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"starting disabled theft problem"

113049 Views 48 Replies 28 Participants Last post by  Submariner409
Ok so I have the 2005 3.6l sts I got my new engine in today and it says "starting disabled theft problem" I have tried everything I seen on this site about disabling it. As far as putting the key in the door, pressing the button on the FOB...none of those are working. The FOBs do lock and unlock the doors, radio and everything works it just wont start for me and the message wont go away. UGH I really just want her back on the road lol. How do I fully/completely reset this system. Any help or Advise is need. Thanks ALL.
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I know on the 4.6L it's the silver can mounted at the left front corner of the engine with three large electrical connectors attached. I believe the 3.6L is similar. If you didn't use the one originally in your car, that will be the cause of your problem.
Hello friends.

I try make this procedure on my STS 2007 but it is not solve my problem.
1. After switch ON indicator "LOCK" is blinking, not light; is it correct ?
2. Time interval 10 min strong or it can be from 9 to 12 min?

Help pls
The fob matching procedure has 3 counts down from 10 displayed on the DIC, for a total of 30 minutes, before calling for the first fob. Don't forget to press 'Lock' on each fob to complete that fob.

I urge you to get the correct procedure for your car before attempting to match fobs.

The STS cannot be started without a matched fob. Pressing Lock & then Unlock on a matched fob should reset any Theft Alert & unlock the Drivers Door (more doors may depend on config.)
I've had this problem for years..I usually disconnect the positive cable and reconnect till I hear it reprogram...please tell me how you fixed it
Thank you very much!!!
Replaced a failed RCDLR and NO start due to security.
Followed your posted instructions, worked flawless first time!
Instructions could not have been clearer, well done,
Thanks Again, your the Man! KingMack :thumbsup:
Hi I was wondering if you can tell me how to take my 06 Cadillac STS out of theft mode
Just had this issue with 2007 sts. Discovered the battery had a bad cell and was causing this error as well as causing the car to shift oddly.
Battery initially checked ok, but with further shop testing, tester stated replace. Replaced battery, no more issues.
PROBLEM SOLVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Was a simple fix but kinda long took 30mins but simple. If anyone else has this problem feel free to message me it wasnt hard at all. Anyone can do it themselves. Thank you everyone that helped out with this crazy problem.
I need help getting my key relearned. I tried letting the ignition stay on for 10 minute intervals for 30 minutes and the security light went off but when finished it stay said starting disabled theft problem how can I fix it?
I need help getting my key relearned. I tried letting the ignition stay on for 10 minute intervals for 30 minutes and the security light went off but when finished it stay said starting disabled theft problem how can I fix it?
maybe someone will see your question and chime in. This is an old thread and Kingmack hasn't been on in three years.
I hope so because I’m lost right now. I tried the 30 minute relearn process and timed it to a t but it still in theft mode
Hold the off button on ignition for like a minute

Swap battery out on fob also
Scroll through info and look at battery voltage if its under 12.5 thats probably the issue. 99% of the time this occurs because you need a new battery or you drained the battery down by sitting or leaving something on. Go get battery tested at a batteries plus or replace battery and see if you still get the error..
For anyone reading this I looked online and couldn't find a solution anywhere for a 2006-2011 STS- SO WHAT I DID. I had my fob in the arm rest slot for about 15 minutes after several attempts of trying to start the car it hit me perhaps it needs a signal directly from the fob so I pulled it out held the start up button and THEN pressed the ignition and BAM it started up.
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For anyone reading this I looked online and couldn't find a solution anywhere for a 2006-2011 STS- SO WHAT I DID. I had my fob in the arm rest slot for about 15 minutes after several attempts of trying to start the car it hit me perhaps it needs a signal directly from the fob so I pulled it out held the start up button and THEN pressed the ignition and BAM it started up.
If you end up getting it again. Test the car battery. Once it starts to lose voltage the receiver isn't strong enough to receive transmitter. Also replace fob batteries they go quick in these cars.
PROBLEM SOLVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Was a simple fix but kinda long took 30mins but simple. If anyone else has this problem feel free to message me it wasnt hard at all. Anyone can do it themselves. Thank you everyone that helped out with this crazy problem.
Please msg me and let me know how to fix this.
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Ok so I have the 2005 3.6l sts I got my new engine in today and it says "starting disabled theft problem" I have tried everything I seen on this site about disabling it. As far as putting the key in the door, pressing the button on the FOB...none of those are working. The FOBs do lock and unlock the doors, radio and everything works it just wont start for me and the message wont go away. UGH I really just want her back on the road lol. How do I fully/completely reset this system. Any help or Advise is need. Thanks ALL.
What did u figure out

PROBLEM SOLVED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Was a simple fix but kinda long took 30mins but simple. If anyone else has this problem feel free to message me it wasnt hard at all. Anyone can do it themselves. Thank you everyone that helped out with this crazy problem.
I need the answer please!!!
He hasn't logged in for 4.5 years.
30 minute solution sounds like the 30 minute antitheft relearn procedure.

30-Minute Relearn Procedure
Use this procedure after replacing any of the following components:
  • Remote control door lock receiver (RCDLR)
  • The engine control module (ECM) if previously installed in another vehicle
  1. Press the START button.
IMPORTANT: This procedure is not available on vehicles equipped with EXPORT configured modules.

  1. Observe the Security indicator. After approximately 10 minutes the indicator will turn off.
  2. Turn OFF the ignition, and wait 5 seconds .
  3. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times for a total of 3 cycles or 30 minutes .
  4. Start the vehicle. The module being programmed has now learned the RCDLR password.
IMPORTANT: The vehicle learns the password on the transition from OFF to CRANK. You must turn the ignition OFF before attempting to start the vehicle.

  1. With a scan tool, clear any DTCs.
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Ok so I have the 2005 3.6l sts I got my new engine in today and it says "starting disabled theft problem" I have tried everything I seen on this site about disabling it. As far as putting the key in the door, pressing the button on the FOB...none of those are working. The FOBs do lock and unlock the doors, radio and everything works it just wont start for me and the message wont go away. UGH I really just want her back on the road lol. How do I fully/completely reset this system. Any help or Advise is need. Thanks ALL.
So idiot what's the damn problem? Instead of thinking you sound smarter than you are! Simple! Answer the damn question!
this happened to me, it happened when you try to jumpstart the car and it's still low (or is not able to) A low voltage can cause this. Tried jumpstarting with a truck (higher amp) and it worked, my harbor freight booster is not capable.
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