P1626 on 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am — Theft Deterrent Fuel Enable Signal Lost
1 vehicles · 1 makes · $250-$550 repair
Most Reported On
P1626 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning “Theft Deterrent Fuel Enable Signal Lost.” This is a manufacturer-specific (commonly GM) anti-theft code indicating that the fuel-enable signal from the theft-deterrent system was lost or not received by the engine control module. As a security measure, the immobilizer or body control module must send a valid signal authorizing the ECM to deliver fuel; without it, the ECM disables fueling so a stolen vehicle cannot be driven. The result is usually an engine that cranks but will not start, often with a security light on. It generally points to a security-system communication or authentication problem rather than a fuel or engine mechanical fault. This code is most commonly reported on 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am, with repair costs ranging from $250 to $550.
Common Causes
Typical Repair Cost
Based on 1 documented vehicle-specific issues. Actual cost depends on root cause and vehicle.
Diagnostic Tools
To diagnose P1626, you'll need an OBD-II scanner. Here are our recommendations at every price point.
ANCEL AD310 Classic OBD-II Scanner
by ANCEL
A simple, affordable code reader that reads and clears check engine codes. Great for quick diagnostics on any OBD-II vehicle (1996+).
- Read & clear engine codes
- View freeze frame data
- I/M readiness status
- No batteries or app needed
BlueDriver Pro Bluetooth Scanner
by BlueDriver
Bluetooth OBD-II scanner with a free companion app. Provides enhanced diagnostics, smog readiness, and repair reports sourced from a database of verified fixes.
- Enhanced diagnostics (ABS, SRS, transmission)
- Repair Reports with verified fixes
- Smog check readiness
- Free app (iOS & Android)
LAUNCH CRP123X OBD-II Scanner
by LAUNCH
A professional-grade handheld scanner that reads all four major systems (engine, transmission, ABS, SRS) with live data streaming and graphing.
- Engine, transmission, ABS, SRS diagnostics
- Live data stream & graphing
- AutoVIN for vehicle identification
- Free lifetime updates via Wi-Fi
Autel MaxiCOM MK808S Diagnostic Tool
by Autel
Shop-level diagnostic tablet with bi-directional control, active tests, and full system coverage. Ideal for serious DIYers and small shops.
- All-system diagnostics (25+ modules)
- Bi-directional control & active tests
- Oil reset, EPB, BMS, TPMS, injector coding
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android OS
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FAQ
What does P1626 mean?
P1626 stands for "Theft Deterrent Fuel Enable Signal Lost." This is a manufacturer-specific (commonly GM) anti-theft code indicating that the fuel-enable signal from the theft-deterrent system was lost or not received by the engine control module. As a security measure, the immobilizer or body control module must send a valid signal authorizing the ECM to deliver fuel; without it, the ECM disables fueling so a stolen vehicle cannot be driven. The result is usually an engine that cranks but will not start, often with a security light on. It generally points to a security-system communication or authentication problem rather than a fuel or engine mechanical fault.
What are the most common causes of P1626?
The most common causes of P1626 are: Communication fault between the body control module and ECM, Faulty or unrecognized key/transponder or immobilizer issue, Damaged wiring or connectors in the theft-deterrent circuit, Faulty body control module (BCM), Faulty or improperly programmed engine control module, Loss of power or ground to a security-system module, Modules not properly relearned after a battery or part replacement. The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P1626?
Repair costs for P1626 range from $250 to $550, depending on the vehicle and root cause.
Which vehicles are affected by P1626?
Au7o has documented P1626 across 1 vehicle models from 1 manufacturers: Pontiac.
Sources (5)
- article2003 Pontiac Grand Am Passlock Problem, Won't Start And Security Light Is Blinking: 25 Complaints
- ForumSecurity light on Pontiac Grand Am — Car Talk Community (2004 Grand Am, Passlock ignition switch failure)
- ForumPontiac Grand Am Security Passlock Problems — Edmunds Car Forums (23+ pages)
- articleNo Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor: Pontiac Grand Am Electrical System — RepairPal
- NHTSANHTSA complaints, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am — multiple ODI records for Passlock/security-light no-start (10898347, 10622496, 10503032, 10726457)
Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.