GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC P0633 : Theft Deterrent Key Not Programmed

Diagnostic Fault Information

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit/System Description

When learning the pre-release password, as well as the challenge and response sequence, the engine control module (ECM) is placed in learn mode. DTC P0633 will set automatically as an indicator that the system is in learn mode and not as a fault indicator. Once the password and challenge/response are learned, learn mode will be exited when the engine is successfully started. At this point, the DTC will be cleared. If the ECM does not exit learn mode, P0633 will remain current and indicate a fault.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The ECM is in learn mode.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

DTC  P0633 will set any time the ECM enters learn mode.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

The security indicator will illuminate.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A current DTC P0633 will be cleared upon a successful engine start signaling the exit of learn mode.
    • A history DTC will be cleared after 40 malfunction free ignition cycles or when a scan tool is used to clear DTCs.

Diagnostic Aids

The "key" referenced in the DTC descriptor does not refer to the vehicle key. In this case, "key" is referring to the challenge response.

DTC P0633 requires a successful engine start to exit the learn procedure and clear the DTC. If an unrelated malfunction exists that causes engine starting to be disabled or otherwise unavailable, learn mode will not exit and DTC P0633 will remain current. In this situation, the cause of the inoperative engine starting must be corrected before diagnosing DTC P0633.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Theft Deterrent System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Theft Deterrent System Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Vehicle Theft Deterrent (VTD) Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Circuit/System Verification

Important: Because of normal system communications between the TDM and ECM, any theft deterrent B-codes must be diagnosed prior to the diagnosis of P-codes.

DTC P0633 will clear upon a successful engine start. Any malfunction that will cause a no-start condition will prevent DTC P0633 from clearing. Prior to diagnosing DTC P0633, ensure that all power moding and engine control systems are operating properly and all conditions that may cause a no-start have been corrected.

  1. Ignition in the CRANK position, verify the scan tool Ignition Run/Crank parameter is Active.
  2. If not the specified value, refer to Power Mode Mismatch .
  3. Perform the Programming Theft Deterrent System Components procedure. Refer to Programming Theft Deterrent System Components . The vehicle should start, the ECM should exit learn mode, and DTC P0633 should clear.
  4. If the ECM does not complete the learn or vehicle starting remains disabled, replace the ECM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for ECM replacement, setup, and programming.