P1626Manufacturer-specific code

P1626 Code: Theft Deterrent Fuel Enable Signal Not Received (GM)

On General Motors vehicles (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac), the P1626 code means the computer did not receive the fuel enable signal from the theft deterrent system. The engine starts and then shuts off, and the security light is on or blinking.

Severity
High
Can I keep driving?
No, stop and have it checked
Estimated cost
$0 to $350
Difficulty
Medium
System
Computer and Outputs
Applies to
Depends on the manufacturer

Common in: Chevrolet

Updated Reviewed by Renzo Chacca

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What the P1626 code means

P1626 is a manufacturer-specific code: the 1 in the second position means each automaker defines what it means, not the generic SAE standard. The most widespread definition is the one used by General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac). If your vehicle is another brand, confirm the code text with a scan tool that supports that manufacturer.

ManufacturerMeaning of P1626
General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac)Theft deterrent fuel enable signal not received

The GM theft deterrent system (Passlock or Passkey) checks the key and sends the computer a fuel enable signal.

The computer sets the P1626 code when it does not receive that signal: the engine starts and shuts off within a few seconds.

Before you start repairs, confirm the make, model, year and engine. With manufacturer codes, the same number can change even between engines from the same brand.

P1626 code symptoms

  • The engine starts and then shuts off.
  • Security light on or blinking.

Likely causes of the P1626 code

  1. Passlock sensor in the ignition cylinder. Very frequent.
  2. Damaged key or chip. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  3. Communication with the body module. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.
  4. Weak battery. Confirm it with the tests in the diagnosis section.

How to diagnose the P1626 code step by step

  1. Read the body module codes.
  2. Do the 10 minute or 30 minute relearn depending on the model.
  3. Inspect the ignition cylinder.

How to fix the P1626 code

  • Perform the theft deterrent relearn.
  • Replace the cylinder sensor.

Technical reference data

  • The relearn usually consists of leaving the ignition on for 10 minutes until the light goes out, three times.
  • P1xxx codes are manufacturer-specific: confirm the definition with a scan tool that supports your brand.
  • Reference values: check the manufacturer data for your vehicle.

Brand-specific notes

On these vehicles the relearn costs nothing and fixes a good share of cases, so try it before you buy a sensor.

P1626 on GM

Very common on the Chevrolet Malibu, Cavalier, Impala, Trailblazer and Silverado.

If your vehicle is another brand, check the table above for the meaning its manufacturer gives this code and confirm it with a compatible scan tool.

Frequently asked questions about P1626

What does the P1626 code mean on a GM?
It means the computer did not receive the fuel enable signal from the theft deterrent system. The security light is on or blinking.
Does P1626 mean the same thing on every brand?
No. It is a manufacturer-specific code, so on other brands it may not exist or may mean something different. Confirm it with a scan tool that supports your make.
Can I drive with a P1626 code?
No. With a P1626 code the engine does not stay running, so the vehicle cannot be driven until the theft deterrent problem is fixed.
How much does it cost to fix P1626?
Roughly $0 to $350 on a GM. The relearn is free if you do it yourself, while a new cylinder sensor costs more.
Will a P1626 code clear itself?
Sometimes, after a successful relearn. If the Passlock sensor or the key is bad, the problem returns.
What is the most common cause of P1626?
The Passlock sensor in the ignition cylinder. A damaged key or chip, the body module communication and a weak battery come next.

Related codes

Questions about the P1626 code

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