GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC B3055: No Transponder Modulation or No Transponder

Diagnostic Fault Information

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle .

Circuit/System Description

When an ignition key is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder and the ignition is switched ON, the transponder embedded in the head of the key is energised by the exciter coils surrounding the ignition lock cylinder. The energised transponder transmits a signal that contains its unique value, which is received by the theft deterrent module (TDM). The TDM then compares this value to a value stored in memory. This stored value is the learned key code. If the value is correct, the TDM will send the start enable password via the serial data circuit to the engine control module (ECM). If either the transponders unique value or the calculation to the challenge is incorrect, the TDM will send the start disable password to the ECM.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition is in the ACC or ON position.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The TDM is unable to measure the ignition key transponder value.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • Vehicle starting will disable.
    • The security warning lamp will illuminate.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A current DTC will clear when the TDM detects a valid transponder value from the ignition key.
    • A history DTC will clear after 100 fault-free ignition cycles.
    • The DTC can be cleared using a scan tool.

Reference Information

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References

Circuit/System Testing

Important: When using this diagnostic, more than one vehicle key is required to ensure correct diagnosis. If more than one key is not available at the time of service, contact the customer and ask if any other keys can be provided for service. If unavailable, a new second key can be created.

  1. Inspect all available vehicle keys that they are correct vehicle keys.
  2. If not a correct vehicle key, replace the key.
  3. While viewing DTCs using a scan tool, attempt to start the vehicle using all of the available keys. The vehicle should start with all available keys.
  4. If only one key results in inoperative starting and DTC B3055 is set as current, replace the suspect key.
    If all available keys result in inoperative starting and DTC B3055 is set as current, replace the TDM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification .

    •  Replacing Keys
    •  Adding Keys
    •  Control Module References .