You can install a Passlock disabler inline with the yellow/orange sensor
wire (ignition switch), and that will disable the theft system completely.
They only cost about $30, which is much cheaper than a new ignition switch,
and replacing that will only prolong the problem for so long anyway. You
may still see the theft light come on from time to time, but the system
should be disabled, when the Passlock disabler is wired correctly. I kow
that this works well, because the 2001 Monte Carlo I am currently driving is
wired up the same way. When I stop to pick up a passenger on my way to work
in the morning, I shut the car off but don't remove the key. When I restart
the car, the symbol for the Theft System usually displays in the DIC (driver
info center), and will stay on for the whole trip. Its a bit annoying, but
the Passlock has not stopped the car from starting since I bought it two
years ago, because of the disabler.

Until this is fixed, whatever you do, while that light is flashing, DO NOT
try to start the vehicle, as you'll only shorten the life of the starter.
We had a chevrolet company van that had the same problem, and when the light
started flashing, one of the workers had no idea what the light meant and
kept trying to start the van, until he eventually overheated and burned the
brushes out of the starter motor.

Good luck
Sharky

Thanks for the reply, the doors locks work fine.

I should have said it turns over but does not fire. Sometimes it
starts as soon as the starter spins. Sometimes not, and that is when
the 10 min reset, (by stop watch) is used and it starts every time.
There seems to be a lot of problems with the passlock system on GM
products. Not just Malibu. Of course, GM now = GOVERNMENT motors, they
are on death watch.

The funny thing is the GM dealer acts like they have never heard of
this issue. Lying bastards! This is a well known problem! Someone
emailed me the instructions to bypass passlock with a resistor. When I
have time, I'll do that.
Google: "passlock disable" or similar.

Thanks.

"Sharky" <cl_8ball (AT) hotmail (DOT) com> wrote

Yeah, that's pretty much true with any starter motor. They are designed to
have a lot of torque for a very short period. You keep cranking on them and
you will cook them.