Remote Start Problem
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 69
Likes: 0
From: Buffalo New York
Remote Start Problem
Hey guys, so the winter car is acting up.... 03 cavalier, with a python remote starter. When i try and start it with the key fob it cranks and sounds like its going to start but it doesnt(then does this 2 more times) If i get in and start it, it works fine.... Can i fix this myself or do i need to bring it in? 
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 7,709
Likes: 2
From: MidLifeinIL just doesn't have the same ring to it
St. Jude Donor '26
for an answer as I have a similar problem with my Prestige. However, a couple of times that this happened, the truck left me stranded, as it wouldn't start even with the key. The solution both times was to let it sit for about 10 minute, then it started fine. IIRC, some remote starts have a theft sensor of some sort that cuts off the fuel pump for a period of time. So far, 2 trips to the GMC dealer (it was a dealer-install on mine) haven't been able to find the problem, so I eventually stopped using it.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 2,545
Likes: 3
From: 406ci SB, AFR 180 Heads - 490 HP @5,600 RPM 529 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
Put the key in the ignition (just in) see if it will start. Sounds like either a security issue (car) or, the PATS bypass installed not working. If it starts everytime with the key in, take it back and ask them to check the PATS. If not starting with the key in, they may have a wire wrong to security.
Pro
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 598
Likes: 22
From: Gig Harbor, WA
ziggy, your cavalier uses GM's "Passlock 2" system for it's anti-theft system. The remote start kit isn't the problem, it's the anti-theft bypass module thats the problem. Your keys send a code to your ignition system telling the computer that the correct key is there and it allows the fuel pump to initiate and in turn the car to start. The bypass fakes that keycode, but has apparently lost the keycode from it's memory. You'll need to find out what kind of bypass was used and google how to clear the memory and then learn a new keycode.
good luck
good luck
Pro
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 598
Likes: 22
From: Gig Harbor, WA
Or if the remote start bypass was engaged when you try to start your car with the key, the car's ecu will see two of the same keycodes and can also prevent it from starting.
A lot of hackjob remote start installers for GM's VATS (vehicle anit theft system) will just use a resistor inline for the correct key value, then if you use an original key the resistance will be doubled and the car won't start. (Vettes used the VATS system for a long time)
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 8,615
Likes: 60
From: Haymarket Virginia
It definately could still be, if the vehicle went into "lockout" mode. The car would not even start by key untill the security system resets itself and the codes, this can take up to like 40 minutes on some cars.
Or if the remote start bypass was engaged when you try to start your car with the key, the car's ecu will see two of the same keycodes and can also prevent it from starting.
A lot of hackjob remote start installers for GM's VATS (vehicle anit theft system) will just use a resistor inline for the correct key value, then if you use an original key the resistance will be doubled and the car won't start. (Vettes used the VATS system for a long time)
Or if the remote start bypass was engaged when you try to start your car with the key, the car's ecu will see two of the same keycodes and can also prevent it from starting.
A lot of hackjob remote start installers for GM's VATS (vehicle anit theft system) will just use a resistor inline for the correct key value, then if you use an original key the resistance will be doubled and the car won't start. (Vettes used the VATS system for a long time)
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Pro
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 598
Likes: 22
From: Gig Harbor, WA
I think you'll have to reset both units to get the kit working properly again. You might be better off taking it to a shop that does this on a normal basis. Even if it takes them like an hour or two at whatever they charge...prolly still not a bad price for a working remote start.
