I've learned more about cars in the last 2-3 months than I have my whole life.

So here’s what’s wrong with my car: 

Apparently, they couldn’t get the car to not start, and therefore couldn’t 100% diagnose the problem. They tried throughout the day and ran tests and read codes, but still cannot be certain. They think its something with the security sensor, which is apparently very common in GMs, and especially, Impalas (go figure). Basically, its malfunctioning, and instead of identifying my key as the right key (which, it is), its freaking out and locking the security systems, because it thinks I’m trying to steal the car.

I mean, I can’t complain. That is a handy dandy useful ass system for someone that doesn’t really have any type of car alarm or better security system in the car (aka, me). But it shouldn’t malfunction.

Since neither my father or I were paying too much attention when it wouldn’t start the other day (I think we were both just pretty pissed off about it) we weren’t sure if the security light on the dash went on and stayed on or not. If it had, this definitely would have been the problem. The guy told us if the car won’t start, the light comes on, stays on, and flashes, then yes. That’s the problem. 

Apparently there’s a way around this issue, to reset and re-code things, ish. Basically, you turn the key in and if it doesn’t start, the security light will flash. If you keep the battery on and let the light flash for 10-15 minutes, it will then stop flashing and become solidly on. This means it has reset and the security feature has stopped. Simply turn the key the rest to start up the engine as you would normally. And viola. Your car should start (if that’s the actual problem). Obviously though, that is some annoyance on the battery, and isn’t a permanent fix, and is especially annoying if you have somewhere to be…

The guy was REALLY nice about my car, having been going back to it and looking at it all day. Regardless of the “mandatory $40 inspection fee” sign behind the desk, he didn’t charge us for bringing the car in. He explained he’s pretty positive that this diagnosis is accurate, but understands that we don’t want to spend money getting it fixed until we see that security light and know for sure, this is the problem. He probably also didn’t charge us because he is so certain that’s the problem, and therefore, is pretty certain we’ll be back in a few days/weeks to get it fixed anyway. He gave us all the info about the parts, and how much it would ultimately cost to repair it. Somewhere just above $400. Guh.

What is money and why does mine keep disappearing?