QuestionOne day I started my car with the remote starter(model#130XV,viper) for about 10 min, when I get in and engaged into drive I got down a few blocks and the panel said anti theft engaged system will not restart or something to that nature. Anyway I know that this car has wiring issues cause for a while after cleaning the EGR valves, my trunk and gas button wouldn't work after that. Then a month or so later it works again. Since two days ago was the last time I drove my car, it wont turn over or anything, I'll put the key in and turn, NOTHING. I did some research and read something about the key pass thing, or my remote starter toggle switch. What do you think i should do first?
AnswerHi Michelle,
You have the PASS KEY II also known as VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System).
This system is antiquated and problematic. The most common problem with it is the two thin wires (like phone wires) that run down through the column break inside the plastic sheathing. That will give you "Starts at times."
You have altered this situation though, because of having the remote start installed. For the remote start to function in this vehicle, the VATS is bypassed.
Another interesting description is that you state the panel says anti-theft engaged.
I am leaning towards a problem in the remote start wiring or module because you should get no indication about the anti-theft system because the wiring running through the steering column is bypassed by use of a resistor of the correct value matching your key.
I wonder if the resistor they used for the remote start under the dash has a good connection because this instance would cause your problem.
Even if you disable the remote start with toggling the switch if the remote start is stand alone, I think you will have the same problem. Since I can't see the car I can't be absolutely sure, but my theory would be the first place to go.
The wires coming from the column are cut and the resistor is installed in line lying to the vehicle's computer making the computer think the correct key is being used every time.
One other thing of importance. Have a HIDDEN starter disable installed!!!
Even if this is not a stand alone remote start and has an alarm, if you can find the valet (shut off) switch for the alarm, so can a thief! All the thief has to do is get the ignition in the ON position, flip the toggle and the alarm, starter kill for the alarm is disabled.
Alarms are only as good as their installation. If you have an alarm install like I described, you have no protection. Yes, they steal old cars and with the VATS disabled and if you have an alarm installed with the valet switch easily accessible, you are asking to get your car stolen.
Most of the alarm installs I see out there are done by kids that have no concept as to how cars are stolen and they just slap remote starts and alarms in.
In the 12 years we installed alarms, we never had a car stolen by means of defeating the steering column or the ignition. Yes, there were attempts, but no successes. When installing these, we thought like a thief being that we repaired over 10,000 theft recoveries.
One other potential problem: If you look at my questions and answers lately, many are having their theft claims denied because these anti-theft systems are looked at by insurance companies as "Unstealable."
It does not matter if you tell the insurance company that your VATS was bypassed for remote start. It is just another reason they use to deny a theft claim.
Rob
