Service theft deterrent, tried reprogramming key, did not work?

CHRIS45899

MEMBER
2003 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE
4.3L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

Okay so, a while back maybe 2015 I lost my keys and fob to my car, I had a locksmith program a key no chip I believe? It’s a 14R3. He managed to get it programmed, *key only* fast forward I stopped using it for about 5 years. I hooked the battery back and now the car won’t start; it won’t even activate the fuel pump. I tried reprogramming the key (that the locksmith programmed) myself but came up unsuccessfully. How do I know if it’s the TCM the DDM? Was it cause the battery was disconnected for so long? Which fuses should I check or relays?

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,913 POSTS

Yes, I would say the battery needs to be replaced and the fuel tank drained and refilled. This guide can help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/step-by-step-guide-to-restarting-a-car-that-has-not-been-started-in

Please use this guide to confirm the battery failure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Please go over these guides and get back to us.

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Friday, June 16th, 2023 AT 11:27 AM

CHRIS45899

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Changed the battery, service theft system light still on.

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Saturday, June 17th, 2023 AT 3:57 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,913 POSTS

Is the light blinking? If so, the system is engaged, I would try to do a hard reboot by following this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/step-by-step-guide-performing-a-hard-system-reboot-for-your-vehicles-electronics-systems

If that doesn't work, we should do a CAN scan, you can get a CAN scanner (Controller Area Network) which will work on most cars from Amazon.

here is a video to show you how:

https://youtu.be/u-4syLc-ifQ

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Here is one for about $99.00 if you need it:

https://amzn.to/3ZixY4v

Please let us know how it goes

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Monday, June 19th, 2023 AT 10:54 AM

CHRIS45899

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Not that either. Let me describe the symptoms further. When I unlock the car and open the door. Security light starts blinking. I put key in ignition, turn in to on. Everything comes on inside. Fuel pump does not activate, relay is good. On the display it has “Service Theft System” (security light stays solid soon as key is in on position) try to turn the car, no crank. Thought it was starter but tried to bypass ignition relay and engine cranks fine. It doesn’t turn over. I’ve tried to leave the key in the ignition for a typical 30 minute relearn procedure. Except security light won’t turn off at all. *Sigh* sorry

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Monday, June 19th, 2023 AT 7:49 PM

KEN L