This car has an intermittent no start condition with the security light flashing. Checked codes and found code B2960 stored. The code is for a valid but incorrect passkey signal. Now there are several different things that can cause this code but the most common is a failing passkey sensor which is part of the ignition tumbler kit. Some of the others are a faulty Ignition Switch, Body Control Computer and poor connections in the wiring harness. Because this problem is usually so intermittent there is not much real testing you can do that will result in a clear answer. I have found the only practical thing to do is to look at passkey voltage with a Tech 2 and gently wiggle the wiring some at the ignition switch and the BCM to see if there is any problem with the harness. Also look at passkey voltage while switching the key off and on. It should be about 5 volts when you initially switch the key on and then drop to a value higher than 0 and lower than 5 volts. Normally I see anywhere from .78 to 3.9 volts. If I see no other problems I always change the ignition tumbler kit and install a new ignition switch as well. If one is failing the other will not be far behind. I have seen plenty of these ignition switches fail without a passkey fault so I replace both as a rule.
With that out of the way this is the what you have to do to change the switch. Drop the tilt steering column to the full tilt down position. Remove both of the dash end caps and remove a screw from each end. Start pulling the trim panel from either end until the clips release. If it does not seem to want to release check for any extra screws that may be retaining the panel. If none are found pull harder but please be careful as panels can break.
After the trim panel is released you will have to disconnect the switches. The hazard switch needs the center tab depressed while you pull the harness connector from the switch.
The Traction control switch needs the center tab lifted slightly while the harness connector is pulled from the switch.
You will also need to remove the lower panels. There and a coulpe of retaining screws and a retaining pin or two. After all retainers are removed pull the cover towards the driver’s seat.
Disconnect the trunk release switch if present and now you will find a metal panel.
Remove the attaching screws and place aside.
Next you will need to remove the two 10mm headed screws that hold the switch assembly to the dash.
Next pull the switch down through the opening in the bottom of the dash.
With the key off release the locking tabs and pull the two main harnesses from the ignition switch. Make sure the key is off, it will save programming time.
Next turn the key on and depress the locking tab for the shifter interlock cable and pull the cable out of the switch.
Next depress the metal locking pin that hold the tumbler and sensor assembly into the ignition switch, rotate the key and pull the assembly out of the ignition switch.
Disconnect the sensor wiring harness by depressing the two side locking tabs and pull from the switch.
Install the new ignition switch and then install the new tumbler and sensor assembly.
I have another post for assembly of the tumbler kit. Please click here to see that post.
After the ignition switch and tumbler assembly are back together turn the key on and reinstall the shifter interlock cable. Then Make Sure The Key Is Off and Then Connect The Two Main Harness Connectors. Again this saves programming or relearn time. Now attempt to start the engine. Do Not be surprised if it does not start. Leave The Key ON and Wait about ten minutes or until the security light stops flashing. You may have to repeat this process up to four times in all before the system will relearn the new sensor value. The closer the new sensor value is to the original the quicker it will relearn. On some rare occasions you will have to use a Tech 2 and reprogramming software to teach the system the new value.
Sparky,
Update: 2-26-13
OK, got the car back, and radio is unlocked; airbag light is off; however, the “service vehicle soon message/light” is still on, and I believe the mechanic said all codes are gone except a “1507.” He thought it had something to do with the foglight circuit, which this vehicle doesn’t have.
So am relieved that most of the issues are resolved and of course we did have a bad BCM, however, still left with one problem (hopefully one) to figure out.
Sparky, any ideas?
Thanks,
Frank
Mornin’ Sparky,
The mechanic used “presumably” the software you cite and his laptop.
I was apprehensive about getting the Cardone part, so I asked around to to get opinions, and all came back positive. Moreover, Cardone has a dedicated web-page defining how they refurbish and thoroughly test BCM’s and other like product, thus the decision was made. Of course money (or lack thereof) is the central factor for being so frugal.
I’m going back today to see if these “new” symptoms can be remedied.
I called a friend of mine last night (who owns a shop), and while I was talking to him (and he was looking in his database), he said the “Locked” condition of the radio could trigger the “Service Engine Light” and render a code. So, I am hoping that correcting that will kill two birds with one stone, and that will leave the “airbag light,” which from what you’re saying (if I understand you correctly) just has to be reconfigured properly.
For any of your readers that see this, I would urge that you (speaking to the reader) to read all my posts on this issue, as I performed many “minor actions” before getting to this point (replacing the BCM).
I know many of the “fixes” worked for other people (without replacing the BCM). SO hopefully this information along with Sparky’s expertise will benefit someone else.
I will update later with I hope positive results re these latest symptoms . . ..
Cheers,
Frank
One of two things. The setup and programming was not completely done or you bought someone else’s problems with a reman BCM. As far as I know, the setup can only be done with a Tech 2 scan tool or GM VDI that utilizes Tech2Win on a laptop. The setup includes but is not limited to registering the SDM (Airbag Module) with the BCM, installing the VIN, checking and resetting RPO codes, point of sale information, the VIN and theft relearn.
Good Sparky,
Update: 2-21-13
OK, had the BCM replaced with a reman (Cardone); shop charged $110.00 to flash/program.
Off the cuff the main problems seemed to be solved; however, radio went into lock and after leaving I noticed that the “airbag light” was on constant and have “service engine light on.”
Mechanic said all previous codes are gone, he couldn’t see what was triggering service engine light;I was in a hurry, and there were customers behind so I am going back tomorrow.
I tried the unlock procedure on the radio and I couldn’t get it to reveal the code.
Since the a fore mentioned symptoms were never a problem, I’m presuming something was overlooked while falshing/programming the BCM . . . Sparky you thoughts?
Cheers,
Frank
In checking with the shops, make sure that they have a Tech 2 scan tool or Tech2win software installed on a dedicated computer. A replacement BCM cannot be setup without one. BCM set up is a different procedure from programming. A universal tool will not work. AC Delco brand. Preferably new but rebuilt is okay.