Steering Column Repair: Cavalier Anti Theft, intermittant, trouble code

Question
I have a 1996 Cavalier that ran fine until I shut it off one day and tried to start it 5 minutes later.  The anti theft light stays on and it rolls over and ocassionally fires but that is all.  Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Scott

Answer
Hi,

If the anti-theft light comes on in this PASS LOCK system, you should be able to take it to a dealer to read the trouble code in order to diagnose.
The way your system works is by the rotation of the ignition lock. If for some reason the vehicle's computer does not see the rotation of the lock, the engine will crank, but will not start.
One very common problem I have seen with this system is an intermittant "No start" condition.
There is a magnetic field between the ignition lock and the housing. If this magnetic field is broken or interrupted, the engine will not start. The design is somewhat flawed. Many locks have the wafers (tumblers) encased in another housing before it fits into the steering column. On your style the lock plug (where the wafers are kept) is fully exposed to the housing and magetic field. Ignition locks are greased from the factory. This grease occassionally will spray into the housing making it so the computer cannot see the rotation of the lock because the magnets are covered in grease.
I am not stating this is your problem, but it may be. The correction is to have the ignition lock removed by a locksmith. Spray brake cleaner on the lock and clean the housing real well and reinstall the lock. If this is the problem and if this service is performed, you will go years before having another problem.
I would suggest however to see what trouble codes are displayed.
I gave you the most common problem, but if that is not the problem there are many things that can go wrong in this system.

I hope I helped you.

Rob