GM VATS resistor mismatch — GM ECM rejects key — wrong resistor value or broken wire
GM diagnostic code. Below: what it means, common causes, symptoms, and the exact bench-programming fix path.
Common causes
- •Resistor pellet in key worn after 20-30 years of insertions
- •Resistor wire inside ignition lock cylinder fatigued/broken
- •VATS module under dash failed
- •Aftermarket key cut with wrong resistor value
- •Ignition lock cylinder swap broke resistor contact
Symptoms you'll see
- •Cranks normally, no fuel pulse
- •Security light flashing on dashboard
- •Starts then dies after 1-2 seconds
- •Worked yesterday, doesn't today (wire fatigue scenario)
The fix path
Dealer-equivalent fix is ignition lock cylinder replacement + new keyed pellet ($300-500). Community-standard fix is GM VATS Delete ($150) at the ECM level — removes the check entirely so any compatible mechanical key starts the car. Works on all VATS-era ECMs (1227165, 1227727, 1227730, 16139379 etc.).
AML services that fix this
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