VATS short?

[Boomer]

I have been researching the normal VATS headaches here on the board and I have a question. My security light is on and the car does nothing when I try to crank it. I tried cleaning the key with a pencil eraser and no luck. But I noticed something odd - I just replaced the battery because I ran it down trying to fix this problem and now the Speedometer needle is jumping up and down slightly even with the key in the off position or removed. So I unhooked the battery and it stopped. Could this be a short in the VATS system - isn't it connected to the speedometer some way? One more thing, the wires for the VATS bypass, are they behind the plastic panel under the steering wheel area of the dash? Thanks!

[Firebirdkid96]

Re: VATS short?

Don't know about the location of the VATS bypass wires, but I don't think what you're referring to is a short. It did the same thing to me once.

[David8399]

Re: VATS short?

your key cylinder is bad, there are two wires that run up to your key cylinder and they commonly break.

[Boomer]

Re: VATS short?

your key cylinder is bad, there are two wires that run up to your key cylinder and they commonly break.

Is this something I can tackle by myself as far as re-running wires or replacing the key cylinder or do I need to take it to a shop? I have access to any kind of tool I might need and I don't drive the Camaro daily - and not just because it doesn't drive right now :P.

Edit: Okay I consulted my trusty haynes manual and the only thing I might need is a steering wheel puller. But is it a case of replacing the cylinder or just fixing wires or do I need to pull it apart to see?
Any Idea what a new cylinder costs? Thanks!

[David8399]

Re: VATS short?

steering wheel puller and lock plate remover are the special tools required.

you cant fix the wires, a new cylinder is like $60-80 and you gotta buy a key which is $25. it really isn't that bad to do all you do is unplug it at the bottom undo the bolt in the cylinder cut the wire still connected to the cylinder tie it to the connector on the bottom of the new one and pull it through(very carefully). i have seen people break new ones this way.

[David8399]

Re: VATS short?

Ignition Lock Cylinder Replacement - On Vehicle
Removal Procedure




Remove the steering wheel from the steering column. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement
Insert the ignition key into the lock cylinder.
Leave the key in the LOCK position.





Remove the lock retaining screw (2).
Remove the lock cylinder (1) and harness (4), perform the following:
4.1. Disconnect the terminal connector from the bulkhead connector.

4.2. Remove the wiring protector.

4.3. Disconnect the retaining clip (3) from the lock housing cover sleeve.

4.4. Pull the wire harness (4) through the steering column.

4.5. Remove the lock cylinder (1) from the steering column.

Installation Procedure




Install the lock cylinder (1) and harness (4), perform the following:
1.1. Install the lock cylinder (1) to the vehicle.

1.2. Pull the wire harness (4) through the steering column.

1.3. Connect the retaining clip (3) to the lock housing cover sleeve.

1.4. Install the wiring protector.

1.5. Connect the terminal connector to the bulkhead connector.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

Install the lock retaining screw (2).
Tighten
Tighten the lock retaining screw to 2.5 N·m (22 lb in).





Remove the ignition key from the lock cylinder.
Install the steering wheel to the steering column. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .

[David8399]

Re: VATS short?

alright that worked, never added the pics before. hope it helps

[Boomer]

Re: VATS short?

Thanks, the pics and instructions are awesome :).