electrical problem
8.1
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$509.00
Average Mileage:
87,135 miles
Number of complaints:
120 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (41 reports)
- letting car sit for approx 30 minutes (29 reports)
- recall (7 reports)
- replace ignition switch (6 reports)
- wait 10 min till securty light stops flashing, try again (6 reports)
- replaced body control module (5 reports)
Helpful Websites About 2002 Chevrolet Impala passlock problem, won't start and security light is on
2008Dec 20
Impala LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 146,000 miles
My F'n 2002 Chevy impala is currently not working the "Security" light is on and have stopped my engine for a total of 3 days now and i mean 3 days. When this happened before it only took about 15-20 mins now its been 3 days when the action suit becomes in affect please contact me so i can join because this is very stressful right before christmas..The dealer said it may take $400 plus to fix what do i do......
2008Dec 18
Impala Limited V6
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
I had this problem with my 2002 Chevy Impala too. It started with my car not turning over. Every thing turned on but it would not turn over. I would wiggle the steering wheel a few times and wait 20 minutes or so and then it would start up. This would happen maybe once a month maybe less. Then one day my key would not even turn. I had to get it towed and the total cost was a little over $400.00. After seeing other peoples cost to have it repaired I guess $400.00 wasn't all that bad. I think their should be a recall on this. It's only fare.
2008May 17
Impala 3.5L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
I've had numerous problems with this car. Thank you GM for Dex-cool. I just traded 2 weeks ago for a Pontiac Montana SV6. Couldn't handle this latest issue anymore. The problem with the security lock out was the icing on the cake. I also HAD the turn signal issue, coolant issue, headlight issue. We just needed to get rid of it. Even though it blue booked at 1800 to 2200 with the issues, the salesman knew the minute he got in my car and looked at the dash and the low coolant light was on what was up. I got 1100 for it. I would suggest if anyone is having one of the issues get rid of the car. You will develop more.
2007Dec 10
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 74,565 miles
I have been noticing many people are having some sort of bad electrical experience with these Impalas. I have started a petition so no one will have to bear the massive cost of this KNOWN ISSUE which should have gone through a RECALL.
Sign it here: http://www.petitiononline.com/75020780/petition.html
2008Oct 31
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 111,000 miles
car lights blink after driving security light blinks with lights on console and radio clicking noise heard and even when car of after drive headlight blink and radio stays on for couple of mins could break down or blow up anytime not sure
2008Apr 15
Impala LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 98,000 miles
I went grocery shopping one day. I put all my groceries in my car. I went to start it and it didn't start. The security light was on. It was late at night and I had to have a friend come and get me. She left her house. I just kept letting the car sit and tried to restart it. After about 45 millions tires, it turned over and started. I took it to a dealer and was told that it would cost so much to fix it, it wouldnt be worth it. I was informed that a lot of these cars do that and to get rid of it as soon as possible...Great!!! Thx!!
2008Nov 30
Impala Impala 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 179,576 miles
THIS IS THE 2ND TIME IN A WEEK THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED.
ANNOYING BECAUSE IT HAPPENS AT RANDOM. INITIALLY THOUGHT IT WAS AN IGNITION PROBLEM WHILE ENGINE TURNS OVER ONCE, MISFIRES AND DOES NOT START. IT ALWAYS WOULD START ON THE SECOND TRY. AS OF LATE WHEN I TRY TO START THE SECOND TIME ,THE COMPUTER CONTINUES TO DELIVER FUEL TO THE INJECTORS AND FLOODS THE ENGINE. HAVE TO WAIT A COUPLE OF HOURS TO RESTART ENGINE.
FORTUNATELY I HAVE A GOOD MECHANIC AND HE ADVISED ME TO LOOK AT THE ANTI-THEFT (FLASHING LIGHT IN THE GAUGES AREA) AND SEE IF THE RED FLASHING LIGHT STAYS ON OR OFF. MY MECHANIC SAID THE NEXT TIME THIS HAPPENS TURN THE IGNITION KEY ON AND DON'T TRY TO RE-START, JUST LEAVE IT ON THE ACCESSORIES SETTING FOR 10 MINUTES. THIS SHOULD CLEAR OUT THIS PROBLEM AND RE-SET THE ANTI-THEFT TO ITS CORRECT SETTING. HAVE NOT DONE SO YET AND I'LL FIND OUT IF THIS WORKS WHEN I GO OUT TO START MY CAR AFTER WORK TODAY.
2008Oct 30
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 79,000 miles
it's the same thing as everyone else. we just need a recall from Chevy. I love Chevy but this is really a pain in the ass and unreliable that it makes me think of going foreign.
2008Sep 01
Impala 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
I have put together instructions for by-passing the security system. This will correct most if not all of the complaints on here.
shofner_aron_w@yahoo.com
2008Sep 11
Impala 2.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 133,000 miles
My car for whatever reason decided just not to start. It has something to do with the module not being able to read my key. I had my car up on the wrecker before it would finally start. Please Please Please if you have this problem let me know! Im trying to make GM responsible for this problem that is so common with Chevy Impalas. I think that GM needs to stand behind their faulty product and make good on it for consumers! If you have this problem a quick fix is to disconnect the positive battery cable then reconnect it.
2008Aug 24
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 86,992 miles
I only had the car not starting once recently. But now the Passlock light comes on all the time while I was driving. It is very stressful knowing that the car may not start next time I need to go to work or some other places in a rush. Dealership wanted to replace the ignition cylinder, the computer, etc for over $800 and reading some of the comments here, it might not even fix the problem. There should be a recall from GM to fix this inherent design problem. May be a class action lawsuit would force them to do this.
2008Sep 10
Impala 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Well I just bought this car from my boss and it was suppose to be a dependable car. Well it did have the 4 doors that my family of 5 needed, but my wife has been stranded twice now and it is more of a pain then anything.
Problem first happened when she was giving a friend of ours a ride and she allowed her to unlock the door while the car was still in drive to exit the front passenger door.The door was shut and my wife drove off, she said about 5 miles later the security light came on and stayed on.Once she turned it off it wouldn't start back up? Well I told her to not allow the doors to be opened unless it is in park and then today she had it happen again.This time car was in park, then passenger door opened , then turned off car. Went and did what she needed to came back out on wouldn't let her start the care again.
Both times it took her 15-20 mins of waiting and trying stuff to finally get it to start.Of course she told me I can take the p.o.s car and shuv it ! and I found this website and found I am not alone in the sh*t hole of a mess ! Chevy should recall these cars and fix the damn problem ! If any body has a way to fix it please contact me.
