevent stealing. As many vehicle company learned, some models became very popular among thieves which encouraged the companies to think of different ways to avoid having their models being labeled as an easy target. Some manufacturers started using the common transponder key system in the mod 90's which made it a little difficult on locksmith technician servicing vehicles equipped with that system. GM had a different version which called VATS system which had a similar function, but caused many issues as the vehicle got older leaving locksmith technicians scratching their head looking for a solution.

A while back I remember getting a call from a customer who was experiencing some issues with the ignition of his 1998 Camaro. According to the customer, the issue just started happening intermittently where the vehicle would normally start and other times it won't. I didn't got to service many of these types of GM models, but I assume the problem would be with the ignition switch that would probably need to be replaced. After discussing the solution with the customer, I started heading his way.

Once I got to the customer's address and had a chance to look inside the vehicle attempting to start the vehicle myself, I noticed that the security light was on. I then pulled my diagnostic equipment from the van and hooked it up to the vehicle and the information I got pointed to an issue with the VATS system of the vehicle. According to my diagnostics equipment the wiring between the ignition and the OBD connector seem to be broken which the only solution for that was to replace the wiring.

At that point I had to call a Boise locksmith co worker of mine for some help regarding the procedure since I never had to go through VATS system wiring repair before. He mentioned I would have to disassemble part of the steering column in order to "fish" the old wiring out and the new one in. After carefully following my co worker instruction, I was able successfully install the new wiring and start the vehicle without any further issues.