My 2001 Chevy malibu wont start. Why doe the theft/security light stay on. I work at
an auto repair shop and this is a customer.
Can you help me fix it? Thanks.


MW:
Hello and welcome. You should have the computer scanned for codes. But most
likely your problem is with the ignition lock cylinder causing the theft/security light.
You will need to replace the Theftlock cylinder and then have the system
re-learned.
Thanks for the tip/donation! I will e-mail a step by step procedure with pics. Since
you are going to do this yourself....

                            

Here are the step-by-step instructions.....                                               
                              
Other related articles:
Theft / Security Light
-----------------------------

The security system on todays cars and trucks prevents the vehicle from
being stolen. There are many variations of the system going back to the
early 1990's.
This warning could be on when the engine is running, indicating a fault has
been detected in the system. If left un repaired, there is a good possibility
that the car will eventually not start.
There are several different possibilities for the cause of the warning,
depending on the make / model / year of the vehicle. Anything from a bad
ignition cylinder wire, to a bad cylinder to a dad Body Control Module (BCM).
After market (non-factory) alarm and remote start systems can cause havoc
with the factory theft system, causing this warning light, or a no start.
Add Your Comment
*
Comments
3-31-11
1999 chevy malibu blinking auto theft light where are the sensors.
4-2-11
There is only one sensor. It is part of the ignition key cylinder, known as
the Passlock Sensor.
7-19-11
Security theft system light comes on Malibu won't start 2 switches Over
the years have been replaced to the tune of 500.00 dollars a new starter
water pump and Gas pump have all been replaced to the tune of 900.00
dollars this time got the car back and it still won't start?????
Hard to say what it could be since you've had quite a few things
replaced. It could be the actual ignition cylinder, not the switch
that is bad. The cylinder is what houses the Passlock sensor for
your theft system. When there is a problem with it, you won't be
able to start the car. It would need to be replaced and the theft
deterrent would need to be re-learned to the new cylinder. If you
can get the car scanned, check to see if there are any theft
system codes. If so, that is your most likely cause.
7-21-11
leave the key in the ON position for ten min...turn back to OFF and then
try to start again....it re-sets the theft system. I have an 2002 Malibu
8-13-11
Correct had a malibu...10 min wait without trying before then. Turn key to
on and leave for ten min. It resets annoying when ready to go
Ask a Mechanic Your Questions In Our Live Chat
Every Tuesday and Thursday Night
8-26-11
Pull the fuel relay fuse and turn the ignition over a few times then replace
the relay and try it. It worked for me haven't had any trouble starting
since.