Why does my security light come on then my car don't start, but then starts 15 or 20 minutes later?

Question

I have a 2004 Chevy Impala. Some times the security light comes on and then a day or so later it won't start, but after you keep trying for 15 or 20 minutes it will start. What could be causing this problem, some on told me it could be my ignition, since I don't have the orginial keys to it(which it didn't come with since i bought it used).

Answer 1

Yah, it's looking for the original chip in the key. Go to the dealership and have the ignition and key problem fixed.

Answer 2

The security, antitheft or lock picture/icon is a visual indication that something in the car's antitheft system is failing. In most GM cars and trucks there is a hidden system that most people are unaware even exists. From the moment you put your key in the ignition, there begins a constant line of communication between your key's security chip or transponder, to the ignition's lock cylinder, and then to the car's TDM (Theft Deterrent Module). These 3 parts are in CONSTANT communication. If the key is in the ignition, then these parts are sending signals to each other. The security light illuminates when that signal gets broken, even just for a second. When the signal breaks, the car misinterprets this as an attempt at theft and goes into antitheft mode. The car thinks its being stolen or hotwired because it is not getting that signal from YOUR specific key. This is why the security light turns on and shuts down your vehicle. This link explains it pretty well.

http://www.diy-gm-security.com/

Answer 3

Your car is equipped with a passive immobilizer(incidentally, that should give you a discount on your insurance; depending on where you live). The systam that is in place on newer General Motors Products is known as Passlock III. It's based on a variable rate resistor built into the head of the key; on the dark grey plastic part. While it's true that you generally need to have a dealership program a SECOND key, I'm not sure if the third key will program in the same manner as a FORD key. Check with Google... Try typing in... "programming GM Ignition keys".... hope this helps

Answer 4

If the security light comes on it means the system detects an intruder and disables the the starter or ignition so the car will not start.
It could be do to a damaged key or the security control module is failing.

Answer 5

I have had lots of trouble since the 1980s with car batteries becoming intermittent, apparently due to broken internal connections at the positive post. It is probably a hot climate thing, though, because since moving from Phoenix to Flagstaff I have rarely seen it. Under long-term overcharging the positive plate of lead-calcium batteries (like car batteries) oxidizes and grows in length and width, and I suspect that is the cause. When the battery is bad that way, whacking the positive post moderately hard with a hammer a few times often jams the connection back together and the battery works as though nothing was ever wrong.

Answer 6

A lot of different lights can come on when you are trying to start your car. It may well be true that it the problem with the key, however, it could just be a simple old fashioned problem like loose or dirty battery cables, starter going bad, alternator going bad, or generator going bad. It would hurt to get the starting system checked.

Answer 7

Ok i no u might hate this but you are going to have to go to a Chevy dealer and get another key made, i had the same problem with my camaro and it should run you about 70 bucks to get a key made, good luck.

Answer 8

it could be the ignition or starter or alternator or even the battery terminals.

this happened to me and nobody, even the mechanic, knew what was wrong. but you should have triple a (if you have it) look at it or get it towed to a garage. it could be something simple like the lights were on and you didnt noticed.

Answer 9

Have seen this before on a Malibu. I think you are gonna find that the boby control module is bad. you will need to take it to dealer because it will need to be programed when it is replaced. good luck

Answer 10

if your original key had a security chip in it.. maybe the keys you have now are getting defective

go to dealership and found out if you can get new keys