2002 Grand am has a passlock problem. The security light started flashing and would not let the car star

Is the security light flashing? If so, you 've got trouble codes stored and it's probably the anti theft system

Need to turn off passlock - Chevrolet - iFixit

https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/.../Need+to+turn+off+passloc...

iFixitThose of you that have stalling problems, it is not passlock. ... traction fault on the display when it shuts down or won't start and have to wait my 10 min to restart.

GM Passlock Security Light Issues - RepairPal

repairpal.com/gm-passlock-security-light-issues

If you find yourself stranded, your engine won't start, and the security light is flashing, ... The most common repair is to replace the ignition lock cylinder or Passlock ... The warning light on the VATS system is similar except it does not have the ...

No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor : Pontiac Grand Am ...

repairpal.com > Problems > Pontiac > Grand Am

Why do think the key security is bad? If you still have a factory key, this is not the problem...if no factory key, you can take your VIN number or original key to GM dealer to get new key that they will program for you...Check for dirty battery connections:)

Depending on the year of vehicle how the security system works (you didn`t specify year or model). Older models up to 1997 use passlock I, they have a chip in the shaft of the key, and usually break in the steering column just behind the ignition key cylinder. You will need to know the code number of the key, and will have to order a new ignition cylinder and new keys. After 1997 its passlock II which has the chip inside the head of the key. It learns the code of the key and ensures its the correct key every time you start the car. The most likely problem with this system is the passlock sensor in the ignition switch. Try turning key to run (do not crank) leave key on for 10 minutes, the security light should be flashing. When it stops flashing or goes solid (after 10 min relearn) try to start again. If starts you will need the passlock sensor soon. It probably has a trouble code set in the BCM (body control computer).

Define "won't start". Won't crank? Cranks but won't fire up? Fires up then dies?

you can bypass the security system entirely. There is a great write-up here http://newrockies.ca. That was the only way to save my Park Avenue.

You need to replace the passlock module. It is located behind the ignition switch.

I discovered the hard way- ($85.00 later) Step 1: turn key to "on" position. step 2: open driver door. (security light should be flashing on and off) step 3: wait ten minutes with key in "on position and driver door open. step 4: when 10 minutes is up-(youll know-because security light will have stoped flashing after 10 minutes) close driver door ,turn key to "off" position, then turn key "on" to start. drives me crazy!! I have to do it to mine sometimes 2-5 times a day! GM doesnt have a fuel reset button etc. like fords do.

I have a 2002 Grand Am also. I had this same problem twice. The first time it happened, the battery was still working but was not strong enough to crank the car or make any noise under the hood at all. All electrical stuff worked though (lights, radio, etc). So i bought a new battery and everything was back to normal.

The 2nd time this happened, the passlock system was shot (the passlock system is a type of security device the car has installed in it.) When i inserted the key, everything worked, but nothing coming from the engine. I had to take the car to a dealership and get it replaced for around $400. If you look online you can find other ways to avoid the dealership and fix it yourself, but that could result in making something else not work as well.

Hope this helps in some way.

-Cody

It is your locks. I would just disconnect them and lock the car manually. Its a common problem on most GM cars cause water got in an rusted the auto lock motor cause them to send the wrong signal to the computer.