Hi. My name is Kimber and I came across this site while doing a search. It seemed pretty cool and I thought maybe one of you could help me with this problem I am having.

Today I replaced my started because it was cracked and my car will still not turn over. We hooked up the diagnostic computer and got a code 46 which means Fault at vehicle anti-theft sytem OR Fault at power steering switch. Ok so, I have no clue where to look next. Does this mean I now have a ignition issue or possibly steering column? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

 

is it cranking and not turning over. or is the starter just not functioning at all?

 

Well if I turn the key i have complete silence. I can hear maybe one click if standing outside the car and have someone turn it over. I also hear the fuel pump kick in in the back.

A few weeks ago I had the prob where it would start and I would run to the store and then I would come out a half hour later and it would do absolutely nothing. Then I would run in to find someone to get me a jump and either it would start on its own or as soon as I hooked up the cable to another car it would turn over.

I started thinking ignition but took the starter out to get tested and it was bad/cracked.

 

if it has a security code in it you may have to wait with the switch on for a few minutes until it clears itself and then it will start. I had a hard time years ago with my 92 when the battery started going away and it would do the same thing. I'd let it sit with the switch on to let VATS clear and it would start just fine.

 

Do you mean like turn the key like I am going to start it and just leave it there for like 10 minutes?

 

I never got into those computer codes. I always cut out the ECM and go carbed. But it sounds to me like you're not getting enough juice. Maybe a loose connection or a bad starter solenoid. battery could be starting to go.

 

If it continues to malfunction, you may have a VATS problem. The VATS wires in the column often break over time. Perform the VATS bypass, which is in the articles on the main page of the site, and you'll be fine. Good luck.

 

Like they said, it's probably the VATS acting up. It does that every few years or so. I think after about 3 tries the system will shut itself down permanently until it's cleared at the dealership. OR your ignition switch is just bad. Either way, you may have to get it towed to the dealer. And I recommend keeping the VATS. I know a guy with a '91 RS that was broken into 3 times and the only reason he still owns it is because of the VATS system.

 

Thank you so much for all your help!

 

Welcome to the boards, you have found the best third gen camaro/firebird site on the net.

if it is the lock cylinder causing the problem, there is no need to take it to a dealer, most any competent auto repair shop can replace the lock cylinder. you can even do it yourself if you have some mechanical ability, the right tools, & some patience.

if you do have the cylinder replaced, be certain to use a A/C Delco lock cylinder, the aftermarket cylinders are junk & are not much cheaper then a factory part.
you will need a new key cut for the new lock cylinder. you will need to take the key that comes with the new cylinder & your old key with you to match the new key to. i also recommend to use a A/C delco key, i have had too many problems out of the aftermarket keys. when you know the new key works right, go get a second one made for a spare.

VATS Diagnosis and Bypass, https://www.thirdgen.org/vats

many on this site have done it themself's, so a search for something like "replacing VATS lock cylinder" should turn up whats involved.

 

if the VATS module has coded you usually only have to leave it sit for around 5 minutes to allow it to clear itself. Leave the key on and the security light will generally go out on it's own if I remember right. It's been a few years since I had the problem.