My car has a message that says, Theft system problem, car may not start. My mechanic has tried changing the dash computer, and has checked several of the modules in the car, but it still will not start. I have even had a new key made, but it still won't start. What do I do next?

Resetting the system after an ignition switch and key computer change in a 2009 Subaru Outback may involve several steps. Here are some general steps that you can try:
**1. Check Fuses: Verify that all relevant fuses are intact. A blown fuse could be causing issues with the dash lights and fuel pump. Consult your vehicle's manual to locate the fuse box and check the appropriate fuses related to the dashboard and fuel pump.
**2. Security System Reset: Sometimes, a change in the ignition system can trigger the vehicle's security system. Try resetting the security system by locking and unlocking the doors using the key fob. If your vehicle has an immobilizer system, make sure the new key is programmed correctly.
**3. Battery Disconnect: Disconnect the vehicle's battery for about 15-30 minutes. This can help reset various systems in the car. After reconnecting the battery, start the car and check if the issues persist.
**4. ECU (Engine Control Unit) Reset: If the engine control unit was replaced or modified, you may need to perform an ECU reset. This typically involves disconnecting the battery, turning on the ignition (without starting the engine) for a few seconds, turning it off, and then reconnecting the battery.
**5. Reprogramming Keys: If new keys were added or the computer was changed, make sure that the new keys are programmed correctly to the vehicle's anti-theft system. Refer to your vehicle's manual or contact the dealership for guidance on key programming.
**6. Consult a Professional: If the issues persist after attempting these steps, it's advisable to consult a professional mechanic or contact the Subaru dealership for assistance. They may have specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and address issues related to the ignition system and key computer.
Remember to exercise caution when working with electrical components in your vehicle, and if you're not comfortable performing these steps, seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or Subaru service center.

When the car is off, a slowly flashing anti-theft light is normal. When the key is in one of the on positions, that light should go off. If it thinks it detects a theft condition, the light will flash quite rapidly and prevent starting. You can also check the mileage readings in the odometer display. If you see dashes instead of numbers, that is a clue that some part of the onboard computer has gone wacky.

You already tried one of the steps that I would recommend (unlocking the door, though that may not be enough by itself. Here are a couple of things to try.

First, pray that this isn't the anti-theft computer gone awry. That is uber expensive to replace. Following that prayer ...

Verify that the battery is fully charged and showing about 12.8 volts with the headlights off and about 12 volts with headlights on. If the voltages are low, try jumping the battery to see if you can get it to start. (A low battery can occasionally cause an anit-theft fault.)

If you have another key, try that one. The chip in the first key may have gone bad. If that doesn't work ...

Disconnect the battery negative cable for 5 minutes. Reconnect, and lock and unlock the doors several times with the remote. Check to see if the anti-theft light is still flashing rapidly. If not, try starting.

Anything more than these steps will need to be handled by a qualified shop. (For example, a wire in the steering column could be damaged by the tilt mechanism, or the computer malfunctioning).

Good luck.

use the remote to lock/unlock half a dozen times otherwise unhook the radio.

These vehicles are known for faulty antitheft systems. When they start to fail, the car turns off the fuel injectors as a theft deterrent. Next time it stalls, look for a light on the dash that says SECURITY or ANTITHEFT. If you see this light, this link will help you.

http://vatspasslockpasskeysecurityhelp.yolasite.com/

sometimes the cars anti theft can shut down the starter and/or the injectors. This might be your problem, especially after changing the ignition this problem is more common. The ignition is part of the antitheft security system. Check out this link for info and solutions. http://vatspasslockpasskeysecurityhelp.yolasite.com/

no... no power to anything means like the headlights are inop and such

in that case its a battery or battery cable issue

assuming you have headlights and power to accessories and the vehicle still will not start AND the theft light is flashing then YES your anti-theft system is trying to keep the car from what it thinks is a theft issue

simply pressing the unlock button on your remotes will resolve this

assuming you do not have the remotes then you will need the anti-theft computers reprogrammed at a dealer or good garage

keep us posted

There are no saturn dealers any more . Take it to Chevy , buick , or cadillac dealer .
can not reset the computer. ?????? There is no reset for ant-theft system . Is the security light on ? Have codes read ,fixing the problem will turn off the light an reset the system .

u need the owners manual. it tells how to change the theft deterrent system.

I have had the key cylinder changed twice on my 96 Buick Skylark Grand Sport and still having the same trouble. The car will start, it runs for about 3 seconds and shuts off with the theft system light on. I have reset the computer time and again and the car WILL run great for a day or two and then it gets back into the same routine. Is there a way to bypass the theft system? If so... PLEASE help me out before I take a hammer to it.

THE THEFT ALARM WILL NOT ALARM THE VEHICLE TO CRANK OVER, ITS SOMETHING MECHANICAL JUST OCCURED AT THE TIME U INSTALLED THE RADIO, THE FACTORY SYSTEM IS BUILT INTO THE KEY FOR FORDS, TRY THE SPARE KEY,CHECK ALL FUSES UNDER THE HOOD AND UNDER THE DASH U MAY HAVE BROWN A FUSE AS WELL