2008Aug 30
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 93,600 miles
have same problems a week ago car would not start lights would not go off security light comes on now the radio locks doors would not lock husband looked on the net and found this web site i called Chevy he said that i need to go to the dealer and get a diagnosis then call him back he will then call the dealer about the problem then he would write in a a complaint he said they have to get a certain amount of complaints before they can do investigation for a recall so please start calling and complaining 1-800-222-1020 this needs to be took care of
2007Jul 15
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 106,876 miles
My car thinks I am trying to steal it. It will not recognize my key. Without warning I went to start my car and nothing. Not a sound or a ping just nothing. It was pouring rain I was late for an appointment and still nothing. called CAA even he was at a loss as to why it would not start. Towed to dealership paid eighty dollars for a diagnostic to be told it was the passlock system. What's a passlock system I asked? More over it must be covered as this is not a result of lack of maintenance just luck of the draw. Much to my surprise not covered. I chose to pursue this with GM and not have it repaired immediately as the car started just fine for the mechanic. I was told about the "turn your key to accessory - wait ten minute trick and off I went. After the diagnostic the passlock warning light started to flash occasionally as I am turning off the ignition. Then as I emailed, called and kept going up one more level of management with GM for six to eight weeks the passlock light would come on and stay on as I was driving. GM refused to do any thing about it telling me if this had happened while under warranty they would have but not now. Why not, this is a wide spread problem with many makes and models of GM vehicles (as I discovered on the internet) to a system I had no choice of opting out of when I purchased my car. It is not an internal system to the operating of a vehicle and has no maintenance schedule. I was quoted a cost of $700.00 to repair the problem with no direct guarantee this would not possibly re occur. So I live with the problem. When the ten minute trick doesn't work (Which happens every 5 to 6 months I take my car to another GM dealer ship pay $80.00 for a diagnostic (since they told me this does a reset) and continue to pester GM to do something about this problem. Excessive heat seems to accelerate the occurrence rate of the problem as well as severe electrical storms. It haunts me! I am frustrated to no end that had this happened 12,000 km earlier GM would have gladly fixed the problem but now refuse rather rudely to admit the passlock system is a problem.
2006Sep 02
Impala 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
The problem is bad... Same thing as the others.... Getting worse as time goes on, Seems like the Hotter weather and humidity really make it act up! Not as much of a problem in the winter months...
2005Apr 20
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
First off I never even knew I had a security system until the light started flashing and my car wouldn't start. That was roughly 21/2 years ago and it's still a problem. I've tried everything. Recently took the car to a Chevy dealer and they said it would cost me $800.00 for a new ignition, ignition housing and computer module. I asked if there was any way to disable the system and they of course said there was no way. Come to find out there is a way but dealers refuse to disable it seeing as they it makes them money.
I will never buy a Chevy again. It's ridiculous that every time I go to my car there's a 30% chance of it actually starting. I even called the GM Headquarters and was fighting with the guy for 45 minutes, all he had to say was it was my problem and they can do nothing to help me. There has been times when my car wouldn't start for months. The security system ended up draining the battery costing me a new battery also. Now it starts and the radio is locked..don't know what to do. I've had it with Chevy!!
2008Aug 28
Impala V6
- Automatic transmission
- 59,302 miles
I have had this problem with my 2002 model for 3 years. I have replaced the battery and ignition switch ($900.00) and none of this done any good. The car starts when it wants. This maddening nightmare should fall under a recall. I paid this car off really early but, if I had known of all the nightmare problems I was going to have I would never have purchased this pice of junk. It was brand new but has only give me stress and grief. The car dealership acts like your the crazy one. Chrysler should be ashamed of this car and do the right thing. You cannot drive it without always waiting for it not to crank and sooner or later "it won't."
2008Aug 24
Impala 3.3lV6
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
Well, what can I say. I have suffered this passlock problem with my 20002 Impala for the last 3 years. Passlock service light comes on, and then I cannot start my car. O'Reagan's my dealer in Halifax says well it could be a computer module ($300) or it could be the ignition switch ($175+). Not a bit of help in short. Why should I eat a big repair bill so they can try any number of things at my expense. How is it that a Chev dealer cannot tell me what the problem is with their car? Infuriating to say the least. I am getting fed up. It is clear that I am not alone with this. I am reduced to waiting 10 minutes until the computer seems to reboot, and then proceed. But 3-4 times a day is ridiculous. My professional work requires that I be on time. I have no confidence in my car as transportation at this point. I would definitely not buy another Chev product based on this, nor would I recommend one to anyone else. This should be a recall, and a class action suit is certainly reasonable given the number of people affected. GM should be ashamed of themselves. This is obviously a major problem with their vehicle, and they should be professional enough to admit it and fix it. The Impala is not a cheap car. The response from my dealer HAS been cheap. No wonder GM is going belly up.
2008Aug 20
Impala HD 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 151,000 miles
If you are having problems with your 2002 Chevrolet Impala NOT STARTING FOR NO APPARENT REASON, MECHANICS CANT DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AND YOU ARE JUST WASTING MONEY TRYING TO TEND TO THIS ISSUE, CALL GENERAL MOTORS CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE AND REPORT IT. That would be the best thing to do. If GM get enough honest and sincere complaints, they may look into this problem.
2007Jan 10
Impala 3.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 122,000 miles
My problem started after I replaced the ignition switch because the key had stopped turning. It worked perfectly for about 6 months. Then I started needing to re-program it once in a while, especially in cold weather. I was told about 1 in 4 replacement switches will do this. After a few months the security light came on and stayed on. But the car started every time. after about 4 months the light went off and the problem started again. It happens 1 - 2 times a day now. I noticed that when the security light is on constantly while I drive, it will start the next time. When it goes out, I have to re-program it the next time. The A/C or radio has not been affected by this. I tried the quick fix, but with no luck. Maybe I didn't do it right. All the "dinging" stopps in about 5 or 6 seconds. How long should I wait? Chevy should definitely fix this. The problem is too widely known for it not to be their fault. If a class-action gets going, let me in.
2008Feb 01
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
some mornings it requires nothing more other than turn the key to start , maybe pull the cluster fuse once or twice and starts up .....after that when it gets hot here in Arizona it gets worse , i may have to hose off under the hood then maybe pulling the cluster fuse out , and after many attempts the dash lights up and yes red warning light too then i may have to hold the key in the start position for several minutes to get the starter to crank , thats only part of it turn off the key and pull it out everything remains on radio, dashlights ,whatever uses power then i have to pull out the cluster fuse and put it back in to shut down everything, i also experimented with the bcm i found that the metal bracket the bcm is attached is very hot from heat the the body gets from the sun , heat travels with metal even to inside the vehicle . i also put the bcm unit in a freezer for about an hour in the heat of the day and like clock work my car acted right started right up a few times the ding ding for having key in and door open sounded out i couldnt be happier although that was not to be long lived as it got hot all failed miserably ...... i don't have 100's of dollars to spend to see if this or that is the problem , i will find another bcm myself and have it programmed and do the labor myself i am willing go that far for now wish me luck thanx
2008Sep 03
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
Security light would turn on a few months ago intermittently.
Then it changed to always on. The exterior and interior lights would flash 3 times when starting the car. There is a clicking sound when that happens.
Now, security stays on, all lights flash, and AC doesn't blow cold air.
I tried the suggestion from complaint 85 and it seems to work for the time being.
