Passlock/passkey
 

Hello,
I have a 2004 Alero that I'm going to try to install a security system with remote start. I've been hearing a lot of people having trouble with the passlock system. From what I gathered is all of the keys have a little black chip inside the key near the handle. My Alero key has no such chip. Does this mean my car doesn't has passlock?
Thanks,
Tom

No your car has passlock. Its pretty much standard on GMs since around 96. GM does use the chip in the key on some vehicles, but not the Alero. The Alero uses resistance in the ignition cylinder. When you put the key in the ignition cylinder the BCM reads the resistance that runs through the key. If the resistance is off from what is programmed in the BCM it turns on the theft deterent system (passlock) which shuts down the fuel injectors.