Trans am security light
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 11,328
Likes: 345
From: Jacksonville, FL (originally from Toronto Canada)
You may not need to replace the ignition cylinder... merely cleaning it might do the trick. The security light is part of VATS (Vehicle Anti Theft System) which checks the resistance on that black pellet in your key to ensure the proper key is being used. Sometimes, especially on older cars like these, the build up of grime will cause the reading to be off. Use a pencil eraser and some rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts on the pellet in your key then use some spray electronics cleaner (Radio Shack) and a pipe cleaner to clean the contacts inside the ignition cylinder.
11 Second Club
Joined: Dec 2016
Posts: 665
Likes: 5
I replaced my key, I had the same issue and bought a new key and that worked for me, I also cleaned the tumbler in the steering wheel with contact cleaner. There is info on the interwebs on Vats keys and measuring resistance to order the correct key. PM me if you need help.
