The Passlock 2 system is a vehicle anti-theft system found in many General Motors vehicles, including the 2012 Chevrolet Colorado. While designed to deter theft, it can sometimes malfunction, leaving drivers stranded with a vehicle that won’t start. If you’re experiencing Passlock issues with your 2012 Colorado and are looking for a temporary fix, bypassing the system might be an option. This guide provides a DIY method to bypass the Passlock 2 system using a resistor, along with important considerations regarding your vehicle’s OBD2 system and diagnostics.
Understanding the Passlock 2 System in Your 2012 Colorado
Passlock 2 works by monitoring the ignition key cylinder. When you insert your key and turn it, the system expects to see a specific resistance value. If the system doesn’t recognize this value, it assumes there’s a theft attempt and disables the fuel system, preventing the engine from starting. This can be triggered by a faulty sensor, wiring issues, or even a worn ignition cylinder.
For owners of a 2012 Colorado, encountering a Passlock issue can be frustrating. While it’s not directly related to the OBD2 plugs or diagnostic system in terms of triggering the Passlock fault itself, understanding your vehicle’s systems is crucial for troubleshooting. While an OBD2 scanner won’t specifically diagnose a Passlock bypass need, it is essential for checking for other underlying issues that might be contributing to electrical system problems.
Symptoms of Passlock 2 Problems in a 2012 Colorado
Before attempting a bypass, it’s important to recognize the common symptoms of a Passlock 2 malfunction in your 2012 Colorado:
- Security light illuminated: The security light on your dashboard may stay on or blink erratically.
- No-start condition: The engine cranks but fails to start, even when the battery and starter are functioning correctly.
- Intermittent starting issues: The vehicle starts sometimes but fails to start at other times without any apparent reason.
- Long crank times: The engine takes longer than usual to start.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms in your 2012 Colorado, and suspect a Passlock issue, the following bypass method, while not a permanent solution, can help you regain temporary vehicle operation. Remember, this is a DIY approach and understanding the electrical system is important. Always consult a professional mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.
DIY Passlock 2 Bypass Procedure for 2012 Colorado (Resistor Method)
Disclaimer: This procedure involves modifying your vehicle’s electrical system. Proceed with caution and at your own risk. Incorrect wiring can damage your vehicle. If you are not comfortable working with automotive electrical systems, consult a qualified mechanic.
This method involves installing a resistor to simulate the correct resistance value that the Passlock 2 system expects to see.
Steps:
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Locate the Passlock Wires: In your 2012 Colorado, locate the wires coming from the ignition cylinder. You’re looking for a set of three wires that are often bundled together. Common color combinations include:
- Orange/Black, Red/White, and Black
- Yellow, Red/White, and Black
These colors may vary, so consulting a wiring diagram specific to your 2012 Colorado is highly recommended for accurate identification.
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Prepare the Orange/Black (or Yellow) Wire: Identify the Orange/Black wire (or Yellow wire if that’s what you have). Carefully cut this wire. Strip a small amount of insulation from both cut ends. This will allow you to reconnect the wire later if needed.
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Prepare the Black Ground Wire: Locate the Black wire (ground reference wire). Carefully strip a small section of insulation from this wire to expose the copper conductor. Be careful not to cut the wire completely.
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Measure Resistance: Set your multimeter to read Ohms (Ω). Connect one probe of the multimeter to the exposed copper of the Black wire. Connect the other probe to the ignition side of the Orange/Black (or Yellow) wire you cut in step 2 (the end going towards the ignition barrel, not the Passlock module).
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Crank the Starter and Record Resistance: While holding the probes in place, have someone briefly crank the engine. Observe and note the resistance reading on your multimeter. This is the resistance value you need to replicate with resistors.
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Assemble Resistors: Based on the resistance value you measured, combine one or more resistors in series to achieve a value within 5% of your measured reading. You can find resistors at electronics stores or online.
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Connect the Resistor to the Black Wire: Tightly wrap one end of your resistor combination around the exposed copper of the Black wire. For a more secure and reliable connection, soldering is recommended. After connecting, insulate the connection thoroughly with electrical tape to prevent shorts.
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Connect the Resistor to the Cut Wire (Module Side): Connect the other end of the resistor combination to the cut end of the Orange/Black (or Yellow) wire that leads towards the Passlock module (not towards the ignition barrel). Securely connect and insulate this connection with electrical tape as well.
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Insulate the Ignition Barrel Side Wire: Make sure to insulate the exposed cut end of the Orange/Black (or Yellow) wire that leads back to the ignition barrel to prevent any shorts.
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Test the Bypass: Attempt to start your 2012 Colorado. If the connections are correct and the resistor value is within the acceptable range, the Passlock system should be bypassed, and your vehicle should start.
OBD2 System and Diagnostics on Your 2012 Colorado
While bypassing the Passlock 2 system can get your 2012 Colorado running again, it’s crucial to understand that this is a bypass, not a repair. The underlying issue causing the Passlock malfunction may still exist.
Your 2012 Colorado is equipped with an OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) system. This system monitors various aspects of your vehicle’s performance and can store diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) when problems are detected. While OBD2 scanners won’t directly tell you about a Passlock system failure in the same way it would for an engine misfire, it’s still a valuable tool.
After performing the Passlock bypass, it’s advisable to use an OBD2 scanner to check for any stored DTCs in your 2012 Colorado’s computer. This can reveal other potential issues that may be related to or contributing to your electrical problems. Addressing these underlying issues is important for the long-term reliability of your vehicle. The OBD2 plugs in your 2012 Colorado are typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
Important Considerations and Alternatives
- This bypass is a temporary fix: It disables the anti-theft function of the Passlock 2 system. Your vehicle will be more vulnerable to theft.
- Consult a professional: For a permanent and reliable solution, it’s always recommended to have your 2012 Colorado diagnosed and repaired by a qualified automotive technician. They can pinpoint the root cause of the Passlock problem, which could be a faulty ignition switch, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning Passlock sensor.
- Safety Precautions: Work in a well-lit and safe environment. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components to prevent accidental shorts.
- Wiring Diagrams: Always refer to the specific wiring diagrams for your 2012 Colorado to ensure accurate wire identification.
Conclusion
Bypassing the Passlock 2 system in your 2012 Colorado using a resistor can be a temporary solution to get you back on the road. However, it’s not a substitute for proper diagnosis and repair. Understanding the role of OBD2 plugs and diagnostic systems in your vehicle is crucial for comprehensive vehicle maintenance. Use an OBD2 scanner to check for other codes and consult a professional mechanic to address the underlying Passlock issue and ensure the security and reliability of your 2012 Colorado.
