General Information

The Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) system functions are provided by the theft deterrent controller (VTD) module. The VTD system prevents vehicle operation if a valid (learned) transponder PASS-KEYIII(R) (PK3) ignition key is not used to start the vehicle. Vehicles with steering column mounted ignition switches have the exciter integral with the theft deterrent controller (VTD) module which is located within the steering column. Vehicles with instrument panel mounted ignition switches have exciter modules separate from the VTD module with the vehicle wiring harness connecting the two. The PK3 key has a transponder embedded in the plastic head of the key. The exciter is an antenna which is made up of wire coils which surround the ignition lock cylinder. The PCM enables engine starting when it receives a valid (learned) password from the VTD module via the class 2 serial data circuit. The components of the VTD system are as follows:
^ The theft deterrent controller (VTD) module
^ The Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
^ The ignition key (transponder)
^ The ignition lock cylinder
^ The security indicator