What happens when your VAT system goes out on a car?

Question:I have a 95 Camaro, and it just didnt turn the motor over one day when i tried to start it. Everything comes on, the blower motor, radio, turn signals...just no starter action. I pulled the starter, tested it, and it works. But the key has a chip in it, and the radio has been stolen a few times, so im wondering if they shorted something out when they took a crowbar to the dash and ripped the wires out.

Answers:
You may need a new ignition lock. First, test the key to make sure it is not open. If it is open, replace it. If not, use a VATS interrogator and hook it up to the cable coming from the ignition lock. This cable is black or orange (probably orange on this car) and runs down the inside of the column. Insert the key in the lock and the tester should give you a numeric value. With the key in the lock, turn the key and wiggle the wires while watching the display on the tester. If the display holds, your problem is downstream of the ignition lock connector. If the display doesn't display a numeric value, is erratic, or displays 'E' or 'ERROR,' you probably need a new ignition lock. This is a common problem especially on older cars. Hope this helps.

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What happens when your VAT system goes out on a car?

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