Thread: Dreaded SECURITY Light Flashing...Car Not Running Problem

Well, looks like the ignition is on its way out in my Blue Turbo Prix. From what I gather, it's a common problem in these cars. The car cranks and runs for about 3 seconds, then dies. Security light flashing the entire time. I tried the security re-learn, it didn't work. I kinda half-assed it though so maybe I will try again.

Question is this: Where do I start? Do I replace the Ignition Switch? and/or the Tumbler? The "Ignition Switch" when Google'd, brings up what is basically the Ignition Harness. Is there anything else that I'm missing that needs to be replaced?

The tumbler has all kinds of issues. It doesn't release the key 50% of the time, and you can pull the key out while driving. It has zero effect on the car, but clearly shouldn't be happening. One time, cruising down the highway with the kids, I pulled the key out...and they were freaking out!! LOL. Blew their minds! Haha.

Or, does anyone know of a different way to quickly bypass the system?

Also... There are places that rebuild tumblers. Which would allow me to keep the same 1 key, instead of needing 2 keys now (doors/ignition).

Thoughts on all this?

Have you swapped your fuel pump resistor? I had the same thing happened to me and it ended up being that.

the key lock tumbler only turns a gear that turns a knob inside the ignition harness. the not turning back to lock is another part next tot he tumbler. or a busted wire in the console to the shiftier.

id start with a new ignition harness, if you got heater fan issues, parking light issues, or any other funky crap going on, start there for sure. its a pretty easy swap. take ya 30 minutes tops.

Sparky's Answers - 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, Changing The Ignition Switch

I'm not experiencing any other issues where things are acting strangely. Except for an ongoing and possibly related issues where my voltage drops like a rock when coming to a stop. I will create a separate thread on that.

I did a relearn process following the instructions in this link below and it worked! Probably only temporary. Looks like an ignition switch replacement is in my future.

Link: 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix Chip Key Transponder Programming Instructions