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I have an 87 with an intermittent VATS problem. By connecting in the neccesary resistors is this correcting a problem with the chip on the key or a problem on the ignition barrell. In other words would using my spare key solve the problem? It only occurs every once in a while. Also is it true that the VATS locks out 4 minutes extra for every turn of the key? If so I`ll stop trying to start the car when it happens.
Putting the resistors in the line eliminates the VATS key or contacts as the problem (not neccesarily your problem), and allows you to use a non VATS key in the lock. An incorrect reading will cause you to wait appox 4 min. to restart. Damn, I was just thinking this morning there hadn't been any Vats questions for a while. If the security light is off when it fails to start, it isn't the VATS.
the security light does come on so it must be the vats. i was just talking to my brother and he explained that the resistors will bypass the resistance through the key. i`ll do this as it has an aftermarket immobiliser anyway.
"The VATS is controlled by the ECM. Changing locks (PITA) will only work if the key stays the same VATS number, of which there are 15 possibilities. Disabling your VATS would be a solution. Go to a locksmith, they will test your key and be able to sell you a module to disable VATS. Remove the underdash panel on the driver side. You should easily spot a two-wire grouping, I believe yellow/orange/green and white, just to the right of the steering column (as it was on my 1989 TA). You should notice that it disconnects in the middle. Disconnect it, insert the module you got from the locksmith into the wire going towards the firewall. Voila, VATS is now disabled. The module will cost you $25 - and your car will never not start because of VATS. It actually took me longer to remove the underdash panel than it did to locate the wire and insert the module.
As for the security feature of VATS being disabled, only you will know. A car thief will likely pass your car by for another, like a Camry or Honda."
thanks for your help, i cant get a resistance through the key or spare using my multimeter? maybe i`ll take it to a locksmith/electrical shop and see if they can.
to alltocool! will what you described work on a 90 coupe? are these wires in the same place? my 90 is disabled,but the security light does not come on when the key is turned on.the lights work and the check engine light comes on,that's all.---thanks---john
Please go on this site http://www.vatssucks.com/. It has all the information you need regarding VATS and how the system works or doesn't work depending on how you see it.