I was under the impression that F-Bodies got VATS in 88, after they were the #1 stolen car in 87. But I just realized (after owning the car for 5 months) that my 88 Camaro does not have VATS. was it only on the higher end models ( Formula, GTA, Iroc etc...) then all models in 89?
Just curious.
Thanks

 

I always thought it was an optional thing?

 

88+ w/vats option

 

My understanding is that some 88's got VATS, but most didn't. I have heard from others that 88 GTA's had it, but I know of one 88 GTA that did not come with it. However that car was an early 88 model, so it's entirely possible that later production 88 GTA's had it. All 89 up thirdgens have it.

 

in 1988 UA6 "System, Theft Deterrent" was equiped from the factory on 6,440 GTAs, there were 9,765 GTAs made. so it was optional, just a common option. in 1989 all were equiped ( i assume that continues through 1992)

 

VATS was not a "common option" on '88 GTAs. After the start of the model run it was a "standard (required) $75.00 option" on the window sticker. My black car was built in January '88 and it is listed on the sticker.

The PMD news release for the '88 Firebird line dated 9-4-1987 lists the "Pass-Key" system as standard on the GTA but there was obviously some lagging on the implementation of the system during production. As mentioned, some early 1988 models do not have it.

The system was expanded to the entire F-Body line for 1989 and later.

 

I remember when the ign lock cylinder for my 91 Firebird went bad, I went to the local GM dealer to order the cylinderand they tried to tell me someone must have put the VATS lock cylinder in for looks because "Your car did not come with VATS!" Needless to say, I went to another dealer and two days later, I had the replacement lock cylinder.

 

i remebmer that story! that was about 9 months ago right? i have re-told that to a few people in my car club. funny stuff.

 

I have learned that the people at GM dealer parts dept sometimes get their info from rumors and myths. I had a guy one time say a part was no longer available and he would not look in the computer because he KNEW they were not available, ten minutes later I had one ordered at a dealer down the road.