Code 46: Vehicle Anti-Theft System
The Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) is designed to disable vehicle operation if the incorrect key or starting procedure is used. The anti-theft decoder module sends a signal to the ECM if the correct key is being used. If the proper signal does not reach the ECM on circuit No. 229, the ECM will not pulse the injectors and thus not allow the vehicle to be started. Code 46 will set.
NOTE:
Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
- If the engine cranks and a Code 46 is stored, it indicates that the portion of the module which generates the signal to the ECM is not operating or circuit No. 229 is open or shorted to ground. If the VATS decoder module is found to be okay, the ECM may be at fault, but this is not a likely condition.
- If Code 46 is stored and the engine will not start, it indicates that there is an anti-theft system problem or an incorrect key or starting procedure is being used.
NOTE:
The fuse for the VATS is the ECM/IGN fuse. If condition is intermittent, see INTERMITTENTS in TROUBLE SHOOTING in the CEC THEORY & OPERATION article in this section.