1) Get in and shut all the doors.
2) Put key to "on" position
3) Wait until all the dinging and the sounds go QUIET.
4) Turn the car on and all security remains OFF.
Weird workaround but its working for the time being. I don't feel like dishing out 600 bucks for a problem that some people say its the BCM and others says its the ingnition cylindar.
The whole passlock bypass is confusing to me and I don't want to screw up my car.
2007Jun 13
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 74,000 miles
I have a complaint on here, see number 86. I would like to propose to all the fellow 2002 Impala owners to join forces to enact a class action lawsuit to get this issue resolved before a death occurs.
2008Jul 15
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 105,000 miles
I first started noticing out of the ordinary things with my car in March. First thing that happened is that on the message center of my dashboard it kept lighting up Security in the middle of me driving and wouldn't go off until I stopped and turned off my car but that was it. Then a week later I was driving at night and the security light came on again and my headlights started flickering. That's when I called the dealership and got in touch with someone nice that asked me if I had any extra weight on my keychain, which I had recently added some chains onto it, and he said that if there was extra weight it would offset the ignition and cause the security light to come on. So all I had to do was take off the weight and it should reverse the problem if it hadn't been on there too long. Well this worked for about a month and the security light would come on once every other week. But starting in May the fuse for my automatic lights kept going out and I since now (July) I have replaced about 4 fuses because they keep burning out. And today I drive to work the car is working fine and then I get ready to leave and my car wouldn't start. The lights, radio, and dashboard came on but the car wouldn't start. And to my dismay the check engine light came on and flashed to security and flashed to service vehicle soon. I knew it wasn't the battery and I called the dealership and they said it sounded like a problem with Passlock and to bring it in. But I'd rather not shell out all that money when there may be cheaper alternatives. I've had this car for 6 years now brand new and over 100,000 miles and haven't had any problems until now. SOMEONE HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2008Jul 01
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
This type of problem should be covered for parts and labor in all vehicles for the life of the vehicle BY LAW!
2007Jun 05
Impala 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
I have been having the same passlock problem for about a year. It started at about 76,000 miles. I now have about 118,000 miles on the car, and it has been happening intermittently the whole time. When I turn the key to start the car, the engine will not turn over, and the security light begins flashing. I told the salesman who sold it to me what was happening, and was told that i should use another key because the car wasn't recognizing the one i was using. I switched keys, to no avail. I have to believe all salespeople at chevy dealerships know of this problem, but since there is no commonly known way to bypass the passlock system, they just keep selling impalas without disclosing the possible risks. And their is pretty significant risk when buying a car with this faulty theft-deterrent system. It's more than just a pain in the ass. I have been stuck in blinding heat and humidity as well as freezing cold (I live in Michigan). This is potentially dangerous to the driver, depending on what situation they may be stuck in until the car feels like starting. Usually, the car will start if I just wait ten minutes for the securty light to stop flashing and try to start the car again. But a few times, I have been stuck for more than 30 minutes. I've read all of the complaints, and don't intend to spend any money trying to get this fixed. Sounds like all of the people who posted this same complaint have spent hundreds replacing various parts, and the problem still occurs. My original intent when buying the Impala was to pay it off and drive it for as long as it would still start, hopefully 200-300,000 miles. I thought I was buying a quality car from a quality American company. I thought it would run for years after paying it off. Now I just want to be rid of the damn thing. I'm sure I won't be able to sell the car, though I'd like to...I can't sell it to someone else without disclosing these problems, and if I do disclose, I am sure I won't be able to sell it. I guess I am stuck paying it off, at which point I will just get something else. NEVER ANOTHER CHEVY I intend to tell everyone I know about this problem, and never buy another Chevy. It's too bad, I really like everything else about the car. If Chevy would just institute a recall and disable the Passlock system with no charge to the car owners, I would be perfectly happy with the car.
2008Jun 01
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 138,000 miles
I have a 2002 Chevy Impala LS, that I loved up until about a month ago. It just started going crazy. The first thing that I noticed was a clicking noise coming from the fuse box on the passenger side. We opened the box and the noise was coming from the battery run down relay breaker and it was very hot. We replaced this breaker and while waiting for the breaker to come in at the parts store I noticed while driving that my AC would blow hot air and my radio would lock. After about 10 - 30 minutes of driving the AC would finally kick in and blow cold air and the radio would come on again. After putting in new relay breaker the problem still continued. The problem gets worse from here. Sometimes when you go to start the car it will not start, the head lights go crazy and flash on and off while driving. The message center is flashing Security, Service Vehicle Soon, Change Oil, when you park the car and remove the key from the ignition the car still makes the dinging noise that it does if you leave your keys in the ignition. The problem seems to appear in the middle of the day when the temperature outside is very hot. I can drive the car early in the morning and at night and these problems do not occur.
I have taken this car to 3 mechanics and none of them know what the problem is. The last place I took it to was an Auto Electric Repair Center and they said that it sounded like the BCM and that it would cost about $550+ to fix and if it wasn't that he would change out the ignition switch next. No Guarantees that this will fix the problem. The last resort is the dealer and from what I am reading they don't know how to fix this problem either.
If you have any suggestions or soutions for this problem please let me know.
2007Jul 31
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,894 miles
This problem first occurred when my mother owned the car.
She told me a funny light (Passlock) came on and when she next went to start the car it wouldn't start. I went over to see it and wouldn't you know it the car started fine. I took it home with me to use it for a few days and no problems until driving it back to her place when all the electrical systems shut off, radio, lights, flashers, and then eventually the car. It restarted without problems but I decided to take it in to the dealer.
They told me it was the Body control Module (BCM). It was a defective part that was no longer covered under warranty!! I told my mother about this and she told me about my father complaining about this to techs at the dealership and being told, "Oh don't worry about it, it's nothing. We'll just reset the sensor." Of course the part would have been under warranty at the time! I bought the car from my mom (so she could buy herself something smaller) and had the work done, $650 later and it was fine until just recently.
About a month ago I pumped some air into my tire and reset the monitor, and the car wouldn't start! I tried to start and start again and again but nothing doing. I walked to a nearby mechanic asked if he could take a look. He went to the gas station and it started up no problem. Two weeks later the exact same story, pretty much word for word!! A week later I filled my gas tank, tried to start the car, wouldn't start, tried a few more times (figuring it was this problem AGAIN) waited a minute or two tried again and it restarted finally. These incidents all happened at the same gas station, I figured it is haunted so I haven't been back and avoid it at all costs now!!
I must say that my family has always been a GM family, mother, father, brother, brother-in-law, always bought American (and more specifically GM) first, but after this and other comparable stories from people, I will personally not ever buy another American car again! It isn't the fact that there is a problem, it is the randomness of it. There isn't a warning or some sort of behavior from the car first, no it just happens!! Each time there is different way to finally get it started again. I can no longer defend my Chevy to anyone anymore. I had previously owned a Cutlass and it only had electrical problems, now this from a ten year younger Impala!! I feel bad for the workers at the closing plants and all their families but, for a catastrophic down fall of a once powerhous company, ALL involved must share some of the blame!! The American label alone will no longer be enough, my next cars will all be imports because I'm fed up of the North American manufacturers, lack of quality, service, and action. In the end they are getting what they deserve!
