Cranks will not start

TRYSTYNNL

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET 1500
5.7L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

Bought the truck the day before yesterday. Ran like a champ. Next day it would crank but wouldn’t start and I ran the battery out. Finally got it to start and then wouldn’t start again after that. Husband decided it was the ignition switch so I ordered the part and it’ll get here next week. The security light has been on since I bought it so I researched how to reset it and everything told me to turn the key to “on” position right before you start it and keep it there to “relearn” the key since it being in antitheft mode would also cause it to not start. Did that. It did everything everyone said it would do as far as the security light going from blinking to solid after 10 minutes but wouldn’t start because the battery was already dead again. I’m not sure what the problem is whether it’s the ignition switch, the security light issue, or the battery now? I guess we can cancel one of those out if the brand new ignition switch doesn’t work next week but has anyone else had this issue?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,272 POSTS

Hi,

First, make sure the battery is fully charged. Then, turn the key to the run position and allow it to stay there for approximately 10 minutes. The light should go off.

If it doesn't and you have a spare key, try that or a 30 minute relearn. Just make sure the battery is fully charged. Here is the procedure:

___________________________

1998 Chevy Truck K 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.7L VIN R
PASSLOCK Reprogramming Auto Learn
Vehicle Accessories and Optional Equipment Antitheft and Alarm Systems Service and Repair Procedures PASSLOCK Reprogramming Auto Learn
PASSLOCK REPROGRAMMING AUTO LEARN
PASSLOCK REPROGRAMMING AUTO LEARN

IMPORTANT: If a new vehicle/powertrain control module (VCM/PCM) is being installed for the first the manufacturing enable bit will be set and the auto learn procedure may not be necessary.

The following procedure allows for anyone to reprogram the EVO/PASSLOCK (TM) module learned data code with any tools, other than the scan tool, when any of the following parts are replaced:
The EVO/PASSLOCK (TM) module
The PASSLOCK(TM) sensor
The VCM/PCM

The EVO/PASSLOCK (TM) module will set the DTC B3031 in the learn mode when entering the reprogramming procedure.

IMPORTANT: Erase the PASSLOCK(TM) related Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that are stored in the VCM/PCM. If there are any powertrain related DTCs, record these DTCs then refer Diagnostic System Check. See: Computers and Control Systems > Testing and Inspection

The following is the Auto Learn Procedure:
1. Insure the ignition key is in the ON position.
2. Clear all EVO/PASSLOCK(TM) module and VCM/PCM DTCs. Record and refer any VCM/PCM DTCs to "Diagnostic System Check". See: Computers and Control Systems > Testing and Inspection
3. Momentarily rotate the ignition key to the CRANK position (Do NOT start the vehicle), then release it to the RUN position (Do NOT key OFF in the process).
4. Wait 10 minutes. Observe the SECURITY indicator. Refer to the following list for the appropriate responses:
If the PASSLOCK(TM) sensor was replaced the SECURITY indicator will flash for the 10 minutes duration.
If the EVO/PASSLOCK(TM) module was replaced, the SECURITY indicator will flash for a few seconds and then remain ON for the remainder of the 10 minutes duration.
If the VCM/PCM was replaced with a new programmed VCM/PCM and connected to the vehicle for the first time, the vehicle will start and this procedure may not be necessary.
If the replacement VCM/PCM was connected to any vehicle at any other time, even momentarily, the SECURITY indicator will flash for a few seconds and then remain ON for the 10 minutes duration.
5. The SECURITY indicator will transition from flashing to ON briefly to OFF after 10 minutes if remaining in the ignition ON position.
6. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and wait for 10 seconds.
7. Repeat steps 3-6 two more times. The new security code is ready to be communicated among the PASSLOCK sensor, EVO/PASSLOCK module and VCM/PCM. The new password is learned on the next ignition lock cylinder cycle from OFF to CRANK to ON (start attempt).

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If you do replace the ignition switch and key, it will require reprogramming.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe