Passkey issue

[76chevymutt]

I just got a 1996 3.8 firebird. No keys. Wondering if I can just get a new lock cylinder or if something has to be reprogrammed. Srry if a repeat question. Thanks.


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[Spartan7]

GM will cut you new keys at the dealer with the VIN and proof of ownership.

[76chevymutt]

No title as of yet. It's a rust free car. Wanted to see if it ran before putting money into getting a title or key made


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[Spartan7]

Well in that case, you're in a bit of a pickle. You can replace the ignition cylinder, but with no old key, you can't know what the pellet value is. Your only option really is to buy a pack of different value resistors and string them together to try each value range one at a time until it bypasses VATS, then use the new key and cylinder to start it up. Hell, if you strip the column down, at that point you don't even need the cylinder really. Just turn the sector gear drive with some pliers.

Just curious, why doesn't the previous owner have keys? Lost title?

[76chevymutt]

It was bought at an estate sale. The person died. Not sure why or anything


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[76chevymutt]

I have a lock cylinder and key from a Buick road master. Also the bcm. Would I be able to switch them out?


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[GaryDoug]

Edit: Oooops, I did not see the part about you having the other BCM. That might work if the BCM functions/options are the same. The key fobs would need relearning.

Original post:
Yes, but if you don't do the VATS bypass method, you would have to buy a new blank key to match the BCM value (maybe 10 bucks). In any case, to find the VATS resistor value, unplug the wires going to the lock cylinder and connect each of the 15 resistors in a kit to the wires going to the BCM. Wait at last 3 minutes between each new resistor is checked to turn off the Security lamp. Worst case takes 45 minutes total time. Once you find the correct resistor value, you can order a blank to match and plug back back the wires.

By the way, with the replacment cylinder used key, you have a 1 in 15 chance it is already the correct value.