2008Jun 25
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
We have had our 2002 Impala for about 6 months. We have not had any problems at all with the car and have been totally impressed with the quality of the car. Plenty of power and around 30 mpg. Last week we were about 50 miles from home shopping and had several stops and starts. We were leaving Walmart and all got in the car and I went to start and nothing. I presumed the battery was dead. I turned on the headlights and got out to see if they were on. They were so I knew the battery was ok. Next I thought the starter was bad. Sometimes if your starter lets you down, you can tap on it and your vehicle will start. This did not help either. I set back down in the car and noticed that with the key on, the radio was not lit up, the daytime headlights were not on and the a/c blower would not blow. We always have the radio on, so it should have been lit up. I PUSHED THE RADIO POWER BUTTON AND THE DAY DRIVING HEADLIGHTS, RADIO AND A/C ALL CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED NORMAL. Now when the car is running the security light stays on. I have made an appointment to get things checked out by a shop later in the week. I presume from what I have read it is the Passlock System. The car will not start at all now unless you push the radio power button. I know this seems strange but I thought I would throw out my 2 cents worth of info in case it helps someone out.
2008Jun 01
Impala 3.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
I have been having the same trouble as all the rest of you with this passlock. I call the dealer and was told to bring it in and they would be glad to look at the car for $95 and the fix could run between $400 and $600 to fix.
But I was thinking, what if I have a Auto car start installed this would bypass the passlock and no key issue right ? These cost around $200 cheap fix.
Can anyone tell me if they have tried this? before i go and spend the money. Use the send comment link below. Thanks!
2007Jun 15
Impala LX 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 75,000 miles
2002 impala starting problems because of passlock - Wife, kids and myself have now been stranded in the past 3 weeks because of this problem. 3 months ago mechanic replaced the ignition - worked ok up till 3 wks ago. This is a problem affecting all Chevy models and has been going on for years. Chevy refuses to do a recall. I will get what I can on a trade in and never buy a Chevy again.
2007Jun 23
Impala 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 30,000 miles
I was on my way to a concert, concert traffic, on RT 1 going to Foxboro Stadium. We're dead stopped I give my buddy the keys to unlock the trunk, then when I try to turn on the car, it won't start. We pushed it a half mile and put in a parking lot. After sitting for a while it started.
2008May 24
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 42,000 miles
This is the second time this happened. I had let the car sit, I work in the city and probably drive it once a month, sometimes more. I came back from a Doctors appointment, stopped to get a burrito, and the thing wouldn't start.
I towed it to a Chevy dealership. The threw me a $3,000 bill, and told me a Unicorn, excuse me a squirrel had chewed some computer wires and they weren't sure how long that would take to fix. The also told me they had to replace the passlock thing, $500 and a bunch of other crap. I don't drive it much so I haven't had them do any work.
Thank god for this site, if I didn't see all these other complaints I would have wasted three grand fixing a car that isn't worth the time. When I have a moment I'm going directly to a Honda/Toyota dealership and getting myself a new foreign ride.
AUTOBEEF YOU RULE.
2007Jun 08
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
Well I've been dealing with this for a year now. Most of the solutions have worked, aside from actually getting it repaired. But they are now no longer helpful. But since it is electrical...we all know the warranty on that from good ole' GM.
Now.... 9 out of 10 starts the lights strobe. It sounds as if there is a mad man in my glove box (actually coming from the passenger side fuse box) desperately performing morse code. When this happens..there is no A/C.. meaning it won't even come on. Then it will come on and just blow heat. I have to pull on my lights to stop the strobe effect, but the morse code still happens. I have driven with the sound alarm, radio locked, and seat belt lock light on. It seems to resolve in anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes.
I'm from the midwest..grew up in the General Motors town. Everything was GM. I will NEVER buy another American car...and Mr. Smith.. go figure.
2008May 17
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 82,000 miles
I'm putting this in the 2002 Impala site, and also sent it to the 2005 site, since most seems to have been written about here and since I went to this 2002 description most to read about my problem. My vehicle is a 2005 Impala.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION. IT WORKS FOR US.
A Solution that Worked for Us. Pass Lock, Security Light Problem.
Here's a solution that worked for us and might for others who have had this problem.
Background: Bought a 2005 Impala in May. After about 100 miles of driving, the Security Light started coming on intermittently. Then one day my wife went to start the car and no start. I tried it and no start. I did the 10 minute wait and it started. I reported the problem on this site, but read other sites as well. I wrote to the individual who said he had a two minute fix on post #77 of 2002 complaints but he never responded. I had decided to have the lock cylinder and key replaced, but also decided to try all kinds of things first. And I found something that worked. I got into the car, put the key in, turned it to ON, but NOT to start. I let all the seat belt dinging sound stop as well as a slight electrical or mechanical sound in the column. No more sound. Then I turned the key to START. No more Security Light problem since for either of us. We have driven hundreds of miles just to see if something would happen. Stopped on the open road, drove 100 miles in one stretch, etc. THIS WORKS FOR US. So here it is in short:
1. Get in the car and shut the door.
2. Don't do anything except put the key in the lock and turn it to the ON position.
3. Let all the sounds do their thing and come to a stop. QUIET.
4. Turn the Key to START and start the engine.
It works for us and maybe it will for you.
2007May 30
(reported on)Impala LS 3.0 V6
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Car would not start when turning key in ignition. Happened to us a couple times. Once at a self-serve gas station, wife got out of car to pump and had left the keys in the ignition. wouldn't start for about 10 minutes no matter what she did... it seemed to have tripped some security delay timer. We have noticed if you leave the keys in the ignition this tends to happen more. I have not had this re-occur for about 8 months by implementing the following habits (maybe I'm just lucky)
1. Never leave the keys in the ignition
2. Always turn the key completely off before pulling out (the key can be pulled out of the slot slightly before the off position)
2008Mar 10
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 158,000 miles
Trim level should be listed as POS (piece of s@%t) not LS. Numerous problems with ABS and traction control problems we have spent over a thousand dollars on at dealerships and still not fixed. They will keep throwing parts at it as long as we keep paying and still the same problems. Adios GM
2008Feb 14
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 158,000 miles
This problem has gotten steadily worse. Along with the other problems such as traction control going off all the time and multiple abs problems I really regret purchasing this impala for Her highness.
1920Nov 07
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 123,000 miles
My 2002 Impala ignition keeps giving me problems. I have to hold the damn ignition all the way to the right for about 1-2 minutes and then it will crank .Sometimes! God forbid if I come across the path of a serial killer I'm dead even if I have a 1 minute head start. I'm better off running pass the car. could anyone out there help me. America I need you
2008May 05
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Here is my story with a happy ending.
