On my '98 burb, it says there is an ignition disabled based on the key, but my key doesn't look special. I only have 1 key/keyfob right now and before I make a 2nd key, I need to find out if I need the dealer key.

Is there a way to find out without getting a regular key and trying it??

You can get a key cut anywhere for your burb. The security system is somthing like if the swith or tumbler is tampered with without a key. I don't know exactly how it works. I don't think there is a resistor or rf transmitter in any of the keys of this era.

Thanks! It didn't look like the key was "special" and I think I've seen the chevy's that had the little "rf" part to them. I'll probably just spend the $1 or $2 this weekend to get one and try it out...

The rf keys have a large head that houses the rf trans- think newer ford
the vats system has a visable resistor in the metal part- older gm cars

Different systems with name close enough to mix up. PASSLock / PASSKey.


the vats system has a visable resistor in the metal part- older gm cars PASSkey system

GM's old system is also refered to as VATS - Vehicle Anti Theft System.

The security system is somthing like if the swith or tumbler is tampered with without a key. I don't know exactly how it works. I don't think there is a resistor or rf transmitter in any of the keys of this era.
The PASSlock system.

This site explains them a little.
http://www.gm.com/company/gmability/safety/security/theft_deterrence/index.html
A little more info on PASSKey.
http://www.thirdgen.org/vats_passkey_system


The rf keys have a large head that houses the rf trans- think newer ford edman87 is correct.
Ford calls it PATS for Passive Anti Theft System which is close enought to confuse with GM's VATS - Vehicle Anti Theft System.
This site tells about PATS.
http://www.1-800-pdq-keys.com/news.htm


Here is a site that lists many vehicles and which system they have.
http://www.drdetailshop.com/Transponderreference.htm

Different systems with name close enough to mix up. PASSLock / PASSKey.


PASSkey system

GM's old system is also refered to as VATS - Vehicle Anti Theft System.


The PASSlock system.

This site explains them a little.
http://www.gm.com/company/gmability/safety/security/theft_deterrence/index.html
A little more info on PASSKey.
http://www.thirdgen.org/vats_passkey_system


edman87 is correct.
Ford calls it PATS for Passive Anti Theft System which is close enought to confuse with GM's VATS - Vehicle Anti Theft System.
This site tells about PATS.
http://www.1-800-pdq-keys.com/news.htm


Here is a site that lists many vehicles and which system they have.
http://www.drdetailshop.com/Transponderreference.htm




great explanation and sites!! I just got my factory manuals for my '98 and was able to read about it some today also.