P1626 on Chevrolet
Theft Deterrent Fuel Enable Signal Lost
P1626 on Chevrolet vehicles indicates theft deterrent fuel enable signal lost. Au7o has documented this code across 2 Chevrolet models — most commonly on Corvette, Impala. 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. Typical repair costs on Chevrolet range from $100 to $900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P1626
- •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
P1626 on Chevrolet by Model
Chevrolet Corvette(1 issue)
- C5 Electronic Steering Column Lock Failure1997-1999
Early C5s use an electronic Column Lock mechanism as part of the anti-theft system (fitted to 1997-2004 manual cars and 1997-2000 automatics). The mechanism and its electronics fail with age; when the column fails to unlock at key-on the PCM disables fuel and the car will not drive (or displays 'Service Column Lock'/'Pull Key, Wait Ten Seconds' on the DIC). In some cases the column can lock unexpectedly. It is one of the best-known early-C5 gremlins and is the subject of GM service bulletins and a recall/special policy.
Chevrolet Impala(1 issue)
- Passlock Security System No-Start Condition2000-2005
The Passlock anti-theft system causes intermittent no-start conditions where the security light flashes and the fuel pump is disabled. The ignition lock cylinder contains a Hall-effect sensor that reads a resistance value; when contacts wear or corrode, the BCM detects a mismatch and locks out fuel delivery. The problem typically worsens progressively from occasional to daily. 225+ complaints were filed for the 2002 model year alone.
Looking for P1626 on a different make?
View P1626 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P1626 mean on Chevrolet?▼
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. On Chevrolet specifically, this code is documented across 2 models.
What causes P1626 on Chevrolet vehicles?▼
Common causes on Chevrolet: 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. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P1626 on a Chevrolet?▼
Repair costs on Chevrolet range from $100 to $900, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Chevrolet models have P1626 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P1626 on 2 Chevrolet models: Corvette, Impala.