So I am aware of the passlock system but am looking for some more precise directions. Here is the story. Nieces car- She drives it home with no problems, gets in it the next morning and the key will not turn. I go and get a key and tumblers for it which also has the pass lock 3 wire sensor on it. I get that installed and it won't crank, security light flashing 3 times then battery light, back to security and so on. I let it set for ten minutes and the security light is no longer flashing but is steady, still alternating between security and battery light. Try to start it, still no crank and the security light goes back to blinking.So I read where this ten minute thing needs to be done 3 times, try that same result. Try the reset six times, try the E-brake set while doing it, door open, locked, unlocked, battery unhooked and rehooked after a minute, reaching through the window while on my knees and praying, etc. you get the point. Got the old key to turn in the old tumbler, put it back in and went through the resets and it does the same thing. Jump a screwdriver across the starter and it cranks fine. Next step is to haul the car to my house to work on it, just not sure what I am going to do once it is at my house.
So here is what I have done. I had hauled the car to my house to work on it rather than going to where it was at every night after work. I took the locking piece out from the old key and tumbler set that keeps the cylinder in place (normally the key must be in a certain position to release the cylinder) just in case the key locked up again and would not turn I could now pull the cylinder out at any time. I run the whole reset/reprogramming thing on the old key/cylinder. It works this time and when the key will turn, it starts and there are no security lights. I take the old key and cylinder out and put the new one in. The car starts but the security light is on steady. Stick the old one back in and it still starts with no security light. There are 3 wires (black, white and yellow) going to the passlock sensor, I cut the yellow and hook one end of my OHM meter to the yellow end coming from the cylinder and pierce the black wire with the other end for the OHM meter. At this point the car will still start but has the security light on and will not give me a constant reading so I put the car in reverse (won't start in reverse) and turn the key to the start position and hold it there. The meter slowly climbs to a steady .887K of resistance. I mention the slow climb because when the car was starting it would crank longer than I would expect before starting, in fact it cranked for about the same time it would take for the reading to settle. I do not know that much about resistors, normally if I need a resistor I just go to radio shack and find the one closest to my reading. The problem that I ran into is that they did not have anything that matched what I was looking for. So I buy an assortment of resistors for $12. There are literally hundreds in this bag. I plan on experimenting with resistors in series and twisting two together and such to get the correct resistance. I learn that by twisting two together you get roughly half the advertised resistance reading (some or many probably already know that but I did not). After testing numerous resistors with the meter I find one that reads 1.7??K, I twist two of those together and get a reading of .879K, close enough to the .887K a was looking for. So I strip some of the coating off of the black wire, not breaking it's connection to the cylinder. I hook one end of the resistors to the stripped section of black and the other end to the previously cut yellow wire (end going to the BCM this time, tape off end to cylinder). I solder these connections and tape everything. I did the reset of leaving the key on for ten minutes. Now with new key and cylinder it starts immediately and there are no security lights and I don't think there ever will be on this one anymore.
All of the searching that I had done shows that the passlock system is a known problem on these cars, leaving people stranded until the 1/2 hour key reprogramming is done. This could be something that could be done to avoid that problem in the future.
I have since performed this bypass on other vehicles with the same security system.
Anyone that wants more advice to do this or lives close enough and wants me to do this can contact me by E-mail. shofner_aron_w@yahoo.com
I will gladly perform this bypass for much less than what most have already paid the dealerships.
Located in north/central Illinois. 61565
Aron S.
2007Nov 15
Impala 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Just flat out embarrassing, really. I couldn't lend the car out to anyone, didn't want to risk stopping off at a convenience store on the way home from work for fear of it not wanting to start again. The occurance is completely random, and the remedy's are completely random. It's not a matter of doing things in a certain succession or waiting a certain amount of time. Problem is a loose connection at the terminal of the Body Control Module (BCM). Either simply needs to be cleaned or the BCM and opposing terminals needs to be replaced. Replacing relays, starter, ignition switches, etcetera won't solve the problem; it'll just waste your money.
Tell your mechanic to find GM Technical Service Bulletin #040847003 for instructions on how to fix this problem. FYI: GM will charge 200-500 bucks to fix this.
2008May 16
Impala LX 3.6L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 134,000 miles
All I have to say is I am glad I am adding to this escapade. I drove my car literally out of the showroom and away I went!!! I absolutely LOVE this car and I have never had ANY problems with this car until now. Its roomy, great handling, sporty and great on gas for its size.
Lets reiterate now what everyone has said and my past experience, Check Engine light on one day off the next? No response from the ignition when you turn the key? Security Light Blinks or on one time then off the next? Dash lights blink on and off and then after the key sits in ignition for a minute all the dummy lights come on sometimes they blink Check Engine Soon, Service Traction System, Battery, Low Fuel, BUT, I have found that if all the lights come on the dash and the radio does NOT come on there really is no power to the car, as soon as that Radio comes back on you are in action!!! Or When you put the key in the ACC position you are getting a ticking noise from the passenger side fuse panel, I pulled those relays out and it didn't do anything, when car decided to start it started without the Battery Relay so no worries there its not the relay. I have taken the key out and back in several times no response from ignition. I have taken the key out of the ignition and the car would still be chiming like the key was in the ignition : ) I too have taken the battery out, unplugged computers, and the problem is intermittent!
This started happening about two weeks ago and its getting more frequent. From reading I heard there may have been hope to bypass the passlock. If you know of anyone who has had this done, PLEASE email me. I don't want to get rid of this car ITS PAID OFF FINALLY! Still love GM but not if they can't address the #1 thing wrong in the Impala category!!! Makes me look at that Foreign Competitor closer since they have almost forever warranty and I have never heard of anyone having problems that couldn't be fixed! Get off your A** GM and fix this! Count me in for a class action!
2008Mar 18
Impala LX 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
Finding this site through searches on the internet I am surprised by how many people have the same problem I did as far as the intermittent crank and waiting for 10 mins because of the passlock system failure. I want to thank all of the people for the valuable information. From all the reading I've done it looks like even the newer Impala's are having the same problem. Its a shame that Chevy is dancing around this issue and cannot fix this. I see alot of people spending alot of money and there problem is not fixed. Clearly this is a recall problem that even a blind man can see. However dealing with the same frustration that all of you had to endure I believe I have come up with a fix that worked for me. Ever since I did this fix I have not had the security light come on at all and my car has started fine now. I have not had the intermittent crank or the having to wait 10 mins to start the car. Also this fix is very easy and takes about 2 mins to do. The thing I find amazing is the fact that I am not GM certified and I fixed the problem that they should know. Now first of all Im not going to say that this fix is going to work 100% for everybody. It worked for me.
2006Apr 12
Impala LX 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
My 2002 impala never wants to start because of the passive lock system. I have been stranded lots, and I do mean lots of times. At first letting it sit for 10 to 15 min worked but now 2 years later its all night. I have disconnected the battery, I have put the key on ACC with my foot on the brake taken it out of park and slammed it back into park and the started it. That only works sometimes. What should I do?
