Car Alarms: security system reset, google search, pontiac bonnevile

Question
I have a 1997 Pontiac Bonnevile that the security system light came on and will not let me start it.  Is there a way to reset the system?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
The 1997 Bonneville has what GM refers to as a VATS system.  Your key has a small pellet in it that is actually nothing more than a resistor.  When you insert your key into the ignition there are two contacts that touch the sides of the pellet.  The vehicle needs to see the proper resistance across those points for it to start.  It seems as if your vehicle is no longer seeing the proper resistance.  This may be caused by the contacts in the key cylinder no longer making good contact with the key.

In my opinion you have two options:
1.  Have the key cylinder replaced.  This is a pricey option but will retain the integrity of the factory "Vehicle Anti-theft System".

2. Bypass the VATS system.  There are plenty of resources on the internet that explain how to do this in great detail.  This requires cutting a wire and a very inexpensive resistor tied across the VATS wiring in the ignition harness.  Although this would disable the vehicle's anti-theft system, it should be a much cheaper option.   

A quick google search on "vats bypass" shows many articles written on the system.  Here is one I found http://www.thirdgen.org/vats