Over lunch, I read the "sticky" about steering column locking problems. Although it was very informative, I can't deny that it was a little scary, too. It sounds as though things can happen in the steering column/security system that can leave a person stranded-not an appealing situation.

While driving home, I discovered soon after leaving work that the "Security" light was illuminated on my dashboard. I did a quick look-see and didn't see an ajar door or rear hatch. Now, I'm getting more than a little itchy, so I scratched all my side journeys and went home in case there was an inevitable lock out/disablement/what have you.

I got home (no issues noted or encounterd,) shut my car off, waited ten seconds (I've learned computers like a little time off to reset,) and then promptly restarted my car with no subsequent Security light or other problems. I didn't realize at the time that this would reset all the codes then loaded which may have been active into history codes.

I have B2721H, B2723H, and U1064H in two locations-LDCM and RDCM.

I'm aware that "things that go away on their own" can "come back on their own" and I wouldn't want my Corvette experience, which to date has been incredible, to be tarnished by inaction.

The shop manual refernces the PassKey circuitry and a systems check at startup.

Anyhow, should I be really concerned or am I just being ****? And if I should be concerned, where should I be looking next? The electronics questions, comments, and diagnostics posted scare the crap out of me-I am not a "shade tree mechanic," but there are obviously a lot of very knowledgeable people out there who have some very challenging problems.

To all you smart people out there, from someone who wanted to be a "Corvette Guy" all his life and is now finally living the dream, thanks in advance.

Frank

 

The problem is either a dirty VATS pellet or caused by the key moving in the ignition barrel. If the VATS pellet on the key loses contact with the VATS pick-up in the lock, the resistance on the pellet can't be read so the computer puts up a security light to flag up the problem.

The good news is that the car will not shut down during that ignition cycle so you can drive safely. The bad news is that if the computer can't see the VATS pellet on the next start, the fuel is inhibited and the car is stuck. You did right by going home.

A few things to help:

Clean the VATS pellet on the key to make sure its not dirty and is making a good contact.
Does it occur with the spare key? If so, its probably a worn barrel
Do you hang a bunch of stuff on the keys? It could be the weight of all the extras which is causing the VATS pellet to lose contact.

If all that fails, you're into an ignition barrel refurb. I'll try to find Bill Curlee's link.

BTW, fill out your profile. Many answers are vehicle specific and members can offer advice specific to your car.

 

Now you have me feeling like a doofus. I'm not computer illiterate; but I (believe it or else) couldn't figure out how to update my profile to include "Alice's" data and a picture. The "posting rules" say that I may not post attachments. Is that what is locking me out?

A quick primer here would be helpful to me as well.

Thanks.

Frank

 

I guess I didn't explain it very well. We're both sort of correct

The PASS-Key® system prevents the engine from starting by controlling the theft deterrent relay and the powertrain control module (PCM) fuel enable input. If the PCM does not sense the proper fuel enable signal, fuel will not be provided to the engine.

If the wrong resistance value is sensed when the ignition switch is in the RUN position, the BCM will not ground the theft deterrent relay control circuit and will not provide the fuel enable signal for approximately three minutes. The engine is prevented from starting and discourages a thief from trying key codes or resistance values at random.

The good news is that a thief would have to measure the resistance value on your key to be able to start your car. If he had the key he may as well use it.

 

Only had my 99 a few months, same thing happened but only with 1 key, never the other so is it safe to assume it has to be the key?

 

Your C5 Ignition KEY has a small embedded resistor pellet in it.

That pellet makes contact with a key pellet Sensor on the end of the Ignition Switch. The sensor is the small silver metal can. Inside that can are two metal tabs that contact the resistor pellet when the key is inserted into the ignition switch and that connection with the pellet completes the VATS circuit to the BCM.

One wire in the circuit is 5VDC and the other is the VATS signal wire to the BCM. The 5 VDC supplied voltage goes thru the resistor pellet and the BCM is programmed to look for a very specific voltage as a result of the resistance in the pellet:




IF,, the sensor is dirty, worn, or the key pellet is dirty or worn, it can lose contact with the resistor pellet. As stated above, IF,, you have a lot of weight on your key ring, that and cause the issue.

Bill

 

What's the best way to clean a dirty sensor?