2008May 07
Impala SL 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 83,000 miles
replaced new bcm, cooling fan and 2 new starters. Car will not star sometimes . Late for work any day . Need help, how to fix the dumb Chevrolet?
2008May 10
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
This is an erratic problem. I can't predict when it is going to happen, but it's happening more frequently. According to everything I've read, there's no real solution but I could spend hundreds of dollars looking for one. Has Chevrolet issued a recall or offered solutions?!
2008Apr 12
Impala 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 111,001 miles
Car has been in the shop where I work. No codes, replaced pcm. That didn't work. Replaced ignition switch. That didn't work. They won't work on it now, because they don't know what is wrong with it.
2008Mar 14
Impala 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 85,749 miles
Ok so I'm another added to this list of owners whose Impala's have this stupid passlock problem. In short the security light comes on and I can't turn over the engine. Waiting 20 minutes and cycling the ignition a few times starts the car but its getting more frequent.
I visited the dealership a few days ago and they said "the sensor needs to be replaced". So yeah about 300 bucks...but wait there's more to this tale.
Months back there was only one issue with this car...it didn't like to start on the first try. Never though anything of it...just tried again and away I went. After doing some research I've found people who have had starter issues that have caused this passlock issue to arise. Apparently the wiring is bad with the starters...which I would agree as the starter works...just not the way it should. Anyway I'm going to look into the issue further...I refuse to pay hundreds of dollars for an electrical problem...thats ridiculous. I agree that there should be a recall for these issues as there's definitely enough of them.
2006Aug 29
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
My car would start only when it wanted to....sometimes without a glitch, then out of nowhere, I was stranded! There was no pattern, just random!! I tried everything my manual told me to try, including some extra stuff (holding my breath, finger in ear, foot on the ground-other one sticking out the window) you get the idea...nothing worked! Finally, I took it to someone who knew what they were doing (at the dealership), after taking it to someone who did not know what they were doing, and after he replaced the ignition and gave me the new keys(that was the most expensive part $95) I was home free!! Never happened again!! The other work did not cost but $50..I had a warranty!
2008Apr 20
Impala LS 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 81,000 miles
I took my car to Goodyear only to have my radio fuse unplugged and I was told that I have to take it to the dealership because they were the only ones who can fix it. Goodyear kept saying that I need to get another control module. This is crazy, Chevy needs to consider this a recall because this is too many complaints of the same problem!!
2006Dec 21
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
What is up with the security light on this car? I have had the passlock sensor replaced 2 times already once under and extended warranty and the second time out of pocket, now 5 moths later after I had it fixed its broke down again due to the passlock sensor, sad part is my mechanic is going back and forth with Chevy to get the part replaced under warranty because its only been 5 months and Chevy wont do anything about it considering this is the 3rd repair in less then 3 years, If so many Chevy owners are having this problem why hasn't a class action suite been filed against Chevy, I mean come on its 400-600.00 a pop everytime it has to be replaced and its just not fair!!!!!
2007Nov 09
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,000 miles
I purchased my Impala new and never had any issues until about 2005. We were driving home from a trip and the check engine light came on and stayed on for about 400 miles. We had to have it reset by the local auto store even though there were no error codes.
Then about a year later I drove about 10 miles to the bank, got out, went in, came back out within 5 minutes and my car would not start. I never noticed any lights coming on such as the security light. I called my husband and by the time he got there, it started. It has only done it 4 times since, usually at inconvenient times or locations such as at the gas station, at work at night on a very cold winter night, and twice in the garage when I needed to run errands.
I just noticed last year that the security light would come on and then go off. Sometimes it would stay on for a long time. I also noticed my Onstar lights started acting weird. One day the light on the right would be green, the next day it would be red. I would call Onstar to have them run a diagnostic check and they would always tell me that I had a bad connection in my Onstar antenna. I never had that checked out since I didn't plan to keep the Onstar much longer.
We have never spent any money to try to fix it. The dealer says they have never heard of it so why bother giving them money for nothing. They did say that it could be the chip in the key. I have tried both keys and that didn't seem to help.
We have found that if we wait 10 minutes, it usually starts right up. However, the most recent time (which happened to be on that cold winter night) I tried to start it when leaving work and it didn't start. I let it sit for 10 minutes and it didn't start. Then my husband suggested I take the key out and wait 10 more minutes. It didn't start that time either so he suggested that I put it in neutral and it started right up without waiting another 10 minutes. It has not happened since! We dropped our Onstar subscription in December. I wonder if that is somehow related? Or it could be that it is about to happen any day now.
We just purchased a new car in November. Guess what? It is not GM!! We purchased our first foreign car--a Nissan! There was no way we could bring ourselves to purchase another GM and we had decided a long time ago that we were finished with Ford after owning several with all kinds of problems.
2007Mar 01
Impala
- Automatic transmission
- 58,000 miles
Can't believe so many have complained about this issue and Chevy doesn't care one bit. This is a manufacture defect and there sould be a recall! Hope this turns into a class action suit against them! They just don't care about the customer anymore and this will be the very last GM product my family will EVER buy!
2007Jun 14
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
I've been putting up with this for almost a year. The initial time it happened, I was stumped. Came in the house, got online and did a search for "starting issues with 2002 Chevy impalas". This site was a top hit, I checked it out and was very surprised at how many other people are putting up with this.
At time it does not start. I have to do the emergency brake routine. Sometimes the security light stays on sometimes not. Service engine light is on, sometimes not. Sometimes the security light stays on for the duration, sometimes not. Today I noticed that my security light is on and there is a "tick" noise coming from the passenger fuse box. Head lights blink in sync with the tick noise. Tick noise stops when I pull on my headlights. Now the A/C system likes to tick when I use it when the security light is on. If the security light is off, the the A/C works just fine.
I come from a GM family. Many relatives and friends have worked, still work or have retired from GM. I did my part to support the auto industry since is was falling so far behind in the competition by purchasing this car brand new. Sad to say, my next car will not be American. Sorry GM...the quality of the foreign cars is superior to our lack luster domestic models.
2008Apr 06
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
My wife has had this car since it was new . It started doing it about 3 months after we got it. It has been in the shop a number of times, and every time they either say they can't find the problem or they replace the BCM its ok for a while then it starts again.My wife has been driving my 99 Silverado . Shes afraid her car won't start
2008Mar 07
Impala LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,290 miles
The problem was due to the Internal failure in passlock sensor...which was replaced....well low and behold it happened again! The dealership wants to charge me $400 to fix the problem. I called 800-222-1020 and was told by the person answering the phone that I could have an email address to voice my complaint!!! He suggested that I take down an address and write a letter, which I plan on doing!! The dealership tried to tell me that this happens more frequently than not and blamed the problem on a key issue since the system had to be reprogrammed all at my expense of in excess of $400.00....UNACCEPTABLE....for the price I paid for the vehicle!!!
2008Mar 27
Impala ?? ??
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
This is very frustrating when you are trying to keep to a schedule!! I seem to have nothing but electrical problems with my impala. the security light, high beams, check engine light, and low fluid light when nothing is wrong!
2008Mar 19
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 45,981 miles
I've had the same problem as everyone else here. I went to start the car and nothing, even though the lights and dash and everything seemed bright. It first started about 6 months ago where the same thing happened. I took it to an electrical repair shop at that time and they couldn't find anything wrong at all, so I just left it. About 3 months ago the check engine light came on and stayed on for 2 or 3 days and never came back on again. In the last few weeks the security light would stay on continuously sometimes when I'd use the car, but not every time. Tonight was the second time it failed to start.
I bought the car new and I really like it and the way it handles and everything but I've been thinking of trading it in because I don't have too much confidence in its long term reliability. This problem now is really gonna speed up the process of trading it in and I can tell you, it certainly won't be another Chev.
Has anyone heard of a good cheap way of bypassing the passlock sensor or any word on GM doing a recall for this obviously common problem?
2005Jun 15
Impala 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 101,468 miles
I am never buying another Chevy as long as i live this car has been a lemon from the get go had computers replaced twice and the ignition cylinder replaced three times re programed many times and it is still happening I have to get up for work at 4:30 am just so I have enough time to reprogram the car if it does not start never know when it will happen and I have a 2 year old with me most of the time to reprogram the car i have to turn the key to the on position for 10 min turn off turn on for ten min again and turn off and turn on for ten min again and than turn off and start so in total it takes me 30 min to reprogram the car before I can go anywhere and when I looked at things like the lemonade and Canadian driver not once was this problem reported I am so pissed off and I cant afford to have it fixed any more I am still paying for this piece of crap and I calld up GM (GENERAL MISTAKE) and they said not our problem you deal with it so I will never buy a gm car again I AM GOING TO BUY A RELIABLE CAR LIKE TOYOTA OR HONDA
2008Mar 10
Impala 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 68,000 miles
Had body control module replaced by GM dealer, $470, - no help. They said then would try (?) replacing ignition and Passlock module - $700 - 900 estimate! GM customer service no help, so I'm not even trying to deal with them anymore. I like the car for several reasons; size, driveability, relative comfort, and especially gasoline economy. BUT, this problem trumps them all. I am very interested in potential by-pass surgery which two or three have expressed on this site. Someone please give me the details someone.
Have also had steering gear problems twice and major problem with intake manifold gaskets leaking coolant. Over $1000 for repairs of these.
2008Jan 07
Impala 4dr Sedan 3.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
This gets to be so annoying. You go out to start your car and nothing happens. We put a new starter on b/c this is what the auto parts store said and that didn't work, now they telll us it needs an ignition control modulator----why pay all this money, evidently it is an ongoing issue with ALL of the impalas that GMC needs to fix. I am tired of coming out of pocket to fix this issue. HELP!!!!
2007Jun 01
Impala LS 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
I have a complaint on this already about the car not starting because of the Passlock problem. But, in the meantime I got the BCM replaced. It fixed the problem for 2 months and then I started to have the same problems again. I AM FED-UP WITH THIS. I say we all keep filing complaints with Chevy.
You can call them at 800-222-1020 or file a complaint online at
http://www.chevrolet.com/contactus/getinformation/
Or write them at
Chevrolet
P.O. Box 33170
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
I'm ready to keep contacting them everyday if I need to until they do something about this.
2008Mar 03
Impala 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 116,000 miles
ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS THAT IT SUCKS AND AFTER READING ALL THIS COMPLAINTS AND THAT CHEVY IS NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT IT I WOULD DEFINITELY NOT BUY ANOTHER ONE FROM THEM OR A GMC.....
2008Feb 09
Impala LS
- Automatic transmission
- 44,000 miles
Exact same problem as everyone else. Security light on, sometimes interior lights will stay on while driving, keyless entry doesn't work, power locks and truck wont work, occasionally car will not start, etc. The car not starting has happened several times. Usually I can unplug the positive battery cable and then wait a few min. and it will start. Other times I will have to wait several min., leave the driver side door open and it will start. Good news is that the car will start....eventually. Bad news is that NO ONE knows how to fix it. I am looking for information on how to bypass the passlock system. I have heard this will fix the problem. I have an after market Pioneer stereo with an iPod adapter installed so my OnStar is already disabled. Anyone with information can email me at jenniepace@hotmail.com. THANK YOU!!!!
2008Feb 04
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
Same problem as all the rest. Now I don't feel so bad. A family member just bought
this car for me. It's pretty, drove well from the lot. After reading all the post (every
one) I feel chumped. I'm trying to figure out - how I can give it back since it's
a couple weeks old. Maybe the dealer will take it back. That's what GM is afraid.
I noticed a problem with the key and ignition and/or icylinder. I had know ideal it was on this level of complaint. And like the rest of the post here, I'm having the same problems w/ the flashing of the security lights - additionally, I it also rest the time as if
you unpluged the battery. Starting to show starting issues. For now, the option seems to be, put the key in, let the system recognize the key (for a few seconds), while the door is open, and start the car. I'm not sure how long that will last - but I getting pretty damn tired of it already. I noticed problems when closed the door and try to start
immediately.
Additionally, I have already given notice to family not to drive it. That hurt, especially when you have a teen looking pretty hard at driving something. Oh well, this won't be
that car.
No one likes the media, and GM already has problems. But if you won't this problem
to get any notice - then the media is your only option w/ class action lawsuit of course. "60 Minutes" perhaps, maybe on a couple morning shows. The Net is a
great information source, but you need the media to get the correct attention it
deserve. Additionally, someone will need to have dangerous, adverse consequences
happen before it becomes a class action lawsuit. Until then GM can pretend it doesn't
exist until the cows come home.
This is an automatic recall; but GM has told you what you can do w/ it. Deal with
it, or get rid of it. But we're not going to recall it.
It reminds me of the problem with "FORD" design problem with the "ignition
control module" mounted on the distributor on all models from 88-92. The module
would cook/burn-up after lengthy travel and you would come to a stop. It sound like
a fuel pump problem, and/or flooding problem but it wasn't. It was a 29.95 module.
2008Jan 30
Impala LS 3.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 111,346 miles
My problem is not unlike everyone else's who owns an impala or malibu. Its the worst car i have ever owned. My car used to do the problem where all the lights would flash in
information box, like the battery, the security, everything accompanied by the radio
locking and the AC blowing hot. I seem to have gotten that problem fixed, my
electrical mechanic said he found a wire backed out of the computer and touching
the back of the computer causing it to short out. Although I am still having the passlock
problem. The same symptoms happen, the security light will flash, and within a few days
the car wont start. I have replaced the ignition, ignition switch, body control module, and
the wiring harness to the bcm. Nothing works, every time I leave the mechanic they
say, thats going to fix it, and I always return within 3 days. The next thing i am going
to try to bypass the passlock sensor, I just don't know how. If anyone has done this
and can explain how, please let me know. I told my mechanic that this can be done
and he said find out how and he will do it. I will never own another GM product again
in my life, I dont care how long their new warranty goes, its not worth it because they
wont stand behind their product.
