I just bought an 89 firebird with a 2.8. It didn't come with keys so I had to go to the Pontiac dealer to have them made. The problem is that when I got home that day the keys worked in the doors but not the ignition. The car turned out to have the Vats system and the dealer said it didn't. I went back a second time to try and get the right keys but Pontiac didn't have any records of the car having Vats. The dealer now says It is going to cost me between $200-$300 to test the car and tell me which key I need. I was wondering if there is an easier way out. I don't have nor do I want to pay that much money just for them to tell me what key I need. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

 

Have somebody burn you a new chip with the VATS disabled. Then you can use a plain old $.99 key in it.

 

Where do I find someone who burns chips?

 

after how many years/miles of use does the VATS sensor go stupid ? my 89 GTA had 126K when i bought it, and for a 3 month period it wouldn't read my key 1/2 the time. then it crashed and doesn't go anywhere ... for now !

actually here's a better question - would i be risking much by disabling VATS and just getting a VIPER alarm system with ignition cutoff plus putting in a hidden switch for fuel pump cutoff? i could install a pressure switch like right under my seat so i'd have double protection in case someone bypassed the VIPER alarm?