VATS Key Stuck
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 27
Likes: 11
From: Jacksonville FL
VATS Key Stuck
Last weekend, my key cylinder locked up on me in the "on" position. I could push it forward to "crank" position, but could not twist to off. I wiggled it for 30 minutes or so and ultimately gave up. Bought a new key cylinder and used steering wheel puller loaner tool to get the job done today. As pictured, I have the old cylinder still wired in to the VATS so I can fire the car with the new "dummy key". Obviously I need to get a new VATS key cut to match the new dummy key. I know how to ohm the VATS to order a new one, but I still cannot get it out to do that!
Any tricks on how to get the key out? Is there a way I can take apart the cylinder? Would a locksmith be able to do this?
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 25,394
Likes: 2,741
Unplug the connector at the bottom of the column and use the terminals on the harness going down the column and a meter to determine the VATS. Not knowing the year you could also do this, take your registration to a dealer and ask that they do a key code request from GM. Generally the VATS resistance will accompany that request. Most dealers charge for that service.
*** If you've considered bypassing it now would be the time!
*** If you've considered bypassing it now would be the time!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2016
Posts: 2,256
Likes: 3,082
From: So Cal
2023 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
