Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) Description and Operation: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora and 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The vehicle theft deterrent (VTD) system functions are provided by the theft deterrent control module. The VTD system prevents vehicle operation if a valid - learned transponder PASS-Key III (PK3) ignition key is not used to start the vehicle. Vehicles with steering column mounted ignition switches have the exciter integral with the theft deterrent control module which is located within the steering column.

Vehicles with instrument panel mounted ignition switches have exciter modules separate from the theft deterrent control module with the vehicle wiring harness connecting the two. The PK3 key has a transponder embedded in the plastic head of the key. The exciter is an antenna which is made up of wire coils which surround the ignition lock cylinder. The PCM enables engine starting when it receives a valid - learned password from the theft deterrent control module via the class 2 serial data circuit. The components of the VTD system are as follows:

The theft deterrent control module
The powertrain control module (PCM)
The ignition key, transponder
The ignition lock cylinder
The security indicator