Buick Regal: DTC B3976

Diagnostic Instructions

• Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
• Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
• Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC B3976

Unconfigured Transponder

For symptom byte information, refer to Symptom Byte List.

Circuit/System Description

Without BTM and/or ATH/ATS

When an ignition key is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder and the ignition is switched ON, the transponder embedded in the key is energized by the exciter coil surrounding the ignition lock cylinder.

The transponder transmits a signal to the immobilizer control module. The immobilizer control module translates this signal to a serial data message which is sent to the body control module (BCM). The BCM then compares this value to a value stored in memory. If the value is correct, the BCM will send the prerelease password via the serial data circuit to the engine control module (ECM). If the learned key code does not match or a transponder value is not received, the BCM will send the start disable password to the ECM.

With BTM and/or ATH/ATS

When a ignition key is inserted into the key pocket/slot and the ignition mode switch is pressed, the transponder embedded in the key is energized by the immobilizer antenna exciter coil. The transponder transmits a signal to the immobilizer control module. The immobilizer control module translates this signal to a serial data message which is sent to the body control module (BCM). The BCM then compares this value to a value stored in memory. If the value is correct, the BCM will send the prerelease password via the serial data circuit to the engine control module (ECM). If the learned key code does not match or a transponder value is not received, the BCM will send the start disable password to the ECM.

Conditions for Running the DTC

• Ignition is in the Accessory or Run position.
• The BCM is in the learn coded key state.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The BCM has determined the current key is not configured as a proper vehicle key.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

• Vehicle starting will be disabled.
• The security indicator in the instrument cluster will be illuminated. A service message will be displayed in the driver information center.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

• A current DTC will be cleared when the BCM detects a properly configured vehicle key.
• A history DTC will be cleared after 100 malfunction-free ignition cycles.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Immobilizer Wiring Schematics

Connector End View Reference

COMPONENT CONNECTOR END VIEW INDEX

Master Electrical Component List

Description and Operation

Immobilizer Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information.

Circuit/System Verification

1. Verify the engine starts with each available key.

• If the engine does not start with a key

Replace the key.

• Go to next step: If the engine starts with all keys

2. All OK.

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