Is there a way to disconnect the system? a fuse maybe? The dealer said it would be around $350 to replace it, then it would quit coming on, and it has already quit on us once. We couldn't get it to start, turns out it was in the theft mode. We reset it like he told us to, and it was fine for a week, then I used the spare key to unlock it this weekend and it came back on, just a matter of time before it quits and has to be reset again, it does take 10 mins to reset, what a pain. Sounds like just another way to get money from you, for something we cannot fix. Has anyone else figured out how to fix without the dealer? I have used only the spare key for over a year and it is just now starting this problem.

I have the same problem on my '01 Alero, and on my '95 Cutlass before that.


It seems like GM ignition cylinders are really picky about the keys, and when a key gets worn, it won't work consistently. Try having a new key cut from the least worn key you have. Also, I've heard that a heavy keychain can cause this problem.


As a last resort, try replacing the ignition cylinder, but I think only a dealer can do that. If it works, let me know and I'll do it too.