GM V.A.T.S Information
(Vehicle Anti-Theft System)

Before You Start:

1. Do the V.A.T.S. interface LAST! After the Autostarter is completely wired, you can test it by inserting the key in the ignition. All the car needs to see in order to start, is the resistance in the key. This way, you know there is no problem with the Autostarter itself.
   
2. Measure the key from side-to-side, through the resistor in the key. You can use an analog multi-meter or a digital. GO WITH YOUR FIRST READING! Do not touch the key with your hand during this process, as this will cause a false reading.
   
3. If you are not using a DTI V.A.T.S. (Part number 20041), make sure the relay you use has 5 pins, and that the middle pin is 87A. If the middle pin is a plain 87, THE RELAY WILL NOT WORK!

Locating V.A.T.S. Wires

V.A.T.S. wires are very small, usually 22 AWG. They are always found together in a small tube. This tube, wires inside and all, is still only about 14 AWG in size. This little tube will have a ridge up the middle because it has the V.A.T.S. wires molded inside. Usually the tube is WHITE or ORANGE, although in some older cars, it will be BLACK. The V.A.T.S. wires run right down the steering column from the ignition key cylinder. After that, they head over to the V.A.T.S. module, found behind the glovebox in many cars.

Troubleshooting V.A.T.S.-After You Are Finished

If you have completed the installation of a V.A.T.S. interface, and the car will not start with the Autostarter, you need to begin troubleshooting your set-up.

1. Does the relay click? It should be active whenever the AutoCommand has started and is running the car.
   
2. Have you paid close attention to the V.A.T.S. diagram? When you have cut the V.A.T.S. wire (only one needs to be cut, the resistor is attached to the other one), make sure that the side of the wire coming from the ignition key side is going to pin 87A. Make sure the starter relay, or, column side is going to pin 30. If these two wires are reversed, the set-up will not work.
   
3. Try temporarily installing the resistor you have chosen, directly across the V.A.T.S. wires in the car. This will tell you if the resistor value is correct.
   
4. Try starting the car with the ignition key. This will tell you if you are using the right relay and if you have it wired correctly.
   
5. Finally, are your connections good? The V.A.T.S. wires are very small, and sometimes connecting them is tough. This is a case where if you do not solder your wires, it will come back to haunt you.