The 1997 Malibu comes with an anti-theft system installed known as Passlock. This system is a passive alarm that becomes armed once you remove the key from ignition. If the wrong key is put into the ignition, the fuel will not be enabled and the car won't start. This prevents non-programmed keys from being able to start the car. You will notice a flashing light on the driver control panel that informs you someone set off the Passlock system. Use the correct Malibu key to reset the anti-theft system.
Insert the correct key into the driver side door and unlock the Malibu. Enter the vehicle and close all the doors.
Insert the key into the ignition without turning the cylinder and check the control panel behind the driver's wheel. If you see nothing flashing, then the system is not activated and no one has attempted to illegally access your car. If you do see the theft light flashing, wait 30 seconds or until the light stops flashing
Turn the ignition and start the Malibu engine once the light turns off. This will reset the Passlock system.