2007May 21
(reported on)Impala LE 3.4
- Automatic transmission
- 64,000 miles
Problem started happening more and more. Finally got ignition replaced. Two weeks later, another computer went down. Contacted GM for help, guidance, advice. Never received an answer. After two costly repairs and no communication from GM, I came up with a great solution. Final solution was to get rid of GM car and buy a Toyota. My mechanic said this problem is only found in Impalas and Malibus. Should be a recall, but buying American, GM would never admit it.
2007Aug 02
Impala 3.2L
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
If you are in labor,about to have a baby, you'll just LOVE to get rushing to the hospital on a 100 degree day, only to have your car not start!!!
2007Aug 15
Impala LT 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 50,000 miles
dealer guesses at the fix, replace battery, replace starter, let us replace bcm, replace ignition switch, they guess. If I did this in my job I would be fired. this is bs.
2002Dec 17
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 45,000 miles
As much as I would like to gripe, rant and yell at Chevrolet and GM, I'd rather help you guys with my advice. The passlock problem arises from the fact that the ignition system does not recognize your key by the time you first turn the ignition switch after inserting the key into it. You have probably noticed that after inserting the key, with the door open you hear the "ding, ding, ding, ding,..." sound, alerting you that door is open. This may often come as a very faint "ding, ding, ding,...." increasing in volume as seconds go by. At times, there is NO "ding, ding, ding..." DO NOT TURN THE KEY. This is a sure sign the car will not start if you turn the key. Instead, remove the key, and re-insert it until you hear the loud ding, ding, ding, ding, (annoying as it is) with the door open. I have made it a habit to insert, remove, insert, remove, insert, before turning the key.
Rule here is to give the system time to recognize your key; if you are in a hurry, follow this procedure, so you don't miss the important meeting, date or pick-up.
And, yes...next time...shy away from Chevrolet!!!
2004Oct 01
Impala LX 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
Same as many of you who wrote in here my 2002 /3.8L Impala has been giving me problems since 2004. Spending money at many mechanic shops including the dealership gave no result until today. Every time something is done about it like changing the battery, replacing the ignition switch, wait the 10 min or the 30 min or keep the driver door open worked for short period of time, but never solved the problem permanently.
GM wouldn't admit there terrible engineering, everybody should call GM and let them know about this problem and ask them to start a recall as soon as possible. If anybody was able to find a solution for this problem please let me know. Thank you in advance.
2006Mar 08
Impala LS 3.8L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
This car was not really giving me problems just a few minor things. It is well taken care of; however, this problem has been annoying me for quite some time now. My car always starts out on the second or third try. Starting is a difficult process for a car and it wears out the parts the most. I feel that it is dealer's problem since so many people are having problems. There should have been a recall a long time ago!!!!
2007Aug 01
(reported on)Impala LS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
HOW DO YOU REPROGRAM SECURITY SYSTEM? What is causing these problems. Security system seems to prevent car from starting. Stranded again. Car towed home again. Security and other lights come on, radio does not, Disp. hold in time will come on and then go out, items do not come on to scroll. Previously, removed fuse for door locks (use door locks manually) trunk lock hasn't worked in months. IT APPEARS TO BE THE COMPUTER SYSTEM-PASSWORD-SECURITY SYSTEM. I Called in a complaint to NHTSA (NATIONAL ___TRAFFIC & SAFETY). They have live people to take complaint over the phones for investigation to possibly recall. call 888 327 4236.
2007Nov 24
Impala 3.4L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 110,000 miles
Same problems as most of the others. Radio won't work and displays LOCKED, anti-theft red LED remains lit, SECURITY warning in message center, and airbag/seatbelt icon stays on. Day running lamps will not come on and occasionally power lock switches will not function. My car will usually at least start in this mode, but then fail the next time. All problems have been during start up; thankfully it's never died on me while running. All other driving functions and gauges work properly even in this lockout mode.
Replaced ignition cylinder and housing (which contains the PassLock sensor), but the problem persists. The 3 cycle (30-minute) reprogramming procedure has worked for me every time (5 times over 2 months) - allowing the car to start, even if it doesn't always clear the error (warning lights and such). BCM connections look OK. I plan on trying a new ignition switch and if that doesn't work will bypass the PassLock system as others have suggested.
Since it's not explained in great detail, I thought I'd write out the reprogramming procedure. This is actually to program a PassLock sensor to accept a new key, but can be used to "reprogram" it to your existing key:
1) Turn key to START and leave it in the ON position. Car will not start, and the SECURITY warning will display in the message center.
2) After 10 minutes, the SECURITY warning will disappear. Turn the key to OFF and wait approximately 10 seconds.
3) Repeat steps 1 and 2 a total of three times.
4) The car should start on your fourth attempt.
2007Aug 28
(reported on)Impala Limited V^
- Automatic transmission
- 170,000 miles
Security light went on for no reason but then went out. Within 2 weeks car wouldn't start. Had it towed 3 times. Replaced battery ($200), cleaned keys with eraser, threw a key out. Replaced computer system ($800.). Still have problem. Try not to change keys. Security light going on is an indicator it will happen. When it does, let car sit for 15-20 minutes with key in ignition. Don't spend money to fix, or have towed, it will start eventually.
2006Dec 29
Impala LX 3.4L
- Automatic transmission
- 67,108 miles
Anyone with the passlock problem can be fixed for about $5 and a little bit of time and know how. Bypass the passlock sensor and you will have no more trouble with it. I bypassed mine, and have no problem since. If you would like info, send me a message and I will help you fix if you are interested. (if you do not know anything about electrical, I will be unable to help as this involves electrical modification.)
2007Nov 09
Impala LS 3.8L
- Automatic transmission
- 119,000 miles
Same problem as everyone else. The problem has gotten worse though. Before, I could just wait in the car for about 10 minutes and it would start, but now it will not start and my battery will get drained down if I don't disconnect the battery. I have seen the head lights would not turn off, the dome light would not shut off. The radio would not work, the locks would click, the tru
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2008Dec 22
Impala 3.2L V6
click to see larger images
Complaint Photos
I bought my Chevy Impala 2002 in November 07' The car it self has been really nice, I have put about 20,000 miles on her in the past year. After fighting with the place I bought her from about a few problems. I decided to just let things ride! Then this NO START problem happen.I noticed that the security light would be flashing when it would happen. I replaced a few different things: starter, moduel,and went to replace the ign.switch and decided to wait. This no start problem started in March and it's December and I am still having the same problem its random.This will happen a few times in a week and then not do it for a couple weeks. Strangest thing ever and a real pain in the azz!! I didn't know that alot of people were having this problem now I do and Yes I feel that Chevy should do a recall!! This not a fluke thing we are all going through the same kinda problem here!!
jiggetts
Greatmills, MD, USA
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