First, I created an account on this site just for this problem because I've been searching for answers and I was getting nothing and i know someone on here has had the same problem as I am having now.

Info:
1994 V6 Camaro

No work performance wise (it's my gfs car)

So, the other day i decided to finally work on my gf's camaro and install a new sound system, since her stock was blown and only worked in one of her rear speakers.

After installing the speakers, i moved to the head unit and god, im glad i own a mustang because replacing a head unit on a camaro is a nightmare.

Anyways, install everything and BAM! Car wont start. Thought maybe the battery was dead so i tried to jump it...nothing. Then the car starts to blink and whatnot. come to find out i might have tripped the cars VATS.

I call a couple of my buddies up who work on cars and they told me it could be multiple things...starting with (i didnt disconnect the battery during install)

I did. Before anyone on here thinks i didnt...i did lol that's step 1

Anyways, after hours of trying to figure out the problem. I just started searching online and finally gave in to getting on to a forum and hoping someone can help me out.

One of my buddies suggested that since its a 94 and late model cars dont really reset like newer models...the new headunit isn't registering and i might need to get an adapter. He told me to first reinstall the old head unit and see if that fixes the problem and if so, then it would just be a simple purchase of an adapter at a local audio shop and i should be good.

Has anyone had to deal with this before? If so, how'd you fix it? Please let me know.

Thanks.

 

Does the security light come on?

I never had a problem installing my aftermarket radio nor do I think I disconnected the battery...something honestly I don't ever really do unless I'm welding on the car or dealing with fuel or where my hands would be near the fans.

 

Pull out the radio and take a look at the Theft Deterent Module (TDM) which is just to the right of the radio and is attached to the air bag bracket. That is what runs the VATS system and it may have gotten unplugged or damaged while doing the radio work. Also make sure no radio wires are spliced into the wires going to the TDM.

 

The stereo security system only effects the head unit not the car. The head unit sends a code to the BCM which gives the head unit a responding code which allows it to power up. If your factory head unit does not get the new code the screen simply says "lock" and nothing works.

I will agree that a 94 is a PITA to get the stereo out as you have to remove a bunch of the dash pieces to get there. The 97+ cars are much easier and only one trim piece needs to be removed and no tools needed to remove it. I cant say those little horseshoe radio removal tools are all that much fun to use on a Ford.

Massey

 

Assuming you have an automatic, smack your shifter forward and try to start, or try it in neutral. By moving things around with the dash and console, your shifter might not be going into the far forward position enough to activate the neutral safety switch